Youngstown's Design Review Committee has approved plans for Penguin City Brewing, Stambaugh Auditorium and Buckeye Elks Lodge. 

Back in December, Penguin City Brewing announced its purchase of the 32,704 square foot Republic Warehouse at 460 East Federal Street. On Tuesday, the design committee approved Penguin City's plans to paint its building, add a patio and landscaping. The slogan "Tough Times Don't Last, Tough Cities Do" will be featured on the building's side along Federal Street. Repairing broken windows and other property improvements are also planned. 

Penguin City Brewing says the $3.7 million renovation will be done in phases. Phase 1 is the brewery and taproom. Phase 2 will be a restaurant and event center with an opening of Phase 1 slated for summer 2021.

The design committee also approved Ohio Urban Renaissance's plans to renovate the area of the former Buckeye Elks Lodge on 421 North Avenue. The non-profit organization plans to perform an exterior renovation, additions and site redesign. The plan includes walkways, landscaping, an outdoor event lawn and stage, pizza oven and terrace.


Ohio Urban Renaissance plans to use the area to help youth transition into adulthood. They would like to use the area to expand programming to include job training and skill development in the field of culinary arts.  Ohio Urban Renaissance says the garden improvements will provide a safe community space for their program participants and the local community to enjoy. By evening, the area will become a bier garden featuring a community-style brick pizza oven and live entertainment with local artists.


According to Ohio Urban Renaissance, the kitchen improvements will allow a fully functional commercial kitchen to support job training related to culinary arts, health and nutrition.

The total estimated cost for the project is $42,605. 

When it comes to Stambaugh Auditorium, the design committee approved the proposal to perform exterior changes. The proposal includes the removal and replacement of the Fifth Avenue monumental stairs and pavilion as well as restoration and replacement of existing limestone where it's needed. The plans also include the restoration of the facade and metal work on the building and the replacement of existing doors.