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2011
DOWNTOWN MANTUA REVITALIZATIONScenic Cuyahoga River
Preserv
ing the Past ~ Protecting the Present ~ Preparing for the Future
Downtown Mantua Revitalization Corporation
Annual Report
DMRCP.O. Box 414 • Mantua, OH 44255
330-274-4040 • [email protected]
page 1
Northeast Ohio Portage County The Village of Mantua
Current Map
1000 ft
500 m
©2010 AAA, ESRI, NAVTEQ, TCSThese directions are provided solely as a guideline. No representation is made or warranty given as to their content, route, practicability or efficiency. User assumes all risk of use. AAA and its suppliers assume no responsibility for any loss or delay from use.
Location
The Village of Mantua, located in northern Portage County, is home to over 1,000 residents and a hub of activity for surrounding townships. Ohio State Route 44 bisects The Village’s historic center and provides easy access to Cleveland, Akron, and Youngstown by way of the Ohio Turnpike just two miles south and US Route 422 seven miles to the north.
Setting
Clean-air, beautiful countryside, small-town charm, and outdoor recreational opportunities make Mantua Village a desirable place to live, work, and play. Running through the Village is a portion of the upper Cuyahoga River, designated as scenic and being developed as a portion of a larger scenic river trail. The Marsh Wetlands State Nature Preserve makes up a large portion of the southeastern quadrant of the Village.
Between the river and nature preserve runs the Headwaters Trail, intersected by the Buckeye Trail at The Village’s eastern border. Headwaters Trail connects Mantua to neighboring Garrettsville to the east, and eventually, Aurora to the west. Branching off Headwaters Trail within the Village is Glacier Esker Trail, along with several observation decks.
History
Incorporated in 1898, Mantua was named after a famous city in Northern Italy. Today it boasts an impressive stock of Victorian homes and turn-of-the century brick buildings, several listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.
Getting to Know Mantua
Mission Statement
Downtown Mantua Revitalization Corporation works with The Village of Mantua to lessen the burdens of government by engaging the citizens, civic organizations, business community, and property owners to develop and implement a plan to reverse blight and improve accessibility of the historic Village to promote the health and well being of the community.
DMRC Objectives
• MaketheMantuaareaawelcomingdestination
• Encourageresidentsandvisitorstoenjoy the Mantua area, including:
~ Headwaters Hike & Bike Trail ~ Cuyahoga River ~ Shops ~ Eateries ~ Parks ~ Service Providers ~ Historic Architecture ~ Rural Character
• Plan,securefinancing,andfacilitatecapital improvements in the downtown Mantua commercial corridor
In 2006, when The Village of Mantua was working on a 20-year Comprehensive Growth Plan, a steering committee formed to engage citizens through the visioning process. Members included the Mayor, Village Clerk, Planning Commission Chair, business owners, residents, and property owners.
In April of 2007, that group incorporated as Downtown Mantua Revitalization Corporation (DMRC) to act as the private-sector arm of a partnership with the Village in making the vision a reality. Controlled growth is the ultimate goal this collaboration.
DMRC is a 501(c)(3) with a 12-member Board of Trustees and an active Advisory Panel.
page 2
Downtown Mantua...
ASSETS1. Small town environment and lifestyle
(26 comments)2. Location of the community (23 comments)3. Feeling of being safe and secure (19)4. Recreational opportunities (17): • HikeandBikeTrail.(10) • PublicParks,ex.“pocket/minipark”(6) • Threenaturepreserves.(1)The River takes on many forms in the eyes of the community. It is a natural amenity providing scenic beauty as it winds through the Village. The River also provides numerous recreational opportunities. The River was listed seven times as an asset, thus indicating its significancetothecommunity.
CRITICAL ISSUES1. Physical appearance of the downtown
businesses & surrounding neighborhoods needs revitalized (42 comments)
2. Mantuaneedstodevelopaplan/visiontopromote development of community in a sustainable manner (24)
3. Additional parking spaces to support downtown businesses (24)
March 2006 Community Input Meeting led by Portage County Regional Planning (PCRP)
“IfIcouldimprovetheMantuaDowntownArea,Iwould…”•Focusattentionandeffortsontrailandriver.•Coordinateallthesignage,i.e.,gateway,streetidentification,anddirectionalsignage.
•MaketherivermorevisiblefromRoute44.•Makegatewaysmoreattractive.•Focuseffortsandresourcesonriverandtrail.
September 2007 Community Input Meeting led by E. G. & G. Inc., consultant recommended by PCRP
Downtown Revitalization
page 3
DMRC is a member of the Ohio Main Street Program, part of The National Trust for Historic Preservation, and follows its Four-Point Approach® to revitalization and Eight Guiding Principles for success.
4 Points1. Organization – consensus, cooperation, partnerships, governance, volunteerism2. Promotion – image, pride, events3. Design – appearance, safety, atmosphere, accessibility4. EconomicRestructuring–businessmix,competitiveness
8 Principles1. Comprehensive-noone“quickfix”2. Incremental – small accomplishments create snowball effect 3. Self-help - no one else will save downtown 4. Partnerships–public/private,civicorganizations,stakeholders5. Identifying&capitalizingonexistingassets-ourownuniquequalities6. Quality – is better than quantity 7. Change – positive change breeds positive attitudes 8. Implementation–frequentvisiblechangesinstillconfidence
The Main Street Movement
Mantua Downtown Revitalization Project Design Plan
Prepared by E. G. & G., Inc.Prepared for Village of Mantua and Downtown Mantua Revitalization, Inc. 6a.
View of Improvements Along South Main Street Looking North from Cuyahoga River Bridge (Alternative)
DMRCisfullyvolunteer-driven;nopaidpositionsexistwithintheorganization.Enthusiasmand civic-mindedness keep the group motivated.
Five years of hard work have established DMRC and put Mantua Village in a position to accomplish future goals.
Board of TrusteesMinimumofthreeTrustees(currentmaximumof12)areelectedatannualmeetingandserve 3-year terms
1. Edie Benner, President (2007-present) 2. Michelle Barnauskas, Vice President (2007-present) 3. Jodie Fiala, Secretary (2011-present) 4. Keith Barton, Treasurer (2011-present), past Secretary (2010-2011) 5. Ellie Stamm, (2007-present), past Treasurer (2007-2011) 6. Jim Rogers (2007-present), past Planning Commission & Council President 7. Joan Sweet, liaison to Chamber of Commerce (2007-present) 8. Jim Oster (2007-present) 9. Rick Frato (2010-present) 10. Lisa Zamecnik (2007-present) 11. Becky Newell (2007-2011), past Secretary (2007-2010) 12. OPEN
Advisory PanelRecognizedbyTrusteesasadvisorsforspecific projects or overall DMRC goal achievement.
1. Christine Pitsinger 2. Linda Schilling 3. Linda Ehlert 4. Sandy Engelhart 5. Helen Hazlett 6. Carl Zeleznik 7. Caren Stutzmann 8. Melissa Lyle
Officers and Committees• OfficersareappointedbyBoardofTrustees
to run day-to-day business for 1-year termso May be Board members or otherso President and secretary may not be held by the same persono Multiple vice presidents and secretaries are permissible
• CommitteesareappointedbyBoardtoimplementspecificprojectso May be Board or Advisory members or otherso Remain under direction of Board
Organization
9. Tia Knipper 10. Eric Hummel 11. Aaron Snopek 12. Terri Vechery 13. Marie Minard 14. Jeff Wilde 15. Ben Prescott, Council President 16. Linda Clark, Mayor
page 4
2006…community fi rst learns about Village’s 20-year Comprehensive Plan,100 people attend meeting to identify area
assets and critical issues. Revitalization Steering Committee formed to help with the Plan...1st Annual Spring Spruce-up
2007…volunteers visit other communities to collect examples; DMRC incorporated; consultants interviewed, E.G.&G.
selected for infrastructure/streetscape plan; Village awarded $15,000 planning grant; community meetings to shape future
2008…Spring Spruce-up, community meetings & planning sessions continue, streetscape sketches unveiled, 1st Walking
Through Mantua’s Past attracts 500 visitors to town
2009…4th Annual Spring Spruce-up; 1st Annual Mantua’s Art on the Hill; community meetings to fi nalize sketches of how
downtown Mantua could look 2010…5th Annual Spring Spruce-up; 2nd Annual Mantua’s Art on the Hill; 2nd Biennial Walking Through Mantua’s Past;
planning sessions continue; DMRC 501(c)(3) offi cially recognized by IRS (retroactive)
2011…The Year of the Grant...We’ll see YOU at 7 pm on May 9th for Community Input Session
in the Mantua-Shalersville Fire Station’s conference room (around back)
5/9 Town Hall Meeting5/13-14/11 6th Annual Spring Spruce-up
7/9/11 3rd Annual Mantua’s Art on the Hill
Fall 2011 Community Meeting TBD
Monday, May 9 7 pm
Mantua-Shalersville Fire Department
Town Hall Meeting - ALL WELCOME
• Learn the status of downtown commercial
corridor infrastructure upgrades and
streetscape improvement project
• Hear plans for 2011-2012 downtown activities
• Share your input!
Friday, May 13 8 am - noon
Saturday, May 14 9 am - 1 pm
Mantua Mini Park (Prospect & Main)
Spring Spruce-up ALL WELCOME
• Help remove winter debris from public
spaces in The Village• Freshen-up our town for springtime visitors including
Soap Box Derby contestants
and spectators
Save our Town!It can’t be done without you.
Yet when a community comes together, so much is possible!
Bring your family & friends and help make Mantua a better place to live, work, and play.
Town Hall Meetings
Each year, DMRC hosts public meetings to update interested citizens on progress and encourage involvement. In May of 2011, meeting participants reviewed prior-year highlights and learned about upcoming events...
Past Highlights• 2005-2006
Village Comprehensive Plan, community visioning process, steering committee visits to other communities
• 2007 DMRC incorporated, resources researched, consultant hired for streetscape plan, $15,000 grant awarded toward $36,000 planning cost
• 2008 First“WalkingThroughMantua’sPast”attractedover500guestsand educated visitors about historic commercial buildings
• 2009 First“Mantua’sArtontheHill”showcasedover60localartisans/vendors and generated over $5,000 for DMRC
• 2010 Second History Walk & Art Festival, downtown clean-up days, streetscapesketchesfinalized
2011 Plans• eachMaySpringSpruce-up• eachJuly“Mantua’sArtontheHill”• eachSeptemberPotatoFestivalBooth&Parade• everyotherOctoberHistoryWalk• year-roundFundraising,Cheerleading
page 5
Organization
2011 Budget
Individual contributions and income from events were the greatest source of funds for DMRC in 2011, while one-time administrativecostsaddedtoexpenses.
Fundraising highlights included a $5,000 anonymous donation and over $4,400 from the organization’s3rdAnnual“Mantua’sArtontheHill.”One-timeexpensesincluded$2,500in legal fees for successfully defending DMRC’s 501(c)3 status with the IRS and $600 in prior-yeartaxpreparationduetoIRSdelays.Lessthan$1,500wasspentpromotingandhosting events that raised nearly $5,000.
DMRC closed the year with a bank balance of $16,661.
What was $75,000 goal set in 2007? OneofthefirstdecisionsmadebyTheVillageandDMRCwastofocusefforts on a commercial district infrastructure and streetscape improvement project.StartingwiththehistoriccenteroftownandexpandingalongRoute 44, this project would be most visible, protect historic assets, improve accessibility to buildings, and repair major infrastructure problems.
Approximately$75,000wouldcoverthecostofevaluatingcurrentconditions,gettingpublicinput on enhancements, preparing conceptual drawings, developing a design plan, and submitting grant applications. A basic plan was completed at a cost of under $40,000; however, The Village has been unable to contribute and the scope of the project is being reevaluated for feasibility.
DMRCcontinuestosupportthecommunityinafiscallyresponsiblemannerwithvolunteerhours and in-kind donations valued at more than four times cash. (See Design section.)
“Empty pockets never held anyone back. Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that.”
– Norman Vincent Peale
page 6
Organization3:56 PM03/15/12Cash Basis
DMRC Programs/Projects Report
January through December 2011
Type Date Num Name Memo Account
Legal Fees44%
Insurance17%
Events21%
Promotion11%
Dues7%
Legal Fees
Events
Insurance
Promotion
DuesIndividuals
50%Events38%
Organizations8%
Grants4%
Individuals
Events
Organizations
Grants
Interest
‐8,000
‐6,000
‐4,000
‐2,000
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
Events General
Page 1 of 1
Income $12,724
3:56 PM03/15/12Cash Basis
DMRC Programs/Projects Report
January through December 2011
Type Date Num Name Memo Account
Legal Fees44%
Insurance17%
Events21%
Promotion11%
Dues7%
Legal Fees
Events
Insurance
Promotion
DuesIndividuals
50%Events38%
Organizations8%
Grants4%
Individuals
Events
Organizations
Grants
Interest
‐8,000
‐6,000
‐4,000
‐2,000
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
Events General
Page 1 of 1
Expenses $7,126
3rd Annual Mantua’S Art On The Hill
Saturday, July 9 was sunny day, ideal for 60 vendors to display their talents and sell handmade goods to downtown visitors from near andfar.Affordableboothfeesat“Mantua’sArtontheHill”madetheeventpopularwithartisans,whofounditeasytomakeaprofit.Avarietyofartformswasrepresentedin2011,including watercolor, pottery, woodcarving, music, dance, photography, culinary, fabrics, recycled art, and more!
Much of the event was videotaped, along with guest and vendor interviews. Videos were posted on the internet and DVDs were produced to help promote future events.
In-kind donations for the event included advertising, electrical, sound system, refreshments, use of buildings andtables/tents/chairs,aswellasauctionprizesfromparticipating artisans and local businesses.
Event SponsorsThe Community Journal
and Rapid ElectricEntertainment Sponsored
by Rick Frato, Edward Jones
Event OrganizersChristine Pitsinger, Co-ChairBecky Newell, Co-ChairRick Frato, Music Chair
VolunteersBill NewellJason PitsingerBrandon PitsingerNathan PitsingerMissy LyleKeith BartonJim & Pat OsterEdie BennerJoan SweetEllie StammMelanie MiracleBecky TiptonAaron SnopekCarl Zeleznik, Jr.Michael ZeleznikLauren FratoMichelle BarnauskasJessica FratoDean OlsonBob MacLearieCarolin NewellBill & Sue Dick
Resource DonorsVanAuken FamilyEric HummelJeff BennerAris CompanyKevin BarnauskasSteve RadcliffJake’sHaylett’s BPMiddlefieldBankTom AldrichCarl ZeleznikStamm Contracting
Special ThanksMantua Police Dept.Musicians & DancersOur Talented ArtisansMantua-Shalersville Area
Chamber of CommerceProspect St. Residents &
Businesses
ArtisansArtisans
July 1, 2010 The Community Journal Page 6 July 1, 2010 The Community Journal Page 7
“Mantua’s Art on the Hill”Potpourri Pot
440-354-6757 •memory albums, children’s stepstools, painted wood decor, deco birdhouses
Tree City Carvers330-221-7023 • woodcarvingsMantua Center Art Group
330-562-7469 • water colors & various mediaFerris & Taylor
330-208-6715 • wine jellies, fruit butter, herb blends,dip mixes, garden themed crafts, hypertufas, leaf castings,
Common Ground Farm & Kennel330-995-9273 • hand led pony rides
Marcia Ferencz & James Chaykowski330-562-9609 • acrylic/water colors and prints
Head 2 Toe Massage & Body Work330-569-4340 • massage, bodywork and handmade jewelry
Nancy Whaley330-274-2150 • hand loomed rag rugs & placemats
Linda’s Handmade Handbags440-563-6320 • fabric handbags
K Craft & Co.330-533-5015 • handmade furniture, fence benches, painted chairs,
magnets, slate & wood paintings, seasonal yard signsReiss Unique Creations
330-318-3444 • handcrafted jewelry made with sterling silver,copper, pewter, gemstones, leather, hemp cord and magnetic beads
Farmhouse Stoneware440-286-1122 • wheel-thrown & hand built stoneware
Diane Osborne330-388-3600 • various handmade carfts & collectables
Anita Silverman440-729-0614 • jewelry, pastel animal prints
Nancy Brugmann330-842-2906 • decorated glassblock lights, assorted crafts,
lighted Christmas decorations, baby quilts, aprons, towels, tablerunners, Christmas stockings, tree skits, baby items
Aurora Conservatory of Dance330-562-1436 • danceAdoptables By Gloria
330-626-4648 • teddybears with custom made outfits& adoption papers
Shooting Star Photography440-543-6399 • photography, native Ohio species
Jon Hill & Claudia Berlinski330-212-7538
ceramics and collages
Tommie Jo Marsilio, Attorney at Law & Janet Esposito330-527-0100 • face painting, children’s crafts
Thistle Dew330-634-5415 • handcrafted soap and herbal items
Sandy Perdian330-527-5358 • stained glass
Trott Wood Creations330-637-2912 • handmade, custom designed
rocking horsesKathryn Roman
330-221-8517 • jewelryOriginals By Barbara
440-548-7992 • sculptures, pineneedle baskets,seed bead jewelry
The Pampered ChefKelly Champ • 330-281-8898,Lea Lazar • 330-274-0614
Saturday,July 10th10AM-7PM
Hosted by the DMRC(Downtown Mantua Revitalization Corporation)
Sponsored byRapid Electric and The Community Journal
Prospect St.
Cact • 330-388-6225hamburgers, hotdogs, Italian sausage sandwiches,meatballs sandwiches, fries, coffee, pop, water
Debbie Iammarino • 330-274-3480frappacinos, water, pop, smoothies
Goodell Family Farm • 330-274-2376Maple products, Maple cones
Crestwood Lions Club • 330-527-2048hamburgers, hotdogs, french fries,
fish, chicken nuggetsLemonade Shake-Ups • 330-524-2646
fresh squeezed lemon shake-upsCarole’s Corn Dogs • 330-527-4437
corn dogs, fried cheese, hotdogs, chilidogs, popJake’s • 330-274-0700
sandwichesSue Wilson • 330-274-0268
baked goods - pumpkin rolls & cookiesBarone Concessions, LLC • 330-286-3194hotdogs, nacho & cheese, chips, pop, water
G&C Bakery • 330-274-0538cannoli & misc. fresh bakery items
Eateries
4680 E Prospect St., Mantua330-274-0700 • www.JakesEats.com
Tues-Sat 7am-9pm, Sun 7am-2pm (breakfast only)
Tuesday...Tuesday...Tuesday...Tuesday...Tuesday... All-You-Can Eat Steak Night - $11.99Wednesday...Wednesday...Wednesday...Wednesday...Wednesday... All-You-Can Eat Pasta Night - $2.99
Thursday...Thursday...Thursday...Thursday...Thursday... All-You-Can Eat Crab Legs -$28.95Friday...Friday...Friday...Friday...Friday... All-You-Can Eat Fish Fry - $8.99
Saturday...Saturday...Saturday...Saturday...Saturday... Prime Rib - Queen $11.99, King $14.99
New Menu Items! We Do Catering!
Full BarNOW OPEN!
Now Available.... Wifi!Carryout Available!Daily SpecialsDaily SpecialsDaily SpecialsDaily SpecialsDaily Specials
New Menu
Items!
Sang M. Leu, MDBoard Certified inFamily Medicine
Yongjin Chen, MDBoard Certified in Family Medicine & Geriatrics
Dr. Sang M. Leu practices in Garrettsville as part of University Hospitals Medical Practices. He is board certified in Family Medicine and completed his internship at Fairview Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio. He did his Internal Medicine residency at St. Mary’s Hospital, Waterbury, Connecticut and his General Practice residency at Robinson Memorial Hospital, Ravenna, Ohio.
Dr. Leu has special medical interests in general family medicine and geriatrics. He is now welcoming new patients in Garrettsville.
Dr. Yongjin Chen practices in Mantua as part of University Hospitals Medical Practices. He is board certified in Family Medicine and Geriatrics, and completed his Geriatric fellowship training at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. He completed his Family Practice residency at Genesys Regional Medical Center, Michigan State University.
At the UH Mantua Health Center, Dr. Chen provides a broad spectrum of primary care services to patients, including: general pediatric care, disease/cancer screenings, laceration repair and skin lesion removal, chronic disease management, obesity control, depression and anxiety management, women’s health and geriatric care.
Dr. Chen accepts same-day appointments and has evening and weekend hours available.
Welcoming Patients
UH Doctors make the Difference.
8307 Windham StreetGarrettsville, Ohio 44231330-527-2617
UH Mantua Health Center10803 Main StreetMantua, Ohio 44255330-274-2030
Most major insurances are accepted.
The Print Shop Business CenterFor All Your Copying and Printing Needs
330.296.0123Fax: 330.296.6111
263 West Main Street, Suite CRavenna, Ohio 44266
Email: [email protected]
www.printshopbc.com
Store Hours: 10-5, Mon-Fri
July SpecialCOPY PRICING
(no minimum)
Must present coupon. Expires 7-31-10
Color 39c B/W 06c
Advertise with BANNERS
Must present coupon. Expires 7-31-10
$5.00 sq. ft.
BUSINESS CARDS 10% OFF Must present coupon.Expires 7-31-10
YARD SIGNS AVAILABLE
10AM- 11AM11AM-12PM
12PM-1PM1PM-2PM
2-3PM3-4PM4-5PM5-6PM6-7PM
Live EntertainmentNine hours of live entertainment will take place in front of
Zagursky’s Pierogies, located near the corner of Prospect and MainStreet. Enjoy the sounds of various musicians singing and playing
a variety of instruments throughout the day.
LeAnn Anderson & Joan Horine, Harp/FluteSteve Radcliff and Rich Stibrick, GuitarsMarty Hura5-8 Voice AcappellaT.B.A.Laura Fedor, 3 Piece Band/VocalT.B.A.Joe PinterRoy Pancost & Friends, 2 Piece BandMartin Stehli, Solo Guitar/Keyboard
Chinese AuctionTry your luck on over 100 prizes donated by local
businesses and artwork donated by the artisans particpatingin “Mantua’s Art on the Hill”. Winners need not be present.
Artisans
Carolyn Newell330-562-7464 • gift baskets
Mantua & Shalersville Historical Society330-274-0803Diana Foster
330-631-1258 • drawings and paintingsKathleen Designs
440-479-4583 • handmade clothing, dressesHeather (Abby) Hammel
330-612-0682 • paintings, drawings, chrochette, plantsKyebags
330-603-6360 • handmade handbags, purses, scarvesWindows in the Woods Workshop
216-390-2275 • garden art, hand crafted cement leaves,leaf inprinted linens, rustic wood garden benches
Dana Jordan440-781-5257 • seed bead spiders and other bugs,
magnetic bead necklacesHer Name is Mud
440-479-1570 • ceramicsNite Owl Candle Co.
954-822-2882 • candlesGarrettsville Curtains Up Theatre • 216-375-0709
Learn about theatre opportunities in our area!Psychic Janice Loreta will provide readings from 3-6PM
Maple Hill330-654-2713 • handcrafted soaps, balms, sachets,
herbal productsRosario’s Originals
330-203-3816 • beaded jewelryLiving Waters
330-274-0904 • photography, coffee, chocolate,t-shirts
terri v. distinctive paper crafts330-962-0818 • flower pounding
Carl Cascone216-956-3556 • oil paintings
*More applications coming in daily!
UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP!
Sunscape Tanning4676 Prospect St., Mantua • 330-274-0070
50% OFFAll Sunglasses, Jewelry
& Bottled Lotions*Valid through 7/15/2010.
Check Out Our...Monthly Specials &Extended Hours!
THE DECK11697 St. Rt. 44, Mantua • 330-274-8403
We Serve Breakfast Sat. & Sun. 7AM-Noon
1/4 Slab SmokedBBQ Ribs & Fries
Thu
rsday
$2.99Wednesd
ay
$2.99
Steak & Fries!
Wednesd
ay
$12.99
Prime Rib!1/2 Pound AngusBurger & Chips
Monday
$5.00
*Extras are extra.
Watch for a complete listof those who contributed inmaking “Art on the Hill” a
success in the July 15th issueof the Community Journal!
Event Organizers
Co-Chairs -Becky Newell and Christine Pitsinger
Music - Rick FratoChinese Auction - Norma Meyer
Donors: Middlefield Bank • Ron Fedor Masonry • Zagursky’s PierogiesAdvanced Rehab • The Van Auken Family • Graphic Design & Sign
page 9
Event Income $2,815 Booth Fees $665 Sponsorships $631 Chinese Auction $321Raffle&Donations Net Proceeds $3,336
Expenses $367 Advertising $270 Volunteer T-shirts $259 Utilities $200 Videographer
Promotion
Mantua’s Music in the Mini Park
Downtown became a concert venue and dance stage two balmy summer evenings. On Friday, July 29 and Friday, August 19, West Prospect Street to Maple Street was blocked off for seating (and dancing) while musicians performed on the raised, northwest corner of Prospect and Main.
Gitter Picker String Factory of Twinsburg brought 12 students and instructors, all part of their ad-lib Finger Noise Band, to perform in July. Their sets ranged from blues to rock to country with musicians rotating in and out.
Portage County’s own Blue Cadillac is renowned throughout Northeast Ohio. Their oldies rock, blues, jazz, and swing had spectators
literally dancing in the streets!
GuestsenjoyedrefreshmentsdonatedbyMiddlefieldBankandhotdogswithallthefixin’sfromChefGilly-TheHotDog Chef. Nominal donations were suggested for food and beverages and guests were generous, donating over $375, which nearly covered the $300 cost for the hot dog cart and
$80 in signs promoting the events.
Mantua Potato Festival
DMRC participates in this annual event withaninformationboothandparadefloat.Thousands of area residents and visitors see the dedication and camaraderie of DMRC volunteers, while having the opportunity to ask questions about projects. Pictures of recent activities are displayed and new volunteers recruited during the festival.
page 10
Promotion
Keeping Up Appearances
Each year, DMRC collaborates with other groups on a variety of projects to keep public areas looking neat and clean. Activities take place prior to events which bring visitors to town,likethePortageCountySoapBoxDerbyandMantuaPotatoFestival.
The two-part Spring Spruce up in May brought out dozens of Crestwood High School students on a Friday, followed by business owners, residents, scout troups, and other friends Saturday. Volunteers removed winter debris from sidewalksandstormdrains,cleaned-upflowerbedsandplanted bulbs, edged lawns and destroyed encroaching weeds, washed windows, and showed tremendous community spirit to visitors and passers-by.
Summer’s focus was the visible trail-head at the foot of Prospect Street, where DMRC volunteers and friends mowed grass, trimmed stray branches, and removed weeds to make the trail more accessible and better delineate the parking area.
In the fall, another downtown clean-up day gave students in leadershipclasses/organizationsanopportunitytoearnservicehours.Thefallprojectspurred a collaboration on signage to promote Mantua’s natural resources and recreation areas. Plans are underway with the Village Administrator, Director of Portage Parks District, and Ohio Department of Transportation.
Additionally, DMRC consulted with a landscape architect on trail-head improvements and received concepts for better parking, gathering areas, and overall appearance. The plans, provided as a donation to the group’s efforts, will be used to seek grants and in-kind donations for implementation in 2012-2013.
page 11
Design
Streetscape
The streetscape plan prepared by consultants E. G. & G., Inc. is detailed for a three-block areainthehistoriccenteroftown,whichrequiressignificantinfrastructureupgrades(“phaseone”).However,grantfundsforthattypeofprojecthavedwindledandVillagefinancesaretight.
In fact, DMRC covered over 75% of The Village’s 2007 commitment of matching funds for an Ohio Department of Development planning grant…and DMRC is committed to seeing the streetscape project through…by reevaluating the project’s scope and revising implementation as grant funds become available.
The current focus of state and federal funding is on multi-modal transportation: pedestrian, bicycle, shared-ride. Projects being funded include trails, sidewalks, and connectivity studies.Thestreetscapeplan’s“secondphase”islessdetailed,butabettermatchforthese“green”goals,withimprovementsinareashavingsoundinfrastructure,butinadequateprovisions for pedestrians and bicyclists.
In 2011, DMRC and The Village laid groundwork for rearranging phases of the streetscape plan, so that smaller-scale projects might be implemented with private-sector funds as required match for any grants. The long-term goal is full-project completion when Village financesallow.
Construction Components•Street/WalkInfrastructure58%•UndergroundUtilities17%•StreetLights16%•Furniture/Enhancements9%
page 12
Design
Laying the FoundationGrants are intended to improve the lives of citizens in areas receiving funds. Funders have various requirements to ensure money goes to those in need. Two designations, in particular, were necessary for Mantua to be eligible for grants and recognition by an organization responsible for identifying grant recipients is crucial.
• Low-ModerateIncome(LMI): The Village and DMRC partnered with Portage County Regional Planning on a study to prove that over half of the residents in a portion of downtown have limited incomes. ManygrantshaveLMIrequirements,specificallyOhioDepartmentofDevelopment(ODOD)Community Development Block Grants.
• SituationalDistressArea:DMRC researched and provided information necessary for The Village to bereinstatedasa“distressed”area(developmentincentralPortageCountyresultedintheentirecounty being withdrawn in 2011), making Mantua eligible for other ODOD and conservation funds.
• AkronMetropolitanAreaTransportationStudy(AMATS):Federal highway funds provided to states are administered by local Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO). The MPO for Mantua is AMATS.DMRCmembershavebeenincontactwithAMATSofficials,aswellasOhioDepartmentofTransportation (ODOT) about highway, trail, and landscape grants, as well as the upcoming paving project on Main Street, south of Prospect.
Grant ChaseFunding for several projects has already been pursued. Some efforts were more successful than others, but all demonstrate DMRC’s commitment to moving projects forward; they keep Mantua on the radar with grant makers; and they put us in a better position for future opportunities.
• PortageFoundation:DMRCappliedfora$4,000granttofundhalfthecostofacoordinated“way-finding”signagesysteminMantua,whichwoulddirectpeopletokeycommunitydestinations(ex.Headwaters Trail, Buchert Park, Village Hall); $500 was awarded and will be combined with $1,000 Portage Parks earmarked for Mantua, a $1,000 donation from the Potato Stompcommittee,andadditionalDMRCfundsfortrail/riversigns.
• ODODCommunityDevelopmentBlockGrant“FormulaAllocation”:DMRC applied for $75,000 administered by the Portage County Commissioners, to provide for an aesthetically improved, cleaner, safer, and easier to maintain parking area directly south of Mantua Station Brick Commercial District; no funds were awarded and the dirt lot behind these historic buildings (just north of the old railroad depot) remains unsightly and unsafe.
• ConnectingCommunitiesPlanningGrant:CTConsultants,Villageengineeringfirm,tookthelead in applying for $25,000 to detail a plan for connecting Headwaters Trail at the foot of Prospect Street to the trail-head behind McDonalds and designating a pathway along Main Street to Canada Road, creating a loop back to Buckeye Trail, which runs along Peck Road; out of 11, only two much larger projects in other Northeast Ohio communities were selected to receive $50,000 each.
• TransportationEnhancementProgram(TEP): CT Consultants also assisted The Village in applying for a $293,000 grant for sidewalks, curbing, landscape, and bridge improvements along Main Street to coincide with ODOT paving in 2012; $45,000 was awarded toward sidewalks and curbing.
• GatewayLandscapingGrant: ODOT has funding to provide up to $20,000 worth of landscape materials for use along state routes, within the right-of-way; this will be consideredtoround-outthesidewalk/curbproject.
• RecreationalTrailProgram/NatureWorks:grants for trail-head improvements were researched and many preparations made in anticipation of applying in early-2013.
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Design
Property Owners
An early initiative of DMRC was bringing property owners together to learn about funding opportunities offered through Portage County’s Neighborhood Development Services.
Additionally, volunteers researched historic preservation best practices and resources. That research led to explorationofMantuabecomingaCertifiedLocalGovernment, a status that would give historic building owners access to preservation funds andtaxincentives.
Business Owners
DMRC has a representative on the Portage Development Board, giving Mantua businesses a voice in economic development activities throughout the county. In 2011, president of the Development Board touredMantuawithDMRCofficers,notingindustrialsitesandamenitiesavailable,inordertohelpmarketMantua’sassetstoexpandingbusinesses.
Mantua-ShalersvilleAreaChamberofCommercehasanofficerontheDMRCBoard,actingasanofficialliaisonbetweentheorganizations.Bothgroupsworktogetheronmanyprojectstoenhancethe economic climate of Mantua.
Business Climate
DMRC Board members work with businesses to keep them in affordable space, conducive to their operations, helping with relocation in The Village when appropriate.
Mantua representatives encourage entrepreneurship among local residents and recruit complementary businesses from outside the area.
page 14
economic restructuring
Town meeting participants said: “Mantuaneeds...”•bookstore•sidewalkdining•youthcenter•seniorcenter•YMCA/YWCA•bowlingalley•swimmingpool•restaurantwith
a meeting room•accessiblepublicrestrooms•coffeeshop
•bakery•icecreamshop•Internetcafé•wi-fisites•publicbeachatriver•no“boxstores”•betterlooking
parking areas•nicewalkwaysto
building entrances •trail-headpicnicareas•streetfairs
EconomicDevelopment“Truths”:
•Privateinvestmentisattractedto areasofperceivedopportunity
•Theperceptionofopportunityisheavily influencedbylocationimage
•Downtownistheareaofthecommunity mostoftenseenbyvisitors
•Downtownmustprojectastrongand positivelocationimageinorderto attractinvestmenttothecommunity
For more information:330-274-4040
www.MantuaShalersvilleChamber.com click on Downtown Revitalization
DMRC is a 501(c)(3) EIN 56-2676527
DOWNTOWN MANTUA REVITALIZATIONScenic Cuyahoga River
Preserv
ing the Past ~ Protecting the Present ~ Preparing for the Future
DONATIONS
Please suPPort Downtown Mantua revitalizationanD Protect the future of
the village of Mantua
Donationsandmulti-yearfinancialpledges may be made to:
Downtown Mantua Revitalization Corp. POBox414,Mantua,OH44255
Pleaseincludeyourcontactinformation:Name
Mailing AddressPhone,Fax
Email AddressAmount of Pledge & Dates to be Paid
