Contact: Greene County Commissioners
724-852-5210
jsnyder@co.greene.pa.us
Greene County Secures $1.4 Million Grant for Business Incubator
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WAYNESBURG – With President Biden’s signature on the $1.5 Trillion Omnibus spending package, the Greene County Board of Commissioners celebrate securing a much needed $1,395,000 grant designated for a business incubator project in the Silveus Building in Waynesburg.
In collaboration with Waynesburg University, the incubator will provide workspace, services, access to industry experts and mentors to foster development of early-stage companies and create new jobs in Greene County.
“Waynesburg University is very excited for this project to become a reality. Our Entrepreneurial Leadership program was developed several years ago with a focus on strengthening problem solving skills. The Silveus Building plan is a wonderful next step to advance the work we are doing by engaging and supporting the Greene County Community, as well,” stated Stacey Brodak, Vice President Institutional Advancement and University Relations, Waynesburg University.
The Silveus Building, located at 30 West High Street, was constructed in 1926. Currently, most of the building is unoccupied due to its condition. The building was purchased by the Greene County Commissioners in 2019 with the intention of using it for county purposes. Most recently, county economic development discussions have advanced the desire to create a business incubator. The funding will be, in large part, used to bring the Silveus Building up to current safety and code requirements as well as facilitate building design changes for its new purpose.
The building is structurally sound but requires modifications and repairs. Another key issue with the Silveus Building and its adjoining neighbor (Ben Franklin Building) is the lack of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access. ADA ramps and an elevator tower are required to correct this problem. Renovations are estimated to take 18-24 months.
Engineering studies are already complete and the following work will be finished in order to reuse the building for the expansion of county space and a business incubator:
• Abate all hazardous materials
• Install new passenger elevator tower
• Renovate basement level to include new egress stair tower, ADA restrooms, and new finishes
• Renovate first floor, second and third floor levels to include ADA access and restrooms and ramp to neighboring building
• Provide new HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems; upgrade sprinkler systems
• Install new fire-tower-stairways; mechanical rooms
• Provide structural repairs as needed; exterior repairs, brick repointing and cleaning
• Install new window systems and roof
“Obviously, we are enthusiastic about this opportunity and excited about our partnership with Waynesburg University. As we continue efforts to diversify the economic drivers in Greene County, this business incubator will give entrepreneurs access to reasonably priced start-up space, access to resources from partnerships with the university, businesses, industries, and workforce and career development organizations. It’s a great opportunity never before available in Greene County,” said Commissioner Mike Belding.
“We are committed to working with state and federal legislators to benefit Greene County. The commissioners would like to thank Congressman Guy Reschenthaler and his staff for their assistance in earmarking two Greene County projects for funding. Leadership working together for the community is important in growing our economic footprint in Greene County,” Commissioner Betsy McClure said.
The commissioners appreciate all those who have and will continue to support new initiatives in our communities and county that are vital to making Greene County a better place to live, learn, work, and play.