Sharon receives $800,000 for round three of ARP funds
The city of Sharon has announced on Wednesday that it has secured nearly $800,000 in the third round ARP funds. These funds will be used for various revitalization projects in the city.
These projects include a riverfront entertainment complex at Quaker Steak & Lube, a co-op kitchen incubator at Laurel Technical Institute's Sharon Campus, a book and gift shop, Sharon skyline facade projects and a second location of Julian's Bar and Grille out of Meadville.
City Manager, Bob Fiscus says the city is funding a total of 11 projects.
"We are really focused on dynamic choices in our grant decisions to help build up our business community with the ARPA funds," Fiscus said.
The riverfront entertainment complex will be located on the former Tully's side of Quaker Steak and Lube.
Additionally, there will be upgrades to the Sugar Shack Satellite Bar including a permanent event platform including a meeting space over the former Tully's site not just for Quaker Steak, but for the city and community as a whole.
The new Julian's Bar and Grille will be located at 234 East State St. in the former Lulu Beans Cafe space in downtown Sharon. The restaurant will offer a large gourmet burger menu, as well as keto, paleo, vegetarian and vegan options.
Facade improvements include upgrades and restorations to Gilbert's Risk Solutions, The Winner Inc, Lisac Properties and Thyme in Your Kitchen.
Webb Winery on Sharpsville Avenue will also be able to expand its business thanks to ARP funds with upgrades such as a larger location for wine production and storage as well as a wine testing lab and office area.
Future plans for the former Billy's Black and Gold location includes the creation of an additional tasting room and retail space along with a large event area overlooking the tank room giving opportunities to for tours of the production and wine processing facilities.
The co-op kitchen incubator for Laurel Technical Institute includes a rentable commercial kitchen, walk-in coolers and restaurant space for both the culinary school and the general public. The culinary program will also be expanded upon.
A new business, Wandering Soul Books, Gifts & Furniture will be coming to 142 East State Street with plans for a book club, art classes and a wide variety of workshops and author events.
Another new business coming to the area is Stylishly You Salon & Boutique at 19 North Water Avenue. The salon will be used to support area designers and entrepreneurs with their apparel and accessories created locally and regionally.
Additionally, it will provide barbering, cosmetology and aesthetic services.
Finally, Evolve on East State Street will be expanded with the completion of a training turf area and addition of kettlebell equipment and to support the hiring of additional staff.
The city received a total of $775,726 in ARP funds in the third round
