If you happen to occur to see Painesville Metropolis Supervisor Doug Lewis and ask him what’s occurring within the metropolis he helps to guide, be prepared to remain and hear for some time.
We provide that bit of recommendation for curious people, based mostly on all the things Lewis needed to say to an viewers throughout his 2023 State of the Metropolis handle.
He delivered that speech to group members, enterprise companions, metropolis workers and others throughout a March 9 breakfast on the Steele Mansion.
Lewis declared that “it’s occurring in Painesville” and mentioned the highlights from 2022 and looking forward to new retail choices, growth initiatives and facilities that residents can count on within the coming years.
“We’re off to a great begin and hope to maintain the ball rolling this yr,” Lewis stated.
Lewis highlighted the varied companies and group organizations that invested in Painesville in 2022, together with the choice by Avery Dennison’s Efficiency Tapes division so as to add 35,000 sq. toes to its Painesville plant.
“As one of many largest employers within the space, the enlargement reveals the corporate’s dedication to doing enterprise proper right here at house,” Lewis stated.
Clover Group opened its Heisley Park Senior Flats, with the town supervisor explaining that it presents 119 flats for seniors who need to keep in Painesville “with the conveniences of downsized dwelling.”
Federico Tire Professionals opened a “lovely new showroom” at its 71 S. State St. location, Lewis added, whereas Adam Craig of CLE Actual Property accomplished renovations on the former 113 Most important St. Greenback Financial institution constructing.
“Each have been unbelievable transformations in our downtown space,” he stated, noting that Craig and metropolis officers plan to show the Greenback Financial institution constructing into “workplace and business house.”
Town can also be getting ready for a brand new public restaurant on Painesville Sq., Lewis stated. It would come as a part of the incoming Lake Erie Faculty scholar housing, whereas streetscape enhancements will add “new lighting, concrete, bike racks and landscaping.”
“The aim is to create a welcoming setting for college kids and guests that coincides with our downtown grasp plan,” he stated.
Lewis additionally famous that work continues on the deliberate Grand River Stroll mixed-use growth overlooking the Grand River and Kiwanis Recreation Park. Lewis introduced that council authorised the switch of the 237 E. Most important St. property to the builders on March 6.
He added that the builders want to current remaining plans on the April 13 Planning Fee assembly, with work anticipated to be full by December 2024.
Lewis famous that the event is a part of the $75 million that has been invested in Downtown Painesville lately, with the town planning to create an leisure district.
In regard to infrastructure, the town accomplished $2.4 million of street and waterline work final yr, Lewis stated. Tasks final yr included Chestnut Avenue and Newell Avenue, in addition to the Chester Avenue repaving and waterline alternative that’s set to finish in August.
In the meantime, the town has put aside $1.9 million for its 2023 street plan.
Different notable gadgets talked about by Lewis in his speech included:
• Summer season live shows and group gatherings in 2022 noticed “file crowds,” whereas Painesville Sq. hosted its first Lake County NAACP Juneteenth celebration.
• Town additionally used federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to assist 12 “low- to median-income owners” that have been in violation of the town’s code enhance roofs and siding.
“The outcomes are dramatic, and this system helped to enhance property values in our group,” Lewis stated.
• In 2023, the town plans to work on a brand new splash pad at Kiwanis Recreation Park. He famous that the mission is presently within the design section, and the town estimates that will probably be accomplished in November.
Clearly, it’s an thrilling and eventful time proper now for the town of Painesville. The Information-Herald commends the town’s authorities leaders, enterprise homeowners, traders and residents who’ve performed key roles on this city’s many latest success tales.
