Second phase of revitalization project includes 3 new homes on Youngstown street
Community leaders and organization representatives celebrated completing the first phase of a major revitalization project on Bernard Street in Youngstown..
According to Ian Beniston, the executive director of the Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corporation, phase two of the Bernard Street’s new look is ready to begin.
The first completed phase of the project included building three new homes.
They’ve added sidewalks and cleared more than 500 cubic yards of debris on the street, now known as Cliff View.
Mayor Jamael Tito Brown, First Ward Councilman Julius Oliver and more project supporters recently spoke at the celebration on Bernard Street.
Beniston thanked all the Bernard Street project partners for their ongoing dedication from project to project.
“That’s been our recipe for success on all of these projects,” Beniston said. “So many of the partners that are listed today are partners that we’re working routinely with to bring projects like this to fruition. We can’t do it without all of them. Everyone has a role, and we support each other and ultimately make it happen.”
Austintown contractor Joe Koch Construction is handling both phases of the Bernard Street revitalization project.
The project also received support from The Raymond John Wean Foundation, City of Youngstown and the Glenwood Neighbors Business Association.
YNDC also broke ground on the second phase of a revitalization project which is expected to be completed by this summer.
“We cleaned up the street’s infrastructure and now we’re building three more houses,” Beniston said. “This is just one of many projects we have underway in some stage of the process right now, but it’s always good to start another one.”
The City of Youngstown’s HOME Investment Partnership and the First Ward’s American Rescue Plan funding helped pay for the project.
The vacant lots were assembled by and acquired from the Mahoning County Land Bank, according to YNDC.
PNC Bank provided construction financing for phase one; for the second phase of the project, Premier Bank in Youngstown provided the financing.
“We are proud to support the Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corporation as they work to improve the quality of life in Youngstown by building and encouraging investment in neighborhoods of choice for all,” wrote Premier Bank representatives in Youngstown.
Premier Bank also donated $25,000 for the Essential Home Repair program at YNDC.
“Together we can spread kindness and make the Mahoning Valley stronger,” Premier Bank representatives wrote.
YNDC is also working on adding six houses to Mineral Springs Avenue in Youngstown.
This story was originally published February 18, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
