Allegheny River, rolling hills, and an extensive trail network, Armstrong County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a promising destination for businesses looking to establish themselves in a growing region. County Commissioner, Anthony Shea asserts, “The pump is primed within the county to accommodate a lot of growth, and it’s ready for the taking.” DIVERSE AND UNITED COMMUNITIES Commissioner Shea emphasizes Armstrong County’s strong sense of community, which he notes is its defining characteristic.“Our county has so many little ecosystems. Each area is very unique, it has its own personality. Whether you’re in Leechburg, whether you’re in Apollo, we have just so many little gems throughout the county,” he touts. Each town has its own unique way of bringing people together, with a myriad of events and festivals, from Kittanning’s Christmas Market to Leechburg’s holiday-themed events, to Ford City’s ethnic festivals and Dayton’s Amish heritage.“Each area has its own distinct flavors,” he adds. “Our communities all stick up for each other. When somebody’s down the whole community gets together. There’s no place like here where everybody comes together for the common good.” ECONOMIC AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Armstrong County is prepared for economic growth, with infrastructure projects and strategic development plans in place. Darren Alviano, Director of Planning and Development emphasizes,“We want to see industries and companies come here that provide good family sustaining wages. We want these jobs in which workers can afford to have a nice, comfortable life in the manufacturing sector.” He highlights the county’s four industrial parks, including the flagship RIDC Armstrong Innovation Park, developed in partnership with the Regional Industrial Development Corporation (RIDC). “They are the largest industrial developer in southwestern Pennsylvania and perhaps in the state,” he depicts. “Being a small economic agency, we have partnered with them. We’re relying on their expertise and knowledge in the field of growing industrial parks, 43 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 03 ARMSTRONG COUNTY, PA
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