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LEWISTOWN -- Downtown Lewistown is experiencing a period of steady renewal as new businesses open, existing storefronts expand, and local partnerships invest in long-term revitalization.
"We're seeing both new businesses opening and others moving on, which is part of the natural cycle of growth and change," said Rhonda Kelley, executive director of the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce. "Our downtown area is home to a diverse mix of locally owned restaurants, retail shops, service providers, and businesses offering entertainment and creative experiences that contribute to the unique character of our community."
In recent years, a wave of redevelopment and community projects has helped reshape the heart of Lewistown. One of the most visible additions is the Geisinger School of Nursing, which has brought more students, staff, and visitors downtown. "It's made a real difference in supporting our local businesses," Kelley said.
Several local developers have invested heavily in converting larger, once-vacant buildings into smaller, more functional spaces for new tenants. Façade improvement grants, administered by Downtown Lewistown, Inc., have also played a key role in revitalizing storefronts and encouraging private investment. The combination of public and private effort, Kelley said, is transforming how people experience downtown.
"The redevelopment efforts we've seen are led by people who truly believe in their community," she said. "Those projects have made downtown more attractive and functional, and they're helping build momentum."
The Chamber of Commerce, Kelley noted, has taken an active role in supporting this momentum through outreach and education. "We partner with the Mifflin County Industrial Development Corporation to host Entrepreneurial Meet-ups--casual gatherings where local business owners can connect, share ideas, exchange resources, and discuss challenges," she said.
The Chamber also works closely with Downtown Lewistown, Inc. on initiatives like the JRV Business Hub, an online resource at jrvbusinesshub.com that guides new and existing entrepreneurs through business development steps. "We want to make sure anyone looking to start or grow a business here knows where to turn," Kelley said.
Workshops offered by the Chamber cover topics such as marketing, workforce development, and branding. "We're trying to equip local business owners with the tools they need to succeed," she said.
As these efforts take hold, the impact is being felt not only in the business community but among residents and visitors. "It's been exciting to hear the reactions of people as they experience downtown Lewistown, whether for the first time or after being away for a while," Kelley said.
She credited the downtown planter project, led by community volunteer Sara Buffington, for helping change the look and feel of the area. "The vibrant planters have brought new life to our streets and caught the attention of both visitors and locals alike," Kelley said. "They've really transformed the appearance of downtown."
Beyond aesthetics, Kelley said the community's spirit of welcome has been just as important. "It's heartwarming to hear business owners share how warmly they've been welcomed," she said. "Just today, a new business owner told me how touched they were by the support they've received."
That enthusiasm extends to those with long-standing ties to the region. "Even my own grown children, when they return home, are amazed by the positive changes downtown and the renewed energy in the air," Kelley said. "There's a genuine sense of pride returning to our residents, and it shows."
Still, challenges remain. Housing is one of the biggest expenses. "Many of our underutilized or blighted buildings could be rehabilitated--or in some cases, razed--to create much-needed housing options," Kelley said. "Commercial space is also in high demand, and more of it could be activated to support new businesses."
Kelley said the Borough of Lewistown is working to address blight and improve infrastructure, both essential for attracting more investment. "Those efforts are laying the groundwork for future growth and creating new opportunities for development in our downtown area," she said.
Looking ahead, several large-scale projects promise to add new momentum. "Renovations to the Historic Courthouse and the Mifflin County Library, once completed, will provide valuable resource spaces for entrepreneurs, supporting educational and business-related needs," Kelley said.
Downtown Lewistown, Inc. also recently earned the Main Street Matters designation, a recognition that will bring new support for small businesses and enhance the area's vitality.
"Our vibrant calendar of downtown events--First Friday, Lucky Friday, Goose Day, Kid Connection, the Festival of Ice, and others--continues to grow," Kelley said. "These events bring more people downtown, giving businesses valuable opportunities to connect with the community and showcase what they have to offer."
That cycle of energy--business investment, community events, and local pride--continues to push Lewistown forward. As Kelley put it, "Downtown Lewistown is evolving, and there's a real sense that the best is yet to come."