EDFA’s Impact Continues To Drive Growth in Tuscarawas county
Greetings, supporters of the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation.
As spring unfolds, we are thrilled to share our vibrant community's latest updates and happenings. This month, we spotlight our invaluable partner, the Economic Development & Finance Alliance (EDFA). Formerly known as the Tuscarawas County Port Authority (TCPA), this volunteer board’s historical and ongoing contributions have driven industrial growth in our region.
EDFA has been at the forefront of fostering economic prosperity in Tuscarawas County. Through strategic planning and collaborative efforts, they have facilitated the establishment and expansion of numerous businesses, created job opportunities, and stimulated economic vitality. From attracting new investments to providing crucial financial resources, EDFA's dedication to our community's development is commendable and worth celebrating.
Although the name has changed, EDFA is still designated as the Ohio Port Authority for Tuscarawas County. EDFA plays a crucial role in promoting real estate and business development through several key mechanisms:
Infrastructure Development: EDFA invests in infrastructure projects, allocating site development funds in its budget yearly to build utility infrastructure or address other needs in local real estate development projects. EDFA also convenes parties and aids in the funding of studies needed to improve our local transportation networks. These developments enhance connectivity and accessibility, making the region more attractive to businesses looking to establish or expand their operations.
Industrial Parks/Zones: Since gaining ownership of the Reeves Mill Business Park in Dover, EDFA has invested $9.4 million in renovating and maintaining this local industrial park. Currently, this park is the home of Extreme Trailer LLC and Deflecto and has room for future expansion and growth. Industrial parks are designated areas that allow EDFA and other State Agencies to offer business incentives, like tax abatements and loan and grant programs. Industrial Parks help businesses by giving them ideal locations for utilities and access to logistical advantages like proximity to transportation hubs. EDFA helps attract businesses seeking conducive manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution environments by providing ready-to-develop land, industrial buildings, and supportive policies.
Real Estate Development: EDFA engages in real estate development initiatives, including the acquisition, redevelopment, and sale or lease of properties. They partner with private developers or government agencies to revitalize and repurpose former industrial sites or develop mixed-use projects integrating commercial, residential, and recreational spaces. EDFA owns, maintains, and is preparing a new Request for Proposals (RFP) for the former Joy Howden Buffalo site in New Philadelphia. This RFP will allow interested developers to pitch their ideas for this important site to the community. EDFA has partnered with private landowners to market a North Dover site and an existing building in Newcomerstown to potential leads provided by Team NEO, our regional JobsOhio partner. EDFA convened utility and transportation partners to present the Dover site to Schaeffler and the Newcomerstown building to Vienna Beef. Subsequently, they provided the financing mechanisms and incentives required to secure these historic opportunities for the community. These efforts create new business opportunities and contribute to revitalization and economic growth.
Trade and Export Promotion: EDFA actively promotes trade and export activities by facilitating international shipping and trade. EDFA owns and operates the Reeves Mill Logistics Warehouse (formerly located in the Reeves Mill Business Park) on Commercial SE Ave in New Philadelphia. Providing efficient order fulfillment operations, inventory, bills of lading, customs services, and trade-related infrastructure enables local companies to access global markets more easily. This fosters economic development by helping businesses expand their reach, generate revenue, and create local jobs. To learn more about the warehouse owned and operated by EDFA we published a newsletter in June 2022 you can read right here.
Business Support Services: Throughout the years, EDFA has offered various business support services to help companies navigate regulatory requirements, access financing, and identify growth opportunities. The Reeves Mill Business Park was formerly a business incubator that helped numerous local companies start up. A few success stories include HV Coil LLC, Extreme Trailer LLC, and Deflecto. EDFA has also been instrumental in establishing and managing the East Central Ohio Building Authority (ECOBA). ECOBA offers local access to permitting services that would otherwise go through the State of Ohio in Columbus. The ECOBA team has done a great job streamlining permitting processes, giving our local industrial and commercial projects a competitive edge. ECOBA boasts a quicker turnaround on permits than the State, eliminating time and money otherwise lost on projects that would sit in the queue awaiting approval for construction.
Overall, EDFA’s promotion of real estate and business development is grounded in its mission to enhance its region's economic competitiveness and resilience. Through strategic investments, partnerships, and supportive policies, EDFA plays a vital role in creating environments where businesses can thrive, communities can prosper, and economic opportunities can flourish.
Take a moment to meet the volunteer members of our EDFA Board!
Please join us in thanking the EDFA board members for their continued dedication to the community. Their passion for the region, their valuable expertise, and their desire to make a difference, fuels our organization to make a real impact in the lives of the residents of Tuscarawas County.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for some exciting events lined up this month:
Shark Tub Tuesday: Join us on April 23rd at the Buckeye Career Center starting at 6:00 pm for an exhilarating evening of entrepreneurial pitches and innovation. Witness aspiring entrepreneurs dive into the "shark tub" as they present their business ideas to a panel of seasoned experts. Don't miss this opportunity to support local talent and witness the birth of future success stories.
Virtual TVISP Meeting: Save the date for our virtual TVISP meeting on Thursday, April 25th at 8:00 am. Stay updated on the latest developments and initiatives driving Workforce Development in our community. Engage with other industry leaders, share insights, and explore collaborative opportunities to advance our region.
EDFA Meeting & Lecture by Dr. Albert M. Green: Join us at Kent State University at Tuscarawas’ Founder’s Hall Auditorium on Wednesday, April 24th, for an insightful lecture by Dr. Albert M. Green, Founder and CEO of AMG Consulting. Our monthly public EDFA meeting will commence after the lecture. Gain valuable insights from Dr. Green's expertise and participate in discussions to shape the future of economic development in our community.
As we continue to navigate the opportunities and challenges on our path to prosperity, let us remain united in our shared vision of a thriving Tuscarawas County. Together, we can build a brighter future for generations to come.
Warm regards,
JC Shively
Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation