Port A. EconDev group hears reports, endorses glass park / By Martha Knight

The Port Allegany Area Economic Development Corp. was updated on some of its ongoing projects last Thursday night, at its first meeting since June. The group observes a summer recess, then resumes a monthly meeting schedule beginning in September.

Pat Bodamer, who has spearheaded downtown cleanup, façade painting and window display efforts, reported on the new seasonal banners that will be mounted on street lights.

Additional measures to make the downtown area festive in the holidays were mentioned. Christmas lights, a lighting contest, a Santa Claus cottage on the Square, a return of the skating area on the Square, music downtown, caroling by choirs and other singers and hot chocolate were some of the ideas suggested.

Treasurer Susan Carlson, presiding in the absence of president Jim Carlson and vice-president Bill Burleson, reported on the status of a boat launch in Roulette, the first such facility to be created as a local water trail is being developed along the Allegheny River.

Carlson said she had been talking to officials involved and had assured them that the funding is available when needed. The Potter County Conservation District is the lead agency in the project. PAAEDC is funding it up to $6,000, and Mick Caulkins is contributing in-kind service in the form of equipment use and labor.

Carlson and the promotions committee, headed by Bob Briggs, reported on the Port Allegany Main Street Facebook page and other promotional efforts. Carlson said the Facebook page “supports the business community with positive images of the town.” She noted that people had been pledging support for the Serenity Glass Park, with the pledge total now standing at $3,800. “Like” clicks from viewers had reached 489.

Since Wednesday afternoon’s public announcement of the Serenity Glass Park, planned for the area at 4-6 North Main, the intersection with Mill street, “a new opportunity” had arisen, to utilize a wall of the former teen center/barber shop for a display made of many 12-inch glass blocks, Carlson announced.

The blocks could include old ones, those of designs no longer produced as well as some that are in the current product line. They could be donated by the present owners, or purchased by donors; some could be inscribed, for a fee. The display could also incorporate children’s art work, as Carlson described the project.

Also discussed was how to utilize flowing water in the project. The park complex will utilize the small business building and the vacant space where the Grand Theatre was razed this past summer. The property is owned by the McKean County Housing and Redevelopment Authority.

After some discussion, under new business, of how to handle finances and continue developing the project, Carlson called for some action by the group indicating its involvement. Mary Mensch offered a motion of support for the Serenity Glass Park project, which was adopted.

The project is currently in a design phase, until April 1, 2015. The design committee, headed by Carlson, welcomes proposals and concept ideas.