Ohio Governor, Local Leaders Celebrate Grand Opening of Revitalized Lima Business District

Local, regional and state officials gathered in downtown Lima on November 25, 2024, to celebrate the grand opening of a transformational project intended to revitalize the central business district.

The $4.3 million development, first announced in 2022, focuses on the preservation and renovation of three downtown buildings on Central Avenue, which will lead to the creation and retention of 90 jobs. The venture includes a new restaurant, an entrepreneurial and tech training center and numerous retail/shopping and professional service businesses.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine congratulated the local community, including the local developer, the central business district, and economic development groups, for their commitment to building a strong downtown.

“Renovating these once dilapidated, blighted buildings has rejuvenated Lima’s downtown, and I congratulate all the partners who worked to turn this area into a vibrant and welcoming center for the community,” said Governor DeWine. “The improvements here will impact Lima for years to come by attracting more economic development, improving quality of life, and making Lima a destination for visitors and those who are ready to put down roots.”

Tracie Sanchez, managing partner with the Lima Central District and a driving force in the redevelopment of downtown, said all three buildings are at near full capacity, breathing new life into the community.

“This block had many blighted buildings … and the goal was to revamp the area into an entertainment district – a destination place that would ultimately spark even more downtown revitalization.”

Ohio has long been home to many of the most economically dynamic and livable communities and urban centers this country offers. The State, JobsOhio and the Regional Growth Partnership recognize that some smaller and mid-sized cities that make Ohio culturally rich have struggled to compete as companies and talent migrate to major metro areas. These smaller communities are part of the social fabric of Ohio and a vital part of the State’s economy. They need resources that will better position them to attract more private investment and create new opportunities for their residents.

“Revitalizing Lima’s central business district has been a collaboration that combined public and private resources with the local vision of how to transform the central business district,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “Today, the once empty buildings downtown now provide new office space filled with innovative businesses, retail, a restaurant and more, bringing jobs and sparking economic growth along Central Avenue.” 

For communities to thrive, they must implement economic development projects that attract private investment and create jobs. The JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Program was created to help communities with catalytic development projects, primarily assisting distressed, small and mid-size cities with projects that fulfill a market need and represent a reinvestment in eligible cities.

Multiple Allen County business leaders and public officials also spoke to the significant benefits the project brings to downtown Lima:

State Representative Susan Manchester (R-Waynesville), Ohio House of Representatives, District 78

“It is an exciting day as we celebrate the Central District, made possible through the collective efforts and unwavering commitment of all those involved. It’s an honor and a joy to be part of a community that is invested in creating beautiful and safe spaces for the community now and for generations to come!”

Senate President Matt Huffman (R-Lima), Ohio Senate, District 12

“Downtown Lima is becoming what a downtown should be. Vibrant businesses and shops, and great places to call home. Downtown Lima will be more than a downtown, it will be a destination.”

Cindy Leis, President/CEO, Allen Economic Development Group

“It’s been a process but one well worth the time and effort. Without the assistance from the JobsOhio Vibrancy Grant, we may not be at this day of celebration for the Central District. The idea of cleaning up blight properties and redeveloping them in the City of Lima is a priority and we plan to continue our efforts.”

Sharetta Smith, Mayor, City of Lima

"We are thrilled to welcome new businesses to downtown Lima, as they bring fresh energy and opportunities to our community. Each new venture contributes to the vibrancy of our city, creating jobs and attracting visitors. Together, we are building a dynamic downtown that reflects the spirit and resilience of Lima."