Downtown Shenandoah, Inc. celebrated a significant milestone on Thursday with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Shenandoah Center for Education, Business, & the Arts (CEBA).
The event unfolded at the future site of the center, an empty lot located across from the Downtown headquarters in the 100 Block of North Main Street in Shenandoah.
A culmination of a decade-long endeavor, CEBA aims to provide a comprehensive array of resources for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners. The facility is set to offer diverse programming, training, and mentorship opportunities. Moreover, it will accommodate makers and artists, house a business incubator, offer community event spaces, culinary makerspaces, a communal computer area, and a conference room.
Karen Kenderline, President of Downtown Shenandoah Inc. Board, led the ceremony, expressing gratitude to all contributors. Notable among them were Mid Penn Bank, Scott Herring, Tom & Pam Twardzik, First Federal Foundation, PPL, Mark's Supply, and the Anczarski family. Kenderline stated that 40% of the projects funding has come through private donations.
Kenderline shared a message from Eric Mika, a past DSI President, who commended the organization's unwavering dedication and leadership, remarking on the transformation of Shenandoah through concerted community efforts.
Several dignitaries addressed the gathering, including Pennsylvania State Senator Dave Argall, State Representatives Dane Watro and Tim Twardzik, Shenandoah Council President Joseph Boris, and NEPA Alliance CEO Jeff Box.
Senator Argall highlighted the magnitude of the investment in downtown Shenandoah, emphasizing the significance of the occasion. He humorously remarked on the project's impact, likening it to the invention of pierogies in Representative Twardzik's grandmother's kitchen.
Representative Twardzik reflected on the historic nature of the day, acknowledging the journey and collective efforts that brought the project to fruition. "What a wonderful day it is in Shenandoah. It's just enormous project that's taken so long and so many people work so hard. It just shows you that we may not win the game but we never lose the fight in Shenandoah". Twardzik said.
To mark the groundbreaking moment, Kenderline, Senator Argall, Representatives Watro and Twardzik, Council President Boris, DSI Executive Director Susan Williams, former DSI Executive Director Mary Luscavage, and Tom Twardzik of Mrs. T's donned hard hats and wielded golden shovels, symbolizing the official commencement of construction.
Wagman Construction, Inc. has been named the general contractor for the project.
“At Wagman Construction, we're thrilled to partner with Downtown Shenandoah, Inc. on this cutting-edge project. It's not every day you get to build something that will have such a positive impact on so many lives. From fostering young minds to providing a platform for local businesses and artists, CEBA will truly be a space where education, commerce, and creativity can converge. We're excited to bring this vision to life!” says Jan Wagner, President of Wagman Construction.
The grand opening of CEBA is targeted for 2025.
Story/Photos/Video by J. Reed / Skook News
