McNally details development of downtown, city in today's annual address

YOUNGSTOWN

Mayor John A. McNally put the spotlight on downtown during his State of the City address, but added that his administration is looking to develop businesses in other parts of Youngstown.

McNally, a Democrat, spoke of ongoing work to revitalize the Wick Building and Wells Building on West Federal Street as well as plans to improve the Gallagher Building on Commerce Street.

That’s “in excess of $20 million in commitments” for downtown, McNally, mayor since January 2014, said during his 23-minute speech today.

The city provided funding to help with the development of Wick and Wells.

“We need to be a bridge like we did” with those two projects, McNally said. “Without the city’s help, I don’t think those two projects would be happening.”

He also discussed the proposed construction of a DoubleTree Hotel at the Stambaugh Building on East Federal Street and plans to turn the former Wean United Building and nearby open space along the Mahoning River into a park with an amphitheater behind the city-owned Covelli Centre.

“Interest in downtown Youngstown is, indeed, very strong,” McNally said.

There are also plans for two companies to move into city business parks, with announcements expected in the next 90 days, and a larger business possibly coming to Youngstown by the end of the year, McNally said.

Read more of his remarks in Saturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.