Historic downtowns across the state have been the focus of both positive and negative developments and news as 2007 has progressed. Here is a review of some of what is happening in downtown Ohio:

Troy – A significant structure in downtown Troy, the Dye Building, has been sold to a development group, which intends to renovate the three-story building. The City of Troy is considering making a loan to the new owner to facilitate preservation work.  Click here for details.

Galion – Main Street Galion, the sole surviving charter downtown organization in the Ohio Main Street Program, has ended its 12-plus years of existence as a local Main Street program. In its heyday, the organization spearheaded an extensive re-building of the city’s Public Square and three blocks of commercial buildings.

Marietta – Distressing news was unveiled recently by a group of Marietta College students, whose survey documented 147 vacancies among 474 commercial and residential units in a section of downtown Marietta. The survey was sponsored by the local group, “Restore,” which is seeking to conduct a comprehensive revitalization initiative.

Greenville – This western Ohio county seat town is looking to create an architectural review ordinance for their downtown area. Mayor Greg Fraley was quoted as stating, "This will help protect the historic preservation of the downtown." "It will help protect the heritage of the downtown."  Click here to read more.

Warren – The Youngstown Vindicator reports that Downtown Warren is going “wireless” in an effort to attract businesses to their central city area. The $33,000 project is funded by a local foundation and the City of Warren, and future plans under consideration would take the network city-wide.

Chillicothe – Ohio’s first capital city has retained the services of a nationally-known downtown planning firm, Hyatt Palma, in their efforts to jumpstart revitalization. Downtown advocates are concerned about recent losses due to fire, as well as the continuing condition of the landmark Carlisle Building.  Click here for local news coverage.

Photo: Carlisle Building, Chillicothe - Seth Gaines/Creative Commons License