DevelopOhio

The Downtown Newark Streetscape Project is showing signs of progress and attracting interest already, drawing businesses and investors, the Newark Advocate reports. Jerry McClain, vice chairman of the board of the Newark Development Partners Community Improvement Corporation (CIC), said, “[y]ou get one chance to make that first impression, and we’re trying to make a good one here.” Ultimately, the “showcase” of downtown Newark will be “the square around the historic Licking County Courthouse” which will be more pedestrian-friendly with roundabouts and two-way traffic around it, a “dramatic change” according to Dan DeLawder, chairman of the board of the CIC. A downtown hotel formerly called The Place Off the Square has undergone a $1.6 million renovation and is now a Doubletree by Hilton, which has led to a “significant difference in traffic and occupancy rates” according to Cheri Hottinger, president and CEO of the Licking County Chamber of Commerce. Hottinger also noted that downtown second-floor loft apartments are at full occupancy, and said, “[w]e’ve got businesses wanting to come in. Local and out of town investors. . . . This project is being noticed across the state of Ohio, not just here locally.” The project will continue for two to three more years, and when it is complete, McClain said, “I think you’re going to see a different downtown Newark.” For more, read the full article.