SHARON, Pa. – The Sharon Community Development Corp. added its first two staff members in 2024, strengthening its ability to support community and economic development efforts.
The SCDC, based in the HopeCAT building on the Sharon’s West Hill, provides technical support and funding resources to entrepreneurs.
Central to its efforts is the revitalization of downtown Sharon, Pa., according to Angie Urban, executive director.
The SCDC partnered with Town Center Associates to collect data on the downtown business mix, building conditions and available spaces, and will use this information to guide decision-making in 2025.
To make downtown more inviting, the SCDC launched a façade improvement program. In partnership with the city of Hermitage, the program has provided over $35,000 in matching funds to businesses and property owners for exterior improvements.
The SCDC hosted several downtown events in 2024, including a Fourth of July fireworks display, a summer concert series, Small Business Saturday and the Night of Lights holiday celebration.
The SCDC’s long-term efforts include participation in updating the city’s comprehensive plan, which will lead to the creation of a five-year strategy and identify key projects to drive growth.
Photo: The Mercer County Courthouse in Mercer, Pa. Mr. Matté, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
