(WJET/WFXP) — The Erie Downtown Development Corporation has been awarded an $850,000 grant to restore a portion of the Flagship City Commons on North Park Row in downtown Erie.
The grant will convert the area into 40,000 square feet of retail and office space, according to a press release from State Representative Ryan Bizzarro Wednesday.
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“The Flagship City Commons has played an important role in bringing new life and opportunity to downtown Erie. It represents the kind of forward-thinking investment that helps communities thrive,” said Bizzarro. “Establishing a small business incubator in this highly-visible area will help create a space where entrepreneurs can turn their ideas into successful businesses, creating jobs and helping drive long-term economic growth for years to come.”
Flagship City Commons is currently home to restaurants, retail locations and office space. The portion of buildings on North Park Row is listed in the National Register of Historic Spaces and is currently under-utilized, the release stated.
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“A strong and vibrant downtown creates more than economic growth; it creates a ripple effect across the region. As Erie’s downtown continues to expand with new businesses and opportunities, surrounding communities will see the benefits through stronger commerce and increased tourism. This investment impacts the entire county,” Bizzarro added…