JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Grant Paves the Way for Village of Dennison Downtown Revitalization Efforts

CLEVELAND, Ohio, October 31, 2024—Today represents a significant milestone with the announcement of the redevelopment of 221 Grant Street in downtown Dennison. The facility, situated at the “gateway” to downtown Dennison, will be anchored by Ember Home Care, a medical staffing company occupying at least 3,000 square feet of the 8,200-square-foot building. The renovation plans also feature office space, apartments, and retail space on the ground floor. The project is projected to be completed by October 2025.

This development lays a foundation for future growth, fostering new energy and opportunities in downtown Dennison.

“Once a vital refueling depot for the nation’s railway system, the Village of Dennison has a rich history as a center of economic prosperity,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “Revitalizing 221 Grant Street at the gateway to the community will act as a catalyst attracting businesses and jobs while creating a more vibrant downtown Dennison.”

“Redeveloping this building will bring an anchor tenant to the middle of the Village of Dennison as well as new office and retail space that will spark economic opportunity,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “This project accelerates a renaissance in Dennison that will lay the foundation for future growth and generate more energy and job creation downtown.”  

Dennison Mayor Greg DiDonato spearheaded the project in collaboration with Lois Grandison, KCK Properties LTD and President of Ember Home Care, to ensure a bright future for the downtown area. The team worked with JobsOhio and Team NEO to bring the project to fruition.

“This will have a huge impact on our newly revitalized downtown, and will bring more jobs to the downtown area,” said Mayor Greg DiDonato.  “It will enhance the tourism growth from the Dennison Depot Museum and our popular eateries and local businesses. We are grateful to Lois Grandison for her investment into her hometown to make a difference in the future of Dennison." 

A total of almost $2 million will be invested. KCK plans to create and retain at least 12 jobs with the project. Tenants to the revitalized building will include three local establishments, Over the Rail Diner, Timis Twin Cities, and Mission Nutrition.

“It is an exciting time in the Village of Dennison and this building will complete the vision of the square at the corner of N. 3rd and Grant St.,” stated Lois Grandison, “This project has been a team effort with V2 Architects, Benchmark Construction and W.E. Quicksall & Associates."

The project is supported with a $700,000 JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Grant. The program offers competitive grants for development projects that help transform areas within a distressed community. Eligible projects include mixed-use projects, real estate development projects, and operated share spaces that meet the JobsOhio project criteria.

About Team NEO

Team NEO is a private, nonprofit economic development organization that ignites economic vibrancy, fosters sustainable growth, and champions equitable prosperity. As a designated JobsOhio Network Partner, we collaborate across all 14 counties in the Northeast Ohio Region to create strategies to attract and retain companies, drive innovation, cultivate a skilled workforce, advance market-ready sites, and promote and engage the region. To learn how Team NEO helps make Northeast Ohio more competitive, visit northeastohioregion.com. 

About JobsOhio

JobsOhio, Ohio's private nonprofit economic development corporation, enhances company growth and personnel development through business attraction, retention, and expansion across ten competitive industry sectors. With a team of seasoned professionals, JobsOhio utilizes a comprehensive network to foster talent production in targeted industries and attract talent through Find Your Ohio. Collaborating with seven regional partners, including Dayton Development Coalition, Lake to River Economic Development, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, One Columbus, REDI Cincinnati, Regional Growth Partnership, and Team NEO, JobsOhio delivers world-class customer service to provide companies with a competitive advantage. Learn more at www.jobsohio.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook.

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