Avon Lake Receives $75,000 EDA Investment to Drive Economic Recovery and Resiliency Plan

03/11/2024 – The Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded Avon Lake a $75,000 grant to bolster the city’s efforts in developing a robust Economic Recovery and Resiliency Plan. This initiative comes in response to the 2022 closure of the coal-fired power plant, which profoundly impacted Avon Lake and surrounding communities in the region.

The closure of the power plant is the catalyst behind the need for strategic planning to navigate economic challenges and foster resilience. The newly funded project will play a pivotal role in charting a path forward by providing a comprehensive strategy to address the economic environment.

Key components of the Economic Recovery and Resiliency Plan include:

Employment Geography and Sector Analysis: A thorough assessment of employment patterns and sectors will be conducted to identify areas of opportunity for economic growth and diversification.

Review of Zoning and Land Use Designations: The project will examine current zoning regulations and land use designations to ensure alignment with the city's economic development goals and identify any barriers to growth.

The culmination of these efforts will result in a set of actionable recommendations tailored to local leaders, empowering them to make informed decisions aimed at bolstering economic resilience and fostering growth.

"This investment from the Economic Development Administration is a significant step forward in our journey toward economic recovery and resilience," said Mayor Mark Spaetzel. "By leveraging this funding, we will develop a comprehensive strategy that not only addresses the challenges posed by the closure of the power plant but also lays the groundwork for a more resilient and diverse economy."

Upon implementation, the Economic Recovery and Resiliency Plan is expected to catalyze new opportunities and job creation throughout Avon Lake and the broader region. By capitalizing on emerging industries and fostering a business-friendly environment, the city aims to position itself for sustained economic vitality and prosperity.

For more information about the Economic Recovery and Resiliency Plan and updates on its progress, you can visit the website www.avonlake.org. Additionally, you can contact either Kelly La Rosa, Planning and Zoning Manager, City of Avon Lake, at (440) 930-4110 or via email at Klarosa@avonlake.gov, or Ted Esborn, Community Development Director, City of Avon Lake, at (440) 930-4167 or via email at Tesborn@avonlake.org. They