WARREN, Ohio – Anthony Trevena, executive director of the Western Reserve Port Authority, discussed the agency’s evolving role in real estate development and the complex challenges involved in preparing the site for the new Kimberly-Clark manufacturing facility in Trumbull County.
Trevena explained how the port authority shifted beyond traditional financing tools such as bonds and incentives to actively acquire, manage and redevelop distressed properties across the region. By purchasing buildings and land that might otherwise remain blighted, the agency can clean up sites, stabilize neighborhoods and return properties to productive private-sector use.
The Kimberly-Clark project marked one of the port authority’s most demanding efforts, Trevena said, involving environmental issues, utility negotiations and significant financial commitments. The agency faced major hurdles, including challenges with gas rates, environmental remediation and infrastructure planning before the project could move forward.
Despite the obstacles, Trevena said the project ultimately united multiple organizations — including regional development groups, local governments and community partners — to bring the investment across the finish line.
He said the effort demonstrated how collaboration across the Mahoning Valley can help transform challenging properties into major economic development opportunities.