We’d all like to see noticeable progress in community projects, yet we often forget the effort and dedication needed for even small improvements. Patience may be a virtue but it’s not always easy to have; similar to repairs needing attention around our houses – hidden beneath wallpaper or tucked away under carpets – gaining tangible results from contributions can take time and lots of hard work!
One of the most visible and extensive projects in Venango County in recent years has been 100 Seneca Street, otherwise known as the Bank Building or Cornplanter Square. After sitting unoccupied for 20 years, the Venango County Economic Development Authority took ownership and began the significant task of renovating the building. Even the most optimistic timeline for a project of this size would anticipate it to take several years. Add to that a worldwide pandemic and the usual delays that a project with many players involved incurs, it may appear from the outside that little progress is being made.
Community building takes vision and often more time than we would like. The 100 Seneca Street renovation and local trail development are just two examples of long-term projects, but ones where we can now see the progress. Emily Lewis, Executive Director of the Venango County Economic Authority, and project manager of 100 Seneca Street has continued to share details of the project with the media, at public meetings, and upon inquiries. The newest development was the recent announcement of the first tenant of the building, Side Hustle Brews and Spirits – Returned Native of Oil City Jeff Karns, the Co-Owner of the company, is pictured on the cover, with Emily.
Jeff shares, “Despite launching our company halfway around the world, I have always wanted to make a positive impact on Venango County. When I heard what the Economic Development Authority was trying to achieve with the 100 Seneca project, I was glad we were able to step in and fill those empty shoes, despite all the challenges it has entailed. This company, in the heart of historic Oil City, will provide high quality craft beer and spirits to both local and international customers. Further, it is my aspiration that this project will spur development of other new businesses and that other people originally from the area will do their part in furthering the economic growth of our county. We are grateful for the Authority’s belief in our company and our future together.”
Along with business development, a focus for the Oil Region has been on outdoor recreation and trail development. You may be surprised to learn of the timeline and cost of even a few miles of new bike trail. Much like the construction or renovation of any building, there are dozens, if not hundreds of details from beginning to end. By the time we are popping the champagne or cutting the ribbon, it may be hard to even remember what that very first step was.
Visitors and locals can enjoy more than 60 miles of bike trails throughout Venango County, with the first mile of trail being designated in the 1980’s. Beyond the many years of negotiation with public and private property owners, there have been over 12 million dollars invested in the region’s trail development and it’s not complete yet. Kim Harris, Outdoor Recreation Program Manager, explains that trails beginning to be planned today may not be completed for many years and improvement to existing trails will be continuous.
Our region is a space of limitless potential. Every improvement starts with an individual taking the first step – the champion. Being successful in this role requires more than mere enthusiasm; it’s essential to have dedication and perseverance, while gathering both financial support and other resourceful connections along the way.
“It generally takes a lot longer to make something great happen than people think.”
-Ari Weinzweig, Zingerman’s
This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s March 2023 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.