Press Release: Howden-Buffalo Community Update

Press Release: Joy Development Request for Proposal Community Update

For Immediate Release

October 21, 2024

Media Contact: James C. Shively

330.401.3623

jcshively@tuscedc.com

Dover, OH – September 27, 2024, proposals were due for the transformative redevelopment of the Joy Development Site in downtown New Philadelphia. This significant project, managed by the Economic Development and Finance Alliance (EDFA), aims to breathe new life into the former Howden Buffalo Site. The 17.48-acre industrial site, located at the edge of the central business district, holds immense potential for a mixed-use development that will enhance the vibrancy of the downtown area.

The EDFA sought innovative proposals that blend residential, commercial, and community spaces, creating a dynamic environment for residents, businesses, and visitors. The RFP invites experienced developers, anchor tenants, and entrepreneurs to submit detailed plans, including residential unit counts, commercial space breakdowns, energy-efficiency components, and creative design features that align with New Philadelphia’s Master Vision Plan 2030. Site Selection Group, economic development consultants, advised EDFA that anchor tenants would be crucial to the success of a rural mixed-used development.

With the backing of JobsOhio, and TeamNEO, this development project offers a unique opportunity to address the local housing shortage while enhancing downtown’s appeal as a hub for living, working, and socializing. The EDFA published its Request for Proposals with the following definitions of participants, criteria, and review process for experienced Developers and Anchor Tenants:

“For the purposes of this RFP, an anchor tenant is defined as a real estate project that is a major or prominent tenant, often a well-known business, that occupies a significant portion of the development.

Evaluation Criteria for Anchor Tenants or other proposals

Includes but is not limited to: 

-Overall strength of the proposed plan

-Development plan’s consistency with New Philadelphia’s development goals and objectives and the Joy Redevelopment site’s current market study

-Capacity and ability to complete the proposed plan

-The anchor budget is realistic and can be implemented without requiring public sector assistance beyond that identified within the submitted proposal

-Financial viability and stability

-Quality and creativity of the vision and concept

-Experience and track record in similar projects

-Potential economic and community impact (Economic Development Finance Alliance of Tuscarawas County, 2024)”

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“For the purposes of this RFP, a developer is a professional or company that specializes in planning, designing, and constructing properties that combine various types of uses within a single development project.

Evaluation Criteria For Developers

Includes but is not limited to: 

-Overall strength of proposed development plan

-Development plan’s consistency with New Philadelphia’s development goals and objectives and the Joy Redevelopment site’s current market study

-Inclusion of key design or other elements that will strengthen the vibrancy of New Philadelphia’s downtown.

-Capacity of development team and ability to complete the proposed development plan within the specified project schedule and budget.

-Development budget is realistic and can be implemented, without reverting to additional public sector assistance, beyond that identified within the submitted development proposal.  (Economic Development Finance Alliance of Tuscarawas County, 2024)”

The RFP published on August 9th, 2024, cited a deadline to submit by September 27th, 2024, gave the following disclaimer, and outlined the following review process:

Disclaimer:

The Economic Development Finance Alliance of Tuscarawas county (EDFA) is the sole owner of the former Howden-Buffalo property marketed in this request for proposal (RFP). While the EDFA is committed to working in concert with affected stakeholders to the best of its ability, the EDFA reserves the exclusive right to make all decisions regarding the sale and future use of the property. All proposals will be considered at the discretion of the EDFA, and the issuance of this RFP implies no guarantees or obligations.

Review process:

“A committee will review all proposals and select the best proposal(s) that meet the above criteria. The committee will then detail its recommendation to the Economic Development Finance Alliance of Tuscarawas County. The Economic Development Finance Alliance will be asked to consider the committee’s recommendation. (Economic Development Finance Alliance of Tuscarawas County, 2024)”

In response to the recent Request for Proposals (RFP) for the development of the Joy Development Site, the Economic Development and Finance Alliance (EDFA) has received six diverse submissions. These proposals come from an array of entities, including an entrepreneur, an anchor tenant, a small business owner, a commercial real estate agent, a housing contractor, and a non-profit organization. Each proposal reflects a unique approach to the site’s potential, aligning with the RFP's focus on creating a multi-use development that integrates residential, commercial, and community spaces. The variety of submissions highlights the broad interest in contributing to the revitalization of this pivotal site in downtown New Philadelphia.

To ensure a thorough and objective evaluation of the proposals, and being consistent with the RFP EDFA has assembled a review committee composed of experts in various fields. This committee includes an architect, a mixed-use developer, a certified economic developer, a state project manager, a representative from the City of New Philadelphia, members of the EDFA Board, and TCEDC/EDFA staff. The committee will use a scoring matrix based on the RFP’s evaluation criteria to assess each proposal, focusing on the strength of the development plan, alignment with local goals, financial viability, and potential economic impact. This process will determine the EDFA’s next steps in selecting partners to bring this transformative project to life.

Marla Akridge, Executive Director/President, TCEDC/EDFA

Executive Director of the TCEDC and the EDFA, Marla Akridge says the following of the project's progress, “Remediation of this property has been completed. However, we still have significant obstacles to overcome with removing concrete to prep the site. This site’s location represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a community inside a community to live work and play. Location, Location, Location!”

Jon Elsasser, Chairman of the Economic Development Finance Alliance of Tuscarawas County

Chairman of the EDFA Jon Elssaser says the following on the progress of the site, “EDFA has a phenomenal track record with brownfield sites and repurposing them. These six proposals represent an opportunity to make this a transformative project in the heart of New Philadelphia.”

Sources

Economic Development Finance Alliance of Tuscarawas County. (2024). Joy Redevelopment Request For Proposals (2024). Dover, OH: Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation. Retrieved from tuscedc.com/joydevelopmentrfp

Altor Solutions To Build New Facility in Newcomerstown

Altor Solutions Plans to Develop State-of-the-art facility to Accommodate Growth

Newcomerstown, Ohio – May 23, 2024 - Altor Solutions, formerly Plymouth Foam, is a leading foam manufacturing company with 18 manufacturing sites across North America. It announces its relocation to a new state-of-the-art facility in Newcomerstown, Ohio. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for Altor Solutions and the Newcomerstown community, fostering the region's economic growth and job opportunities.

The new facility, with a total investment exceeding $23 million, will be constructed to the highest standards, reflecting Altor Solutions’ commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Situated at 600 Enterprise Drive in Newcomerstown, the facility will serve as a cornerstone of Altor Solutions’ operations and contribute to the local economy through job creation and increased capital investment.

The Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation engaged Agracel Inc. to assist in the project, and Altor Solutions selected them as the developer. Agracel specializes in meeting the needs of manufacturers and has offices across the Midwest, South, and Southeastern United States. It has been instrumental in this project. Agracel will work in partnership with Lehman Daman to manage the construction of the new facility. After completion, Agracel will lease the facility to Altor Solutions.

 Jason Kester, Regional Development Director for Agracel’s Ohio Valley Office, said of the project, “We are thrilled to add Altor Solutions to our portfolio of clients and grateful for the opportunity to help them establish this new facility in Newcomerstown.  A big thank you to the Village of Newcomerstown and the Tuscarawas EDC for your partnership on this project.”

Key facts about Altor Solutions’ expansion to Newcomerstown include:

• Total Investment: The new facility's total land and building costs will surpass $18 million, with an additional $5 million dedicated to capital investment in cutting-edge machinery and equipment.

• Job Retention: Altor Solutions’ move to Newcomerstown will retain 26 full-time equivalent jobs, ensuring continuity for skilled workers in the area.

• Annual Payroll: The retained jobs will contribute significantly to the local economy, with an annual payroll totaling $1,068,903, providing stability and support for local families.

• New Job Opportunities: In addition to job retention, Altor Solutions’ expansion will create three new full-time equivalent positions, adding to the diversity and vibrancy of the local workforce.

• Job Positions: The newly created positions could include opportunities for welders, CNC operators, mold operators, expander operators, and fork truck drivers, offering a range of career paths and skill development prospects. 

Local officials and leaders have welcomed Altor Solutions’ decision, recognizing the economic benefits and long-term prosperity it will bring to Newcomerstown and the surrounding areas.

Mayor Pat Cadle expressed, "We are thrilled to welcome Altor Solutions to Newcomerstown. Their decision to relocate here underscores the resilience and vitality of our community. Retaining existing jobs and adding new opportunities is a testament to our skilled workforce and the collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors. Altor Solutions’ investment in our town will not only bolster our economy but also strengthen the fabric of our community, providing stability and prosperity for generations to come."

George Brode, President of the Newcomerstown Community Improvement Corporation (CIC), added to the Mayor’s sentiments, "The Newcomerstown CIC is thrilled to witness the Altor Solutions Expansion project unfold. This development signifies economic growth for our community and highlights the confidence businesses have in our area. It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of our local workforce and the collaborative spirit of our community. We look forward to this project's positive impact on our town's prosperity and future opportunities."

A groundbreaking event for this project is scheduled for Thursday, May 30th, at 10:00 a.m., at the new Plymouth location on Enterprise Drive in Newcomerstown, Ohio. This event is open to the public, and media members are encouraged to attend.

AGENDA

Jason Kester from Agracel will emcee event.

___________________

WELCOME

Jason Kester, Agracel

REMARKS

Mayor Patrick Cadle, Newcomerstown

George Brode, CIC Newcomerstown

Senator Al Landis

Brian Blackford, Altor Solutions

CLOSING

Jason Kester, Agracel

Media Contact:

James C. Shively - Director of Business of Development - 330.401.3623 - jcshively@tuscedc.com

LOCATION OF PROJECT & PROJECT RENDERINGS

 

Press Release - ConnecTusc - July 19, 2022

ConnecTusc Campaign Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporations (TCEDC) Creates ConnectTusc for Better Broadband Access

Dover, OH. (July 19, 2022) – TCEDC and numerous partners are participating in a 14-week, fast-track program to build a plan to expand broadband access across the county. Broadband Ohio will support community leaders as they gather information about current broadband access and options in Tuscarawas County.

“We understand the growing need for reliable internet access. Whether remote learning, virtual doctor visits, or work-from-home opportunities, every home, business, and farm should have reliable internet access that can handle the demands of multiple devices.”

Tuscarawas County joins BroadbandOhio and the Benton Institute in the Broadband Accelerator program with four other counties in the State.

“Due to previous surveys and resident input, it is evident that not every Tuscarawas County resident, business, and farmer has reliable broadband internet accessibility. Our children’s educational future, access to healthcare, agricultural efforts and economic development are dependent upon high speed internet access,” said Executive Director Marla Akridge.

We have launched the ConnecTusc campaign as an effort to promote our survey to document the need for broadband investment. This data will help us show prospective broadband internet service providers, where their services are most needed. By taking the survey you can help us better understand, where broadband services are lacking. This data will help us secure grant funding for deployment.

Please “TAKE FIVE” and complete this survey to assist us with data. Go to tuscedc.com/connectusc or scan the QR Code to help us get up to date data for a better understanding of broadband for Tuscarawas County.

Media Contact:

James C. Shively

jcshively@tuscedc.com

(330) 401-3623

If wi-fi is available, please remember to sign in before taking the survey

You can also click the QR Code to go to our survey!