YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Economic Action Group approved a three-year strategic plan in 2024 that focuses on five pillars: financial sustainability, responsive programs, community building, marketing and visibility, and creating a lasting foundation for the organization’s future.
EAG spearheaded a proposal championed by Lake to River and partnered with the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, Greater Ohio Policy Center and Town Center Associates. As a result of its efforts, Youngstown was awarded a $50,000 grant from JobsOhio to begin planning its revitalization plan.
“We look forward to collaborating with local and regional planning partners to develop a strategy that addresses both immediate and long-term needs,” says Nicholas Chretien, EAG executive director.
In a challenging year for downtown Youngstown, following the tragic explosion at the Realty Tower, EAG collaborated with partners to support affected businesses and to plan The Downtown Open, which welcomed visitors back to the city.
EAG also collaborated with city officials on several initiatives. These included the city’s first designated outdoor refreshment area and a comprehensive citywide lighting inventory.
Of note, Chretien says, is EAG’s commercial property revitalization program, which maintained over 6.5 miles of sidewalk, partnered with the Mahoning County Land Bank and Flying High to manage and care for vacant lots, and continued efforts in trash removal and property maintenance.
In 2025, EAG will explore the expansion of services with the city, including snow removal and parking management. Additionally, EAG will complete a commercial corridor market analysis in Warren, Chretien says.