Cultural and economic growth in Venango County will get a boost under a plan developed by the Oil Region Alliance of Business, Industry and Tourism and Pennsylvania Western University Clarion for the university’s Venango property.
Under the proposal, Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education and the Pennsylvania Department of General Services would transfer the Venango location to ORA ownership.
The transfer is subject to authorization by PASSHE’s Board of Governors and legislative approval and would allow for the conveyance of the Venango property to the ORA. The ORA, which manages the Oil Region National Heritage Area, would use the site to further its mission of heritage preservation, economic development, recreation, tourism and arts revitalization.
“The ORA is a ‘best-fit’ for the Venango property,” said John R. Phillips, II, Alliance president and CEO. “The ORA has consistently supported and partnered with the university over these past decades and has an intimate understanding and genuine interest, perhaps better stated as passion, to see this site continue for the advancement of our region.”
Many may be wondering what the intended use for the campus will be. Susan Williams and John Phillips recently discussed what the future likely holds, including the following opportunities:
· A facility that hosts training for businesses, customized when needed, and broad as it benefits many
· A gathering place for the arts, history, and cultural communities
· An asset for tourism
· Lodging for those in programs and activities related to the campus’ use
· A continued legacy location, in honor of those who have built the campus through funding, program building, and time invested
The ORA seeks to involve community partners in the process of envisioning what the best uses will be, immediately upon transfer of the property, and into the future.
Susan noted, “I am confident that the Oil Region Alliance will shepherd the best possible use of the Venango Campus and I urge others to join me in supporting their efforts.”
This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s February 2024 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.