SHARON, Pa. – The Sharon Community Development Corp. announced Monday that it has hired Evan Gruver as its new main street manager.
The position focuses on advancing the city’s economic and community development goals by strengthening the downtown district and supporting local businesses, a news release states.
“Evan brings a genuine enthusiasm for Sharon and a strong foundation in relationship-building that is essential for this role,” said Angie Urban, executive director of the Sharon Community Development Corp. “The main street manager position is about showing up, listening to our business community and turning ideas into action. Evan understands that, and we’re confident he will be a valuable connector and advocate for downtown.”
The position supports the SCDC’s mission to facilitate economic and community development, enhance public spaces and honor the community’s cultural and industrial history while helping to guide the downtown through a period of transition and opportunity, the release states.
“Downtown Sharon is at an important moment, and this hire reflects our commitment to thoughtful, long-term revitalization,” said Tom Roberts, president of the Sharon Community Development Corp. Board of Directors. “By investing in dedicated leadership, we’re reinforcing our belief that strong partnerships, local entrepreneurship and a vibrant downtown are key to Sharon’s future.”
Gruver will help coordinate ongoing efforts to revitalize and promote the city’s downtown by working alongside local businesses, property owners, residents and community partners. His responsibilities will include business outreach and retention, marketing and branding initiatives, event coordination and fostering partnerships that encourage entrepreneurship, arts and cultural activity, distinctive shopping and dining and a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
“A strong downtown is essential to Sharon’s overall vitality, and the main street manager role plays a critical part in that work,” said Bob Fiscus, Sharon city manager. “Evan’s hiring reflects a shared commitment between the city and the Sharon Community Development Corp. to invest in leadership, collaboration and long-term revitalization. We’re excited to work alongside him as downtown Sharon continues to move forward.”
Gruver previously served as an admissions counselor at Penn State Shenango, where he worked closely with students, families and community partners.
“Working at Penn State Shenango gave me the chance to really fall in love with Sharon – its people, its energy and its potential,” Gruver said. “Coming back to town in this role feels a bit like a homecoming, and I couldn’t be more excited. I’m ready to roll up my sleeves, support local businesses and help make downtown a place people can’t wait to visit.”