In The News

DCED acting secretary visits Mon Valley

Neil Weaver, acting secretary for the state Department of Community and Economic Development, got a firsthand look Monday at some investments made in the commonwealth’s manufacturing industry in the Mon Valley.

South Strabane housing continues in earth-moving stage

Massive amounts of earth are being moved near the intersection of Route 19 and Racetrack Road in South Strabane Township. It’s a hilly, 55 ½-acre tract scheduled to be home to 145 homes.

Work on the Burkett Manor residential project has been ongoing since early summer. The owner/developer, PA Finance II LLC of Myrtle Beach, S.C., plans to construct 102 patio homes and 43 town homes on that vacant property, which is south of Burkett Lane and east of Route 19 (Washington Road).

Family's emphasis on hydrogen fuels CGI's success

Eileen Zullo was in another country, doing consulting work, when she got a transformative phone call.

Her brother, Charles J. Zullo III, had died unexpectedly of a heart attack at age 40. He was a top executive of CGI International LLC, a group of companies based in Washington County. Charles was the only son among seven siblings, and the heir apparent to take over from his father, Charles II.

Joe's Bakery: an early-morning tradition in downtown Washington

Joe's Bakery is a sweet place specializing in sweet treats that foster sweet memories along North Main Street. It's where a customer can take their sweet time selecting from the delectable wares inside the showcases.

The owner/operator? Joe Vucic Jr. is an old-school baker and entrepreneur who displays an occasional crusty exterior, according to his staff of two. Six years of Army service, a city upbringing and decades as an independent merchant can lead to an element of crustiness. Yet, to those who know him, that tough side is a mere veneer.

Houston resident says yes to online dress business

Bywaters, 38, is the owner of Isn’t She Lovely Cache, an online boutique dress store she launched in March from her Houston home. The e-shop, on its Facebook page, pledges to have “a dress for every body type and every occasion.” Catering to cancer survivors is a primary focus of Isn’t She Lovely.

Her e-business (isntshelovelycache.com) is a successor to, and variation of, the bricks-and-mortar store Bywaters and a partner launched in Peters Township in March 2019. That Valley Brook Road location specialized in dresses for formal events. Think wedding, prom, homecoming.

Being a winemaker meeting his grape expectations

Great-grandfather Enrico DeLuca and grandfather Pasquale Borelli learned how to make wine in their native Italy, a pastime they continued – and passed on – after emigrating to the city of Pittsburgh more than a century ago. (Pasquale later moved to Bethel Park, where he had a wine cellar.)

Manufacturers group celebrates a golden existence

The manufacturing landscape of Washington County has changed. So has the organization representing it.

Steel, glass and other heavy industries no longer reign, making for a more diverse membership in the Washington County Manufacturers Association.

Perryman is in its element tackling new titanium projects

The president and CEO of Perryman Co. acknowledges that navigating the pandemic has been harrowing on occasion.

“Since we’re part of the critical infrastructure, we’ve continued to manufacture during the pandemic,” Frank Perryman Jr. said recently. “There has never been a day that we’ve shut down. But at times, it has been a struggle.

Precision Marshall cuts a deal for knife-making firm

The CEO of Precision Marshall was working to help cut a deal to acquire a Wisconsin knife-making company. For nearly two weeks, he thought a transaction was close to closing, but it didn’t happen, a frustrating circumstance that also was costing him beach time with his family.

Online auction firm gives Macy's building 'second chance'

Attention, local shoppers ... you may find deals, maybe steals, at the old Macy’s department store at Washington Crown Center.

Only it is no longer a Macy’s store, which the big-box chain shuttered in 2018. M@C Discount, an online bidding auction company, moved into the space in January – relocating from South College Street in Washington.

New pathway to connect Southpointe with Montour Trail

Nearly three decades ago, the first leg of the Montour Trail was constructed in Cecil Township, and since that time it’s expanded to become a 47-mile “necklace” around Pittsburgh, Montour Trail Council member Ned Williams said.

Now, the council is looking for “jewels” to connect to the popular biking and walking trail that meanders through suburban neighborhoods in Allegheny and Washington counties, Williams said.

Commissioners approve high-speed internet expansion along Route 40

High-speed broadband internet is being expanded to other parts of Route 40 in Washington County after it was announced last month that the service would be coming to Scenery Hill.

The county commissioners unanimously approved a contract with DQE Communications for the company to install broadband in the villages of Glyde and Beallsville during their Thursday afternoon meeting.

CNX reaches out to community with co-working spaces

Speaking from corporate offices that stand out among the ubiquitous hills of Southpointe, Nick Deluliis kicked off a recent tour of CNX Resources’ building by outlining one of the company’s missions.

“We want to invest in our region, and our region is Appalachia,” said the president and CEO of the natural gas exploration, development and production company. “We want to invest locally in tangible, impactful ways.”

Liberty Pole popping cork on growth plans

Following years of planning to raise their stakes, the owners of Mingo Creek Craft Distillers can raise a celebratory glass.

Mingo Creek, producers of Liberty Pole Spirits, will break ground Monday at the distillery campus it is constructing along Racetrack Road in North Strabane Township.

Salon and spa coming to North Strabane

A West Virginia-based salon and spa is heading to North Strabane Township, with a pledge to make you look good.

Tuscan Sun Spa and Salon is planning to open there in late May or early June, according to an employee at a Tuscan spa out of state. The company did not respond to an online query seeking more specifics.

Canonsburg offering free metered parking on weekends

In a move certain to delight some residents and business owners, Canonsburg Borough Council voted unanimously Monday to make metered parking free on weekends beginning Saturday.

Free metered parking throughout the borough will be in effect through and including Sunday, June 5.

Statewide cable series to focus on Washington County

Washington County will be on a statewide stage in the upcoming week, and Jeff Kotula is appropriately pleased.

Canonsburg officially welcomes 7 new businesses to downtown

The Canonsburg Chamber of Commerce, Mayor Dave Rhome and borough council members officially welcomed several new businesses to downtown at a ribbon cutting ceremony Saturday in front of Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop.

Retail, restaurant changes spring forth in region

Changes are springing forth locally in the retail and restaurant industries.

Internship funds offer new way to help students, charities

With graduation season right around the corner, many students are focused on the future. And for some, that may mean preparing to enter into a post-secondary educational program.

Young farmer takes over Marketplace at Emerald Valley

Drew Ross was looking to shift gears. So was Alisa Fava-Fasnacht.

Ignite Business Incubator holds I2E awards ceremony

The Ignite Business Incubator recently held an awards ceremony for the latest cohort of Ideas 2 Enterprise (I2E).

Sticking together

Jobie Rossell is not a sap. At 27, he is an experienced maple syrup entrepreneur, one of the few producers in Washington County. He does not understand why there aren’t others, why there isn’t more competition.

Syrup business a sweet time for Donegal couple

Bob Panichi is familiar with the entire 108-acre farm he and his wife, Debby, share in Donegal Township. He, in fact, revels in his routine of navigating the endless hills and trees by foot.

Manufacturing group will discuss hiring

Corridor panelists detail the potential to come from the new Southern Beltway

Rodi, the president of the board of commissioners for South Fayette Township, introduced a full lunchtime banquet room in the Hilton Garden Inn at Southpointe to the new "Southern Beltway District" in the works.

C Harper expands with acquisition of Rotolo's in Fallowfield Township

C Harper Auto Group has expanded again – this time westward.

Southern Beltway: Developers are ready to jump on opportunities from the new highway

From the small farm on which he lives in South Fayette, he looks out his window and sees cars and trucks heading along the newly opened stretch of the Southern Beltway, a 13-mile toll road. “I live next to the beltway. I sit there and watch. You can see the traffic at night,” he said. “Since it opened in October, it has been a steady increase.”

‘From the ice age to the space age’: Washington County camp for early hunters and gatherers joins the digital world

The earliest site of human habitation in North America is in for a digital upgrade.

Arlecchino fills a large order for more space

That half-million went toward an 1,800-square-foot expansion that added dining space, enlarged the kitchen and provided more parking. Planning director Ed Zuk said the township issued the building permit Aug. 21 and the certificate of occupancy this month, meaning the renovation is essentially finished.

Two pipeline projects in Washington County receive state funding

Two pipeline projects in Washington County have received state funding through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA), it was announced Wednesday.

Jett & Sons opens in Charleroi

There is a new eatery in Charleroi that offers quite a unique experience.

A customer may be shot with a Nerf gun, have a robot dance on the table for tips or be on hand to celebrate the birthday of the restaurant’s patron saint, cartoon character George Jetson.

Former Washington County mine sites receiving federal funds for reclamation

Former mine sites in the Washington County communities of Muse and Walkertown will be reclaimed as a result of federal funding, it was announced Monday.

Cecil Municipal Authority will receive $13.8 million in state funds

The Cecil Township Municipal Authority will be receiving a low-interest loan from the state to consolidate all its operations into one treatment plant.

Wolf Administration distributes $70 million in grants for recreation projects

Several communities in Southwestern Pennsylvania will see $70 million in statewide funding go toward their local parks, rivers and trails.

Greene, Washington counties receive $2.5 million in redevelopment grants

Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grants totaling $2.5 million were awarded to economic endeavors in parts of Greene and Washington counties.

The funding will benefit industrial revitalization and economic development, tourism and drug treatment.

Liberty Pole a step closer to developing second site

The Hough family, owners of the West Maiden Street distillery in downtown Washington, will develop a second location on a two-acre tract on Adios Drive. The project recently received a major boost – a $500,000 grant from the state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program.

Washington County gains ground on Susquehanna as state's top natural gas producer

Natural gas production in Pennsylvania rose 6.8% in the third quarter of 2021 compared to a year before, but the number of new wells drilled fell to nearly the lowest point in five years. And Washington County gained ground on Susquehanna County for the most quarterly production in Pennsylvania.

Retal Americas Holdings receives $250,000 in tax credits

Retal Americas Holdings will receive $250,000 in tax credits, which will be used for additional equipment as well as an expansion of its facility.

Mon Valley Alliance opens business resource center

A former Community Bank branch office in Monongahela has a new use.

A partnership was announced last week between Community Bank and the Mon Valley Alliance for the creation of the Mon Valley Business Resource Center. The center is seen as a hub for business development, training, support and incubation for new and growing businesses in the Mon Valley region.

Kouzina adds taste of Greece to Washington

Kouzina Greek Bistro opened two weeks ago at 60 S. Main St., in the George Washington Hotel. The restaurant serves lunch – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Tuesday through Friday, and specializes in Mediterranean and Greek cuisine.

Consol Energy to add fifth longwall machine at local mining complex

Consol Energy Inc. on Tuesday announced it will do something that would have been unthinkable a year ago: Adding an additional mining machine at its Pennsylvania Mining Complex in Greene and Washington counties, thanks to a revived coal market with higher prices and stronger demand.

GE Grid Solutions receives DOE grant

GE Grid Solutions in Charleroi has received more than $2 million from the U.S. Department of Energy for a project geared toward removing a harmful greenhouse gas from the United States Electrical Grid.

Meadows Casino changing its name

The Meadows Casino is getting a new name, and there is quite a bit scheduled in the coming days to celebrate.

On Oct. 15, the name will be officially changed to Hollywood Casino at the Meadows.

Mon Valley Hospital joins Penn Highlands Healthcare

Monongahela Valley Hospital has officially joined Penn Highlands Healthcare.

The move became effective Oct. 1 following recent regulatory reviews and proposals. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Auto repair shop under construction at site of former bowling alley

A former bowling alley will soon be South Strabane Township’s newest auto repair shop.

Prime Collision Center is now under construction at 390 Washington Road, the former home of Route 19 Bowling Center, which closed its doors in April 2016 after 57 years.

'The future is now': With new Southern Beltway, access to spur growth

When Diana Irey Vaughan made her first run for Washington County commissioner, there was talk about building a new highway to link Interstate 79 to Route 22 along the county’s northern border with Allegheny County. That was 1995.

Now, more than 25 years later, the Pennsylvania Turnpike is ready to open a large portion of the 13-mile, $900 million Southern Beltway. The first traffic is expected to use the toll road highway beginning Oct. 15 with the final interchange at I-79 only partially open and scheduled to be finished next spring.

Growing electronic sensor manufacturer buys Southpointe building for new headquarters

Nokomis Inc., a maker of electromagnetic sensors, soon won't have to split its offices between Charleroi and Peters Township.

Sarris announces new real estate buy and expansion of chocolate production in Canonsburg

Sarris Candies, a chocolate-making institution in Washington County for more than 60 years, announced a major expansion as the family owned business continues to grow beyond the modest shop out of which it started.

Mingo Creek Craft Distillers LLC plans to build new facility near The Meadows Racetrack & Casino

Mingo Creek Craft Distillers LLC, a Washington, Pennsylvania-based whiskey maker, has raised $2 million from private investors, according to a regulatory filing.

The company confirmed on Friday that the capital is earmarked for expansion.

Developer 'pane-stakingly' revives Brockway Glass site

For the past two years-plus, amid COVID-related delays, that firm has overseen the demolition of old structures, and the remediation, remake and resurrection of a Canton Township property that is now fraught with promise.

Hardy project takes a step forward in Somerset Township

Hardy World LLC, a real estate development company founded by local legend Joe Hardy, conducted a ceremonial launch of the mixed-use project July 29. Construction is almost complete on a flex building that will feature 28,160 square feet of operational space that can be subdivided into 16 storefronts or bays. Some interior work still has to be done.

New PT facility

Drayer Physical Therapy Inc. has 125 clinics in 11 states. That list now includes a Washington County location.

Tire recycler plans factory in Mon Valley

A tire recycler based in Canada hopes to establish a factory at the former Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel finishing plant in Allenport.

Coffee shop to open in ARC building in Canonsburg

Something new is brewing in Canonsburg, and it’s likely to perk up lovers of good coffee, tea, and food.

PennDOT plans for busy summer of construction in southwestern PA

The state Department of Transportation is preparing for a busy construction season, with dozens of projects planned throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania.

Southpointe revving up with two new businesses, live events

“The streets are filling with people, restaurant tables are full inside and out, new businesses are opening, and outdoor events have returned,” said Swisher, principal at Horizon Properties Group LLC, a real estate development company and developer of the 813-acre mixed-use park.

Scarmazzi Homes plans town homes in Canonsburg

Scarmazzi Homes is planning to start construction in September on eight townhouses on the vacant lot at 119 Greenside Ave. in Canonsburg.

Peters Township Council approves final plan for development with $500,000-plus homes

A new residential development featuring homes starting at half a million dollars is in the works for Peters Township.

Here are the gas producers that paid the most impact fee last year

There'll be less money this year from the state's impact fee on natural gas drilling as lower prices and the pandemic hit the industry hard.

Washington, Greene counties to receive grants for affordable housing projects

Communities in Greene and Washington counties will receive a portion of nearly $2.3 million in Pennsylvania Housing Financing Agency grants to support affordable housing projects throughout the region, according to a news release from state Sen. Camera Bartolotta, R-Carroll Township.

Mon Valley Hospital to integrate with Central Pennsylvania health care system

Mon Valley Hospital has announced an affiliation with a Central Pennsylvania health care system.

Mon Valley said hospital officials have signed an agreement that would integrate its 200-bed Carroll Township hospital with Penn Highlands Healthcare in the fall.

Business incubator ready to open in Washington

The years-long project known as the Greater Washington Area Business Incubator in Washington has been rebranded and is ready to open this week.

Ignite, as it’s now called, sits where the former O’Reilly Auto Parts shop was, at 57 E. Chestnut St. in Washington.

Arc moves into Canonsburg building

Arc Human Services of Washington County is moving into its newly renovated headquarters building on West Pike Street in Canonsburg.

The nonprofit, which serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, was granted full occupancy of the building about two weeks ago. The agency began moving office employees into the second and third floors of the building.

Trolley Museum breaks ground for new welcome, educational center

With supporters saying it will bring in more visitors and boost tourism, ground was broken Thursday afternoon for a new 21,000-square-foot welcome and educational center at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum.

End is near: Southern Beltway near Pittsburgh International Airport set for mid-October opening

After four years, most of the mainline paving and bridge work for the toll road is done. Finishing touches such as road signs, line painting and toll gantries will be come over the summer.

Business district authority getting $50,000 revitalization grant

Washington Business District Authority was one of two Southwestern Pennsylvania applicants selected for funding through the COVID-19 Relief – Supporting Elm and Main program.

Peters Township awards contract for design of new fire substation

Peters Township Council last week awarded a contract for architectural services related to the design of a fire department substation.

New Peters staffing agency holding hiring event

An industrial staffing agency with an established Western Pennsylvania base has expanded to Peters Township.

Incubator takes care of business, heads for a May opening

Two locations and seven years later, the incubator is about to be born.

An early May opening is planned for ignite, the erstwhile Greater Washington Area Business Incubator. Conversion of a former O’Reilly’s Auto Parts store is almost complete at 57 E. Chestnut St. in Washington, where “they’re putting final touches on the building,” said Max Miller, director of the project.

Washington County: State of the economy

Just over a year ago, Washington County’s commissioners celebrated the previous year’s economic successes in this Southwestern Pennsylvania county with more than 400 members of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Their take-away message: Washington County – largely due to the energy industry, manufacturers, tourism and their leveraged investments in the region – had become a model over the past 20 years for diversified regional economic growth in Pennsylvania.

New museum ready to tell region’s role in Whiskey Rebellion

Not everyone who passes by the Bradford House in Washington knows the historical significance of the old, stone building on South Main Street and its role in a rebellion.

But Tracie Liberatore hopes that will change soon with the opening of the new Whiskey Rebellion museum directly across the street that will tell the story about how this region became the epicenter of the country’s first insurrection in the early 1790s.

Mixed-use project a Hardy effort a long I-70

The company he founded, Hardy World, has begun moving earth along Interstate 70 in Somerset Township, where a flex building with 16 business spaces will be constructed. The project is named HW70 and will be located on a tract that is familiar to local residents and I-70 passers-by: where the Carlton Hotel and Diner stood for decades.

Southern Beltway driving development to Starpointe

Aragra Technologies, a manufacturing company that specializes in building circuit boards for medical devices, is planning to construct a 50,000-square-foot building that will eventually employ as many as 220 workers.

Commissioners in an optimistic state about economy

“2020 was a challenging year in the Washington County business community, but we saw optimistic signs,” the president of the county Chamber of Commerce intoned during his introduction to a virtual audience.

The upbeat tone continued, and why not. Vaccines are being dispensed, infections are down and spring is ready to spring forth. There is hope amid the pandemic.

Cornerstone Care to open much-needed call center in city

Cornerstone Care Community Health Centers had an urgent need for a call center. And for space.

Then two months ago, the nonprofit network found a location for sale in downtown Washington that would accommodate those needs. On Jan. 15, Cornerstone Care purchased the building at 351 W. Beau St. for $1.15 million – at an opportune moment.

CAVCON Recognized in National Hall of Fame Competition

The Vollmer of America Sales and Distribution Center built by CAVCON of Greensburg, PA, has been recognized by Varco Pruden Buildings, as a Best-in-Class winner of the exclusive Hall of Fame award.

Dunlevy gets $10.5K grant to complete road project

Dunlevy has received a grant that will enable the borough to pay for the final piece of a roadway project that was introduced in 2012.

Pa. Trolley Museum awarded grant for new exhibit

The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum has been awarded a $12,000 grant to design a new exhibit highlighting trolleys and immigration.

Agency issues $93,300 in grants to 16 tourism projects

Sixteen public and private organizations will receive grants totaling $93,300, the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency announced Friday.

Development planned for South Strabane Township

Chapman Properties has started clearing land across from Tanger Outlets in South Strabane.

Township supervisors Tuesday approved the preliminary and final subdivision and land development for Phase 1 of the Southport Development, which sits south of Racetrack Road along Tanger Boulevard.

Mon Valley Hospital purchases cutting-edge equipment with CARES Act funds

Monongahela Valley Hospital is using cutting-edge technology to combat COVID-19, thanks to more than $1.52 million in equipment it recently purchased through CARES Act funding.

Washington County commissioners on Wednesday presented hospital officials with a check for $1,526,492 from the Washington County Hospital Grant Program. The CARES Act grant dollars are funded by the U.S. Federal Government and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

One pet supplies firm succeeds another in Peters

Pets continue to rule at 3563 Washington Road.

Pet Supplies Plus has opened in the Peters Township location previously occupied by Pet Valu, which closed months ago.

Peters development’s revised preliminary plan recommended for approval

The revised preliminary plan for a 43-lot residential development in Peters Township has been recommended for approval.

Lutz Farms is proposed for 26 acres straddling Thomas Road, southwest of Crossroads Church of Christ. Following the planning commission’s Jan. 14 vote for recommendation, the plan returns to Peters Township Council.

WACTC receives state money for new CNC machine

The Western Area Career & Technology Center (WACTC) was approved for $112,262 in state funding to expand its machine shop instruction with a new computer numerical control (CNC) machine.

$2M in state grants to benefit two county projects

State grants totaling $2 million will benefit two Washington County construction projects.

Latitude 48 brings fine dining to Finleyville

Four friends who used to frequent the former Little Dicks Tavern in Finleyville, recently purchased and remodeled it, transforming the dive bar into a fine dining restaurant.

PennDOT buying lot in Starpointe for $513,500

Just one week after closing on the purchase of the Crossroads Center in Washington, which is to become the new center of county government in 2021, the county commissioners unanimously approved the sale of property in Starpointe Business Park to PennDOT.

Retal molding plant gives struggling PA town another chance to shine

In 2016, Cyprus-based Retal Industries Ltd. decided to pick a former Spartech Corp. compounding plant in Pennsylvania as its first U.S. base.

Donora's nickname "home of the champions" proved to be as relevant today as it was in its 1950s heyday as the company's decision to locate there gave the community another chance.

Six Valley projects sharing $2.4 million in tax credits

Six projects in the Mid Mon Valley Regional Enterprise Zone will share $2.4 million in tax credits from the state Department of Community & Economic Development.

Incubator being nurtured for February opening

That long-awaited incubator has a February due date.

Exterior construction of the Greater Washington Area Business Incubator has advanced to the point that a virtual groundbreaking is anticipated over the next two months. The facility sits at 57 E. Chestnut St. in Washington, in a former O’Reilly’s Auto Parts store.

Dollar General invests in Washington County with new Canton store

The bargain retail chain opened another store in the county last week, at 1969 Jefferson Ave., Canton Township – known locally as Wolfdale. The Goodlettsville, Tenn.-based company now has 17 locations in the county, plus one each in Monessen and Belle Vernon.

Mylan-Upjohn merger creates Viatris

The generic and specialty pharmaceuticals firm has partnered with Upjohn to form Viatris, which began operations Monday. That was 16 months after merger plans were announced and 17 days after final regulatory clearance was granted.

VFI/TRIPIL holds ribbon cutting ceremony

Phase I of the project, which cost an estimated $4.3 million, was also funded by a combination of grants from Washington County Redevelopment Authority and Local Share Account.

Fourth hotel opens in Southpointe

A fourth hotel has opened in Southpointe.

AC Hotel by Marriott Pittsburgh Southpointe had its grand opening Wednesday, including a ribbon-cutting, in the mixed-use park in Cecil Township. It occurred at a time the hospitality industry is struggling because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Costar's Quarterly List- Two in Washington County

Costar's Quarterly List- Two in Washington County

Plans announced for new gas pipeline system in Greene, Washington counties

Representatives from various companies joined state and local officials at the Center Township Volunteer Fire Department hall Oct. 28 to announce plans for a complete gas pipeline replacement that will benefit more than 1,600 residents and businesses in Greene and Washington counties.

Mondays Brewing ready to open in Peters Township

During a ribbon-cutting ceremony that took place Monday – of course – he explained the reasoning behind the name.

“Mondays can be difficult days. Everybody needs a beer on Monday, especially around 4 or 5 o’clock,” he told his guests. But most Pittsburgh-area breweries, at least before the COVID-19 pandemic, tended to be closed at the start of the traditional workweek.

Consol wins big grant to help it build coal plant of the future

Consol Energy Inc.’s pilot project to create a zero-carbon-emission power plant using coal waste is one of four coal- and hydrogen-related projects sharing $80 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Walnut Grill inks deal to open new restaurant in vacated Max & Erma's in South Strabane

Walnut Grill is ready to expand again and open its second new restaurant during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The homegrown and growing chain has inked a deal with the owner of a former Max & Erma’s on a parcel in front of the Old Mill shopping center on Route 19 in South Strabane in Washington County and is shooting to open the 6,400-square-foot restaurant by late January.

Heritage Craft Butchers opens Washington location

Heritage Craft Butchers found all three at 243 S. Main St. Von Scio and co-owner Jared White opened a distribution facility/store there a month ago, adjacent to Chicco Baccello cafe and slightly up from the train station. The partners are leasing a space previously occupied by a salon.

Presbyterian SeniorCare's newest senior living community on schedule despite pandemic

The construction of a Washington County senior living complex, which had been delayed for a few months by the Covid-19 pandemic, is back on track and scheduled for completion only a few weeks behind the plan.

Encore on the Lake, which is being built adjacent to Canonsburg Lake in North Strabane Township, offers 80 one- and two-bedroom apartments for people over 62 by Presbyterian SeniorCare Network affiliate Encore Living Group. The development is Presbyterian SeniorCare's first foray into independent living for middle-income seniors.

Helltown Brewing heading to Houston

MVA's new enterprise zone encompasses 14 towns

Mon Valley Alliance has been awarded a Regional Enterprise Zone designation for 14 towns – which pleases Ben Brown.

Loves Furniture finds a home in Peters Township

A new furniture store has replaced an established furniture store on Route 19 in Peters Township.

Washington County commissioners launch CARES Act grant program

The Washington County commissioners announced Tuesday that they will allocate up to $7.5 million in grants to small businesses and nonprofit organizations that have been squeezed by the economic consequences of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

UPMC Children's opens care center in Washington County

UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh has added to its set of subspecialty care centers with the opening of a clinic in Washington County.

New businesses are opening despite the pandemic

Pandemic or not, businesses have been opening across Washington County. Literally, across the county.

Peters Township Council awards contract for aquatics center design

The eventual opening of an aquatics center at the future site of Peters Township’s Rolling Hills Park took another step forward Monday with the award of a contract for design services.

Township council approved the agreement with Kimmel Bogrette, Blue Bell, Montgomery County, to provide a conceptual plan, market assessment and the development of a business plan for $65,500. Fees for design development and construction administration are 7.25% of overall construction costs based on a budget of up to $9 million, according to the cost proposal submitted by the firm.

Scarmazzi Homes builds headquarters in Canonsburg

“My wife (Lisa) and I started Scarmazzi Homes 20 years ago, and for 17 years, we’ve been renting an office space in Houston down on Pike Street,” Paul said. “We now have more employees and more communities we’re doing. Last year, we hired a chief operating officer and a land development person.”

County awards contracts for bridge replacements, repair

Washington County is moving forward with three bridge projects, but none are yet resulting in traffic detours for motorists.

Gary Metzinger Cement Contractor Inc. will be replacing the Deems Bridge over Pike Run at a cost of $718,054. The span has a three-ton weight limit

First Street School project moves forward

The development company planning to turn the former First Street Elementary School into the Canonsburg Senior Lofts was recently awarded construction funding by the state Housing Finance Agency through Housing Tax Credits.

Washington, Greene to get close to $433 million for state transportation projects over next 12 years

A combined total of $432,989,206 will be spent on transportation projects in Washington and Greene counties over the next dozen years, according to an updated 12-year transportation program released by the State Transportation Commission.

Champion Properties draws new tenants to 701 Technology Drive at Southpointe

Champion Properties has inked three new tenants for 701 Technology Drive at Southpointe, demonstrating an increasingly varied demand at the Washington County business park.

Fourth hotel to open in Southpointe next month

A fourth hotel is scheduled to debut Sept. 10 in the Cecil Township park: AC Hotel by Marriott Pittsburgh Southpointe. It will be a 94-room hotel at 1500 Main Street, near Town Center and its restaurants and retail.

Hefren-Tillotson doubles space for its Southpointe office

The investment advisory and financial planning firm has taken 13,569 square feet, almost double its previous space, at 121 Champion Way in Canonsburg. Still within the Southpointe development, the new office is the base for 22 employees.

Work progressing behind the scenes on Canonsburg Lake bridge project

Scenery, wildlife and fishing at Canonsburg Lake appears much as it has for years, but work is going on behind the scenes for next year’s bridge replacement on McDowell Lane.

Last month, the Washington County commissioners noted the total project cost is expected to be $5,190,000.

Precision Marshall Steel acquired by Las Vegas-based Live Ventures

Las Vegas-based Live Ventures Inc. acquired Washington, PA-based Precision Marshall Steel for $31.5 million, according to a news release.

M&J Wilkow lands publicly traded tech firm for Southpointe office property

More than three years after it bought it, Chicago-based M&J Wilkow has a major new tenant for 275 Technology Drive at Southpointe, the one-time headquarters of Ansys Inc.

SunCap building new 250,000-square-foot distribution facility at Alta Vista Business Park for Komatsu

After building out new industrial buildings in the region for the likes of GE and Amazon, North Carolina-based SunCap Property Group is now building what will likely be the biggest development at the Alta Vista Business Park in Washington County for Komatsu Mining Corp.

Commissioners plan 'rolling dedication" of Mingo Park's new features

There’s a saying that “everything old is new again.”

Plug Power purchases Canonsburg-based company as part of $123 million deal

Plug Power just invested $123 million to buy two hydrogen companies, a move designed to drive down costs, increase revenue and create a path to a bigger market.

The acquisition of United Hydrogen Group, a company headquartered in Canonsburg, and Giner ELX Inc. from Boston will allow Plug Power to produce, store and deliver hydrogen for existing customers while opening up opportunities to supply manufacturers of ammonia, steel, concrete and computer chips.

Woehler and Shanahan work to reinvent Peters Township site into recycling center and business park

Look for big changes, new investment and expansion to come at the 15-acre site on Buckeye Drive in Peters Township as Woehler and partner Brian Shanahan, owner of Pineapple Payments and the Cool Springs Sports Complex, work to clean up and revamp the operation after closing on buying it in May.

Washington County to receive largest share of gas impact fees

Washington County will receive the largest share of more than $200 million that was collected from drillers across the state last year in Marcellus Shale natural gas impact fees.

Another upscale residential development proposed for Peters Township

A new residential development proposed for Peters Township calls for 33 homes selling for more than half a million dollars each.

Peters Township Council Monday approved the preliminary plan for the 28.6-acre Sugarbrooke, off Sugar Camp Road across the street from its intersection with Brookwood Road.

Washington to bid out pickleball court project

Washington council members approved last week to advertise for bids on the pickleball court project at Washington Park.

Pig and Fire preparing to turn up the heat

The Sagers own Pig and Fire House of BBQ, a barbecue facility that will make its saucy debut Friday. It will be the day Washington County businesses enter the least-restrictive green phase of Pennsylvania’s reopening.

Presbyterian SeniorCare to start construction on new senior living

Through its subsidiary Encore Living Group Inc., the four-story, 80-unit facility will be built on 6.8 acres of land off McDowell Lane donated years ago by Ed Ryan of Ryan Homes for just such a purpose. The project was approved by North Strabane Township about two years ago and, just this week, the Washington County Industrial Development Authority gave the green light for Encore and Presbyterian SeniorCare to borrow $32 million at a tax-exempt interest rate.

Water line project starting next week in Burgettstown

Pennsylvania American Water said on Thursday it was starting a $2.4 million project to build a booster station and 7,000 feet of new water main in Burgettstown in less than a week.

Local hospitals receive funding from state loan program

Monongahela Valley Hospital and hospitals in two outlying counties are among those across Pennsylvania sharing in $323 million in loans from the Wolf administration to help them in the Covid-19 crisis.

Washington County Airport getting dollars from COVID-19 Act

The Washington County Airport is among those in Pennsylvania that will receive Federal Aviation Administration grants under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.

LCB opening e-commerce fulfillment center in Washington County

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board announced Thursday that it is opening an e-commerce fulfillment center in Washington County by this weekend.

Partners in Progress

Our chambers of commerce have partnered to provide the Washington County business community with access to business assistance, economic development and other resources to support our local companies during the COVID-19 emergency. To identify a resource chamber in your area of the county, select the municipality where your business is located and refer to the designated chamber contact below. Before contacting a representative of one of the four chambers, please review the resources available on the COVID-19 resource page. We will continue to update this page as more information becomes available.

Chambers of Commerce COVID-19 Resource Page

The Washington County Chamber of Commerce and our chamber partners are committed to helping our joint memberships as well as other businesses across Washington County during and after this unprecedented public health crisis. Now that the coronavirus has made its way to Pennsylvania and our region, businesses are seeking information to help their companies, their employees and their families prepare and respond to the challenges ahead.

County tourism agency an economic driver, study says

There is a lot to see and do in Washington County, and its Tourism Promotion Agency is efficiently showing it off.

Electric car station plans have W&J center charged up

Washington & Jefferson College will get a charge out of this. So will local communities and residents.

The school’s Center for Energy Policy and Management plans to install up to six electric vehicle charging stations on campus this spring, thanks to a recent $25,000 West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund grant.

Southwest Corner Workforce Development receives state grant

The Southwest Corner Workforce Development received a $103,040 grant Thursday to provide summer internships through the State/Local Internship Program.

New specialty metal manufacturer set to open, bring jobs to Canonsburg

A new specialty steel manufacturer—Ameri-Precision Metals— is set to open in Canonsburg this Spring, bringing with it up to 100 new jobs.

New plant, 100 steel jobs heading to Canonsburg

A newly built steel plant and 100 jobs are coming to Canonsburg.

Two developing businesses trying to gain footing in county

The Washington County business landscape now includes a shop that will celebrate its first birthday at a new location and a spa still gaining momentum in its first year.

2020 water main upgrades begin in Canonsburg

Construction of Pennsylvania American Water’s 2020 investment projects kicked off this week in Canonsburg.

Proposed warehouse receives conditional approval in Peters Township

A new office-warehouse complex could be coming to southern Peters Township.

During their Feb. 10 meeting, members of township council unanimously approved a conditional-use request by Five Hundred Nineteen Properties LLC, which owns 1.86 acres at 430 Venetia Road.

Chiropractor readjusting to Washington

The South Strabane Township native is refurbishing 117 N. Main St. in Washington for Getzik Family Chiropractic, an advanced clinic. There is still a generous share of painting, pounding and furniture arrangement ahead – a lot of which he is doing – as the planned March 2 opening approaches.

Financial planners break ground for new Peters Township building

Confluence Financial Partners, partner Gregory Weimer noted, serves families in 44 states.

Winery to open Saturday in Finleyville

Owners Lou and Linda Siyufy, a Peters Township couple, will launch Giant Oaks Winery at a grand opening beginning at noon Saturday. Their facility is located at 3540 Washington Ave., and features a tasting room that will have wines produced with grapes from California, Chile, Pennsylvania and Washington state.

Washington County announced almost $100K in tourism investments

The Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency announced Tuesday that it was funding almost $100,000 in capital projects and marketing programs around the county.

BBQ Staple Heads to the Mon Valley – the Owner’s Backyard

When Frank Puskarich was considering where he would put his fifth Hog father’s location, he decided to look no further than his own backyard.

“Why would I not [consider Monongahela]?” said Puskarich. “There is a lot of community engagement in this town. Mom and Pops get a lot of support. This city never died. I like the valley and have always liked Monongahela.”

PennDOT to begin work on Jefferson Avenue this spring

The state Department of Transportation plans to begin construction in April on the three-year Jefferson Avenue project, from Tyler Avenue to Henderson Avenue in Washington.

Southern Beltway on track for fall 2021 completion

After slow progress around the holidays, construction crews are back to work on the Southern Beltway project, which is on schedule to open to traffic in fall 2021.

The $800 million Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission project will stretch 13 miles from Route 22 near the Pittsburgh International Airport to Interstate 79 in Robinson and Cecil townships.

Bradford House gets into the spirit of expansion

“Right now, we’re severely limited in our ability to tell visitors what the Whiskey Rebellion is about,” said Tripp Kline, a former association member and an adviser to Liberatore, the organization’s only employee. The second venue, he added, “will enable us to teach the causes and effects of one of the greatest events in American History.”

Presbyterian SeniorCare’s new facility designed with memory care in mind

Presbyterian SeniorCare Network helped pioneer the care for people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia back in the early 1990s with its Woodside Place of Oakmont. Now, its newest community, the soon-to-be-opened Woodside Place of Washington, is taking another step forward in memory care.

One of region's biggest entertainment venues gets new name, sponsor

There’s a new name for one of the region’s biggest entertainment venues and an enhanced mission as the KeyBank Pavilion is now the S&T Bank Music Park and a major Pittsburgh financial institution dramatically ups its visibility through a major marketing move.

S&T Bancorp Inc., in conjunction with Live Nation Entertainment Inc., announced the sponsorship at an event on Saturday.

Florida buyer takes over longtime Washington County car dealership

The Florida-based father-and-son partnership of Faisal and Ali Ahmed has bought the John Sisson Motors Inc. car dealership, a mainstay in Washington County for about 50 years.

North Strabane supervisors sign off on 245-unit housing plan

North Strabane Township supervisors voted Monday to grant conditional-use approval for a proposed 245-unit housing plan intended for affluent buyers of retirement age.

Three area hospitals are participating in rural health model

It was announced Thursday Washington Hospital, Monongahela Valley Hospital and Washington Health System Greene Hospital in Waynesburg are among eight hospitals in the western part of the commonwealth that are participating in the Pennsylvania Rural Health Model, which gives the hospitals fixed annual payments from insurance providers, rather than paying them in a fee-for-service model.

Local share of casino revenue totals just over $6.9 million; committee recommends 35 projects

Revenue available from The Meadows Racetrack and Casino to be, by law, plowed back into Washington County dipped slightly in the past year.

In recommending a list of projects to the county commissioners for approval today, there is $6.9 million available, down from a typical $7.5 million from years past, noted Jeff Kotula, chairman of the panel that evaluates proposed projects vying for funds.

Ansys becoming part of Nasdaq-100 Index

Ansys Inc. will become a component of the Nasdaq-100 Index on Dec. 23 with the start of trading, the developer of engineering simulation software announced on Monday.

Arc Human Services moves to Canonsburg

A longtime furniture store in Canonsburg’s business district will be closing its doors, only to have the iconic building repurposed for a good cause.

Arc Human Services of Washington County is purchasing the three-story building that’s housed Brody’s Furniture since the 1930s.

Two Washington County rail projects getting PennDOT grants

The state Department of Transportation is awarding grants for 26 rail freight improvement projects, including two in Washington CountyWheeling and Lake Erie Railway will receive a $1.1 million grant to help repair structural damage and drainage issues in State Tunnel. And National Lime and Stone is to get a $249,900 grant assist in the construction of new tracks for a rail-truck transload facility.

Additional lighting to be installed at airport to aid pilots

Commissioners last week approved a lighting upgrade for the Washington County Airport in North and South Franklin townships that will lead officials to seek authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration for nighttime instrument landings.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has begun a full-scale dredging of the Monongahela River to maintain a navigational channel after an old dam is removed in Elizabeth.

GE to add 100 jobs at Speers plant over the next year

GE Renewable Energy plans to expand its Speers workforce by 50% over the next year.

Inspection time

Canonsburg Town Park to get new pavilion

Canonsburg’s Town Park will have a new pavilion next year near the Woodland Road entrance.

Atria's reopens in Peters

Atria’s in Peters Township has reopened following a five-week remodeling.

Main St. Brew House hops to it with new facade

Main Street Brew House has a happy new face.

A two-month renovation of the façade at the popular Washington bar was completed Monday, and at least one owner is pleased.

New 'Eatery' opens at The Meadows

Vivani spoke Friday ahead of the opening. Around the bar of 2Ten Drafthouse, where he was sitting, rows of tables anchored one side of a roughly fishhook-shaped series of counters whose names reflect the variety of cuisines on their menus.

Robinson Township gives local nod to plans for Beech Hollow power plant

Robinson officials granted local approval on Monday for a company’s plans for the Beech Hollow power plant, as two of the township’s three supervisors publicly declared their conflicts of interest in relation to the project.

MVA gets $157,250 grant for Charleroi Riverfront project

The Mon Valley Alliance Foundation has been awarded a $157,250 grant from the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for continued development of the Charleroi Riverfront Park project.

Commissioners award contract for pirate ship playground at Mingo park

Washington County will be replacing a playground on Maintenance Hill Road in Mingo Creek County Park, making it accessible to people in wheelchairs and with a feature for the autistic, too.

Washington County company acquires Beaver Falls steel business

Precision Marshall Steel, a steel products distributor based in Washington County, acquired DB&S Steel of Beaver Falls, Beaver County.

Sportsman’s Warehouse Now in Washington, PA

Field & Stream is now Sportsman’s Warehouse, an outdoors retailer akin to its predecessor in the South Strabane Township shopping center. The rechristened store reopened Oct. 19, about three weeks after the company entered into agreements to purchase eight Field & Stream locations from Findlay Township-based Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Massage, facial spa

Canonsburg native Lauren Lega plans to launch a second Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa on Nov. 4 in Peters Township. She has had a shop in Upper St. Clair for the past year and a half.

Study details energy cost savings; outdoors store has new name

Increased production of natural gas in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio over a 10-year period resulted in $1.1 trillion in energy savings, according to a report issued last week.

Rahal opens new location

Bobby Rahal Automotive Group has opened a new dealership in North Strabane Township: Jaguar Land Rover South Hills on Route 19.

New owner remodels, reopens venerable Donora funeral home

After five years in the funeral industry, Kate Cheman wanted to run her own establishment. Then one day last fall, while perusing a newsletter related to her trade, she spied an opportunity in Donora.

James A. Rabe Funeral Home, a borough staple for a century but mothballed for the past half-dozen years, was for sale, according to an ad.

Duncan & Miller Glass museum to open in Washington

The National Duncan Glass Society will hold a grand opening celebration a with ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new Duncan & Miller Glass Museum at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at 100 Ridge Ave., Washington.

Apex plans to construct new plant in Alta Vista

The Washington County Commissioners on Thursday put their stamp of approval, in compliance with IRS regulations, on $8.5 million of financing through the county Industrial Development Authority for Apex North America Inc.

Meadows gets initial approval on sportsbook

The Meadows Racetrack & Casino has gotten the go-ahead on its sportsbook venture.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board approved The Meadows’ application Wednesday morning in Harrisburg. Although the gaming site is a few hurdles shy of getting an official OK, it is expected to successfully navigate them – and soon.

Chase entering Washington County

TRIPL announces merger with Erie disabilities organization

Report says Washington, Greene near top in gas royalties

Washington and Greene counties are among the royalties leaders from 2010 through 2017, according to IFO. The office did not provide a county-by-county breakdown of royalties in 2018.

South Strabane approves development agreement with Chapman Properties

After nearly two years of negotiating, South Strabane Township supervisors approved Tuesday a preliminary development agreement with Chapman Properties to develop the Chapman Southport Business Park off Tanger Boulevard and behind Racetrack Road.

A renovated Coover Hall reopens to Cal U engineering, arts students

An 80-year-old academic building on the campus of California University of Pennsylvania is wearing its age well following extensive interior upgrades.

Lotus Hope Counseling LLC has established itself in downtown Washington.

The counseling service has been operating at 87 E. Maiden St. No. 32 for the past two months, and is available to anyone. Sandra Pattinato and Crystal Schmidt are the owners.

Indigo Yoga Loft setting up in city for the health of it

“It feels like an up-and-coming area and we’re getting on the ground floor,” Sansom said of downtown Washington, where she and fellow co-owner Matt Baker plan to open a second Indigo Yoga Loft location in less than two weeks.

Panel pushes economic development in county

“We want to do everything we can to draw companies. We want to get the message out that Washington County is here, it’s thriving and we want you to come here,” Will Thomeier, director of economic and tourism development for the county Chamber of Commerce, said during the 75-minute exchange of viewpoints among four local experts.

Retaining young people, and working together, are vital to regional development,… Sheetz store opens on Racetrack Road

Sheetz has come out of the starting gate on Racetrack Road.

The Altoona-based convenience store chain launched its newest location Wednesday morning with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting. The complex is downhill from The Meadows Racetrack & Casino.

Washington business district awards facade grants

Businesses in Washington’s downtown area will be getting a face-lift, thanks to Local Share Account money.

It’s the second year the Washington Business District Authority applied for an LSA grant to distribute to businesses through the Façade Improvement Program. This year, the authority was awarded more than triple what it received last year.

Couple renovates Canonsburg building

In less than a year, a Peters Township couple turned a dilapidated Canonsburg building into a beautiful new business space – and they want to do it again.

Christine May, of C. May Interiors, and her husband, Joe Sirlin, a contractor who owns Joseph Sirlin Construction, have spent the past year renovating the former Chartiers Cleaners building at 137 W. Pike St. It’s now unrecognizable and serves as a new home for May’s business.

Fisher Associates expands its Western Pennsylvania presence

Rochester-based consulting firm Fisher Associates moved into a new office space in Canonsburg, about doubling its square footage and employee capacity in the area, according to a news release.

WHS gives birth to first phase of obstetrics makeover

WHS has completed Phase I of its CARE Center at Washington Hospital, the postpartum and recovery area. The first patients were moved into the unit Tuesday afternoon, following construction that began last fall on what is officially known as CARE Center for Family Birth and Women’s Health.

Guardian Storage moving into North Strabane

Work is underway at 2670 Washington Road (Route 19), near Galley Road, that will accommodate an estimated 600 to 700 storage units, a spokesman for the company said Monday afternoon. A July 2020 opening is projected.

Meadows Racetrack & Casino undergoing renovation as it adds sportsbook

Major changes are taking place at Washington County's Meadows Racetrack & Casino as it prepares to open its first sportsbook.

County seeking bids for multimillion-dollar airport project

The Washington County commissioners Thursday unanimously voted to seek bids for what is expected to be a multimillion-dollar infrastructure project at the Washington County Airport.

Earth-moving, tree-cutting and other site preparation of 4.8-acres will be a prelude to the construction of an apron, taxiway, access road and parking lot, plus utilities.

DA, commissioners reach agreement on security at Caldwell Building

After more than three hours of negotiations Monday afternoon, District Attorney Gene Vittone and the Washington County commissioners hammered out an agreement on security for the building that will house Vittone’s staff.

County purchases building, plans to move DA's office

Five organizations get $4.5M in redevelopment grants

Five Washington County organizations have received grants totaling $4.5 million from the state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program to devote to development projects.

Company expanding, bringing jobs to Speers Industrial Park

There are new jobs coming to the Mid-Mon Valley.

Gov. Tom Wolf on Thursday announced that TechnipFMC will expand its operations by establishing a new facility in Speers borough. The project will support the creation and retention of 168 jobs.

'Long overdue': East Beth coal refuse dump cleanup nearly ready to start

Now, officials say reclamation work on the coal waste dump at the site of the long-shuttered Clyde Mine is nearly ready to begin.

“It’s long overdue,” said Henck, 43, who’s president of township commissioners. “We’re just hoping that they can reclaim it, cover it up and make it more presentable without any kind of impact on our community.”

Company expanding, bringing jobs to Speers Industrial Park

There are new jobs coming to the Mid-Mon Valley.

Gov. Tom Wolf on Thursday announced that TechnipFMC will expand its operations by establishing a new facility in Speers borough. The project will support the creation and retention of 168 jobs.

Energy-focused facility to open in Washington County

Washington County will be the site of a new energy-focused facility that will create at least 40 full-time jobs within the next three years.

CBD store to open Saturday in city

“We had been thinking about it only since May,” Beth said of the Beaver County couple’s initial inkling of opening a CBD store in Western Pennsylvania.

Pfizer to absorb Mylan, creating generic giant

Mylan NV, a $20 billion company, is merging with Upjohn, a division of Pfizer Inc., in an all-stock deal announced Monday morning. The merger will result in a new company, and is expected to take effect in or around mid-2020.

Affordable housing development funds earmarked for Washington County

Agencies within Washington County will be receiving a combined total of just over $1.3 million through a statewide effort to expand affordable housing.

The money comes through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement fund managed by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.

Washington, Greene to receive $14M in impact fees this year

Washington and Greene counties will receive $14.4 million in total this year from impact fees paid by shale gas drillers.

Those allotments were part of $251.8 million in allotments under Act 13, the 2012 overhaul to the state oil and gas law, that the state Public Utility Commission announced Thursday.

Two new locations giving East Maiden Street a culinary presence

Dining options are on the rise along East Maiden Street.

The June 8 reopening of Washington Brewing Co., following a 10-week shutdown, has been accompanied by the fairly recent launches of The Edge Restaurant & Lounge and Maiden Street Subs. The restaurant/bar, in South Strabane Township, and the sandwich shop, in Washington, are about three-quarters of a mile apart on Route 40.

Tusk Development buys early building at Southpointe from Mexican hedge fund

Tusk Development, a local company which owns a mix of different kinds of properties throughout the region, has bought 501 Technology Drive from the Aztec Fund Inc., a Mexican equity fund that only bought it about 16 months ago.

Peacock Keller to move its main office to West Beau in 2020

The 94-year-old law firm will be relocating its main office from 70 E. Beau St., Washington, to 95 W. Beau in the city – the Crossroads Building. The change, according to a news release from the firm, is projected to take place in early 2020.

Century Inn gets $100,000 state tax credit

Century Inn is getting a $100,000 tax credit to help compensate with the cost of restoration from a 2015 fire.

The credit is awarded through the state’s Historic Preservation Tax Credit program, which is administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development and the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission.

Commissioners approve land purchase for county airport

Eventual expansion of the flight path around the Washington County Airport runway was on the minds of the commissioners as they approved the purchase of 2.58 acres on Mounts Road in Buffalo Township.

The proposed sale, discussed in a closed session for real estate acquisition Wednesday, passed unanimously the next day.

Deli plans grand opening Saturday in Park Place

Lenny’s Deli has been open for business since February in Park Place at the Meadowlands. But it hasn’t had a grand opening.

Redevelopment work to begin soon at former Brockway Glass in Canton

A developer making use of public funds in its plans expects to begin demolition of the former Brockway Glass plant in Canton Township within a month.

Tearing down the former plant, which closed decades ago, will allow Peters Township-based Crossgates Inc. to build a new 135,000-square-foot warehouse-style building in its place at the Hickory Street property.

Presbyterian SeniorCare Network set to open Washington's first dementia-specific assisted community

Seniors in the Washington area affected by dementia or Alzheimer’s will soon be able to receive specialized memory care at Presbyterian SeniorCare Network this fall.

Woodside Place of Washington is Washington’s first dementia-specific assisted community, designed to help residents with their physical, mental and social needs. The community features 36 residential rooms in the two-story building on South Main Street.

Storage hub event spiced with a pinch of salt

Natural gas liquids storage was the focal point of the third annual Appalachian Storage Hub Conference. The proposed hub, focused in the Ohio River Valley, is a $10 billion infrastructure project that would provide a midstream hydrocarbon storage system. It is related to the oil and gas industry.

EQM proposes new gas pipeline through Washington County

Natural-gas processor EQM wants to build almost 17 miles of new pipeline through Washington County to transport natural gas to a proposed power plant in Brooke County, West Virginia.

Liberty Pole Spirits is ramping up its production capacity.

Responding to growing demand for their craft distilled whiskeys, Liberty Pole Spirits (libertypolespirits.com), a family owned and

operated grain to glass distillery in Washington, PA, will double their production capacity with the arrival today of their new 600 gallon distillation equipment from Specific Mechanical Systems of Victoria, British Columbia

Offering diverse activities drives new owners of North Franklin golf center

“It’s like our backyard,” Susan said of the Red Carpet Golf and Recreation Center complex, which nearly abutted their property. The 10-acre tract was for sale a year ago.

The couple went for it, invested copious amounts of time, money and energy, and rebranded the site before finally launching Interstate Golf and Activity Center. Mini-golf and a driving range are its calling cards, but the facility also is a party destination for all ages – with a party room that seats 70 inside and an expansive deck with room for 30 outdoors.

All-Clad a heavy metal band that performs worldwide

Ulam turned his metals expertise into a business in 1967, called Clad Metals, which launched off Morganza Road in Cecil Township. The company grew and morphed into All-Clad Metalcrafters four years later, producing professional-quality cookware. Then the growth accelerated.

WBDA Façade Improvement program underway

Putting a prettier face on the city of Washington is the objective of the 2019 Façade Improvement grant program.

Commissioners eye courthouse roof, dome repairs

Within the next month, scaffolding will be going up so the Washington County Courthouse roof tiles can come down.

The Washington County commissioners today expect to award $2.15 million in contracts related to repairs of the roof and exterior dome of the 119-year-old building.

Main Street Farmers Market to begin again Thursday

When the Main Street Farmers Market started in Washington in 2004, there were certainly a few skeptics who believed it was going to be one of those initiatives to revive the city’s downtown that would peter out after a year or two.

A decade-and-a-half later, the skeptics have decisively been proven wrong. The Main Street Farmers Market will be launching its latest season of selling produce and plenty more starting today at 3 p.m. at the Main Street Pavilion.

Coal 'steadying' here and statewide, industry group official says

Coal, which has been on a decadelong decline in the state, apparently is burning more brightly.

The Pennsylvania Coal Association, an industry group based in Harrisburg, this week released the results of a study titled “The Economic Impact of the Coal Industry in Pennsylvania.” Among the findings: The industry statewide produced 17,700 jobs, $6.9 billion in value and 49 million tons of coal in 2017. Then last year, the Keystone State was the third-largest coal-producing state.

Cal U. receives $23.5 million in grants for geology mapping software

Students enrolled in the undergraduate geology program at California University of Pennsylvania will soon be able to train on the same mapping software that is commonly used by companies in the oil and gas industry.

The university is the recipient of three grants totaling $23.5 million that will be used by the geology program to implement software for teaching and research that integrates geosciences, geophysics and engineering assessments.

Winds of change at Trinity: School district installs wind turbines, solar flowers

On the campus of Trinity High School, an ambitious plan to become a leader in STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Art Math) education and promote renewable energy continues to take shape.

Two wind turbines and three flower-shaped solar systems were recently installed at the high school.

Plans for nationwide trail unveiled in McDonald

The preferred route for the Great American Rail-Trail was unveiled Wednesday afternoon in communities nationwide. Known informally as the “Great American,” the route begins (or ends) in D.C. and runs through 12 states, extending 3,700 to northwestern Washington state. it connects more than 125 existing trails and 90 trail gaps.

City business authority schedules two events

Will Prince, Main Street manager for the Washington Business District Authority, has announced two business-related events that are planned in the city over the next week.

New Senior Living Community Coming to Peters Township

The land has been cleared and construction has started on what will be a 127-unit complex for senior citizens in Peters Township.

Minnesota-based Waters Senior Living broke ground recently on the Waters of Peters, representing the company’s second venture in Western Pennsylvania.

Freight rail improvements coming to Southwestern Pennsylvania

Engines haul freight over 5,000 miles of rails in Pennsylvania, and Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf announced Monday several rail projects in the southwestern part of the state.

Multi-List says home sales, listings are up in region

Multi-List issued its monthly report Wednesday, stating that closed sales, volume of sales and home listings for the first quarter of this year have increased from the first three months of 2018.

Water storage tanks to be upgraded in Claysville, Union

Pennsylvania American Water will spend $8 million to upgrade water storage tanks – elevated and ground-level – in 15 municipalities statewide. Two of them are in Washington County.

Population estimates show slight gain in Washington, decline in neighboring counties

Following a five-year slide, Washington County gained population in 2018 – although it was marginal.

The U.S. Census Bureau Thursday released population estimates from July of last year, which listed county residency at 207,346. That was 50 more than the 2017 estimate of 207,296.

Electronics recycling facility to open in Ellsworth

JVS Environmental is opening a permanent e-waste recycling facility in Ellsworth.

The electronics recycling facility, at 1 American Way behind the Ellsworth Post Office, will be open from 2 to 6 p.m. April 16 and April 30. More dates and times will be announced.

Insurer, state assist TRPIL's rehab of old YWCA

UPMC’s health insurance company is giving $150,000 to a Washington nonprofit’s renovations of a nine-decade-old downtown building in exchange for state tax credits.

Two local companies receive part of $1.95M federal investment in coal

The U.S. Department of Energy announced Friday that it was giving out $1.95 million in grants as a precursor to a $100 million investment in clean coal plants, and two local companies got a cut.

Managers, and their towns, are managing to get by

Lauer’s gesture established a relaxed tone, which would continue during the Washington County Chamber of Commerce’s annual Municipal Leadership Roundtable discussion. The Friday morning event at the Chartiers Township Community Center featured a spirited discussion among Lauer and fellow township managers Andrew Walz, of North Strabane, and Tyler Linck, of South Franklin.

Their 45-minute roundtable – held, actually, at a rectangular table – addressed many areas. Local Share Account funding, Act 13 funding, development and the local retail climate were among the more prominent topics. The speakers represented diverse communities.

Sprague to build new bulk fuel plant in North Franklin Township

A supplier of heating fuel will build a new, nearly $3 million bulk plant along West Chestnut Street in North Franklin Township.

The township on Wednesday approved the project, while setting conditions on how Sprague Resources can proceed with the development.

Region's construction season rolls out with $122 million price tag

The state Department of Transportation on Monday rolled out details about the region’s construction season, one with a $122 million price tag and a major focus on modernizing Interstate 70.

The investment for this year doesn’t include the cost of existing, ongoing construction contracts across Washington, Fayette, Greene and Westmoreland counties, said Valerie Peterson, a PennDOT spokeswoman.

OP-ED: The politics of 'no' is not effective in democracies

Recently, the Observer-Reporter published an important story on the health of our local economy. The article, “Officials bullish on county economy,” (March 29) highlighted events from the seventh annual State of the Economy presentation.

New Somerset 'boutique' has a wild, Western flair

Wild Buffalo Trading Co. will mark its first “month-iversary” Monday. The shop, a compact but neatly arranged space, opened for business March 1 a few steps from the Carlton Diner in Somerset Township. Although the Shinskys are awaiting outdoor signs, their store – all 520 square feet of it – is highly visible from Interstate 70, just off the Kammerer exit.

Mon Valley Initiative opens Charleroi jobs, housing center

People who need assistance in purchasing a house or finding a job have a new place to seek help in downtown Charleroi.

The Homestead-based Mon Valley Initiative has purchased a building at Fifth Street and McKean Avenue where a storefront is stocked with a bank of computers for job searches and making résumés.

Officials bullish on Washington County's economy

“Washington County continues to maintain a leadership position in our region and state in creating economic growth, job opportunities and countywide expansion,” Larry Maggi, chairman of the county commissioners, said in helping to kick off the seventh annual State of the Economy presentation.

State approves $10 million to redevelop Allenport mill site

The state has approved $10 million to help redevelop a former Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel mill in Allenport in an effort to create 550 new jobs.

Housing expected to spring forth

The housing climate in Western Pennsylvania was promising the first two months of the year, according to West Penn Multi-List Inc.’s monthly residential real estate report.

Brockway Glass site project gets $5M in grant, loan

A $2 million grant and a $3 million low-interest loan have been released for the project, state Rep. Jason Ortitay, R-Cecil Township, announced in a news release Tuesday. The money will be used by the Redevelopment Authority of Washington County to overhaul the property – a brownfield site located off of Interstate 70 in Canton Township, near the Washington city line.

On Southern Beltway and elsewhere, Howard Concrete cements strong image

The company, headquartered on Millers Run Road in South Fayette Township, is a big name locally in concrete pumping. It supplies specialty equipment for the construction industry, operated by Howard employees, and does geotechnically related foundation work.

Construction at Charleroi locks included in federal appropriations

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District announced last week that President Donald J. Trump’s fiscal year 2020 appropriations include funding slated to complete ongoing construction of the locks at Charleroi.

Stag buys property recently occupied by Kenco Logistics

Stag Industrial Holdings continues its buying binge in the region, scooping up the new 455,000-square-foot

distribution center recently built at the Starpointe Business Park in Hanover Township, Washington County.

Longtime Chartiers caterer has an events venue on his plate

Inspiration came swiftly. Trubiana decided to convert the place into an events venue, and after about six weeks of painstaking renovations, the erstwhile Danny’s Restaurant & Catering building has given way to the Delfini Room, a location for group get-togethers by appointment.

Washington County Chamber of Commerce Announces 2019 ATHENA Leadership Award Finalists & ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award Recipient

The Washington County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the finalists for the Washington County ATHENA Leadership Award and the recipient of the Washington County ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award.

VA clinic moving from mall to Crossroads Center

Seeking a larger space for its Washington County outpatient center, the VA decided upon the Crossroads Center in downtown Washington. The move to 95 W. Beau St. is short, about two miles from its current location, Washington Crown Center, where it has been a tenant for more than a decade.

Commissioners add Tanger Blvd. upgrade to Local Share list

The Washington County commissioners on Thursday added $440,000 improvements to Tanger Boulevard to the list of 2019 projects to receive funding from the local share account of gambling proceeds from The Meadows Racetrack and Casino.

Expansion to Chartiers a premier move for engineering firm

An engineering systems solutions company based in Monroeville is planning to open a second location in Chartiers Township this month.

Premier Automation says it is finalizing a deal to occupy a building at 320 Reliance Drive, near the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. The firm said it will offer “full engineering and manufacturing services,” which will include building large and small electrical controls for manufacturers.

Tourism agency looking to ramp up youth sports events

While striving to fulfill its mission, the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency has selected a Florida-based consultant to spearhead a study on how youth and amateur sports may enhance local tourism.

The agency announced Tuesday it has selected Sports Facilities Advisory LLC, a business consultant and management service operator from Clearwater, to assess the demand for athletic facilities across the county and the needs of sports organizations that use these venues.

Southern Beltway interchange project discussed at Southpointe

Construction will begin next week on a new portion of the Southern Beltway project in Cecil and South Fayette townships.

Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission officials and project contractors met with residents Tuesday night to discuss the new construction of the new State Route 0576, which will affect portions of Interstate 79, Morgan Road, County Line road, Cecil-Henderson road and Southpointe Boulevard.

Firm acquires two local manufactured home communities

RHP Properties said it recently finalized the purchases of the Washington Estates and Washington Estates II communities, which are each located in Canton and Chartiers townships, along with Virginia Hills in Imperial and Redwood Estates in the Oakwood section of Pittsburgh.

Shell Lubricants moves easily into Starpointe

Operating out of the Hanover Township business park will afford Shell that opportunity. The lubricants firm, one of Shell Oil’s many companies, cut the ceremonial ribbon on a 455,000-square-foot distribution center. Shell shared the scissors with Kenco Logistics, a third-party operator that, according to Shell spokeswoman Pam Rosen, will “make sure products move properly.”

Crazy Horse will have grand opening Saturday

Crazy Horse Coffee, which has been operating for two months, will ramp up its visibility Saturday with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting.

Peters Township approval moves Canonsburg Lake bridge project forward

Plans to upgrade the McDowell Lane bridge and causeway crossing Canonsburg Lake have moved forward with Peters Township Council’s vote Monday to accept additional right of way.

City gets $196,420 from state to renovate Trust Building

Gov. Tom Wolf announced Monday afternoon that funding through the Keystone Communities program had been approved for 43 revitalization projects across the state. A project in Washington will be one of the recipients

Major shipping/logistics company to boost Shell profile in Pennsylvania

A big national logistics provider is about to open a regional distribution center in Washington County built to serve a subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell.

Kenco Logistics plans a ribbon cutting March 1 at its regional distribution center at Starpointe Boulevard in Burgettstown. The 455,000-square-foot building at the Starpointe Industrial Park will serve Shell Lubricants, the engine oil and lubricant business of Royal Dutch Shell.

Fairmont Supply has tools for success

“We have a lot of work ahead, and we’re just getting started on what we want to do,” said Fichiera, featured speaker of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce’s monthly Breakfast Briefing, which attracted a large audience Friday to the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in North Strabane Township.

Railroad services firm heading to Alta Vista

A rail-related company is now making tracks for Alta Vista Business Park.

Frontier Railroad Services LLC has purchased a 4.6-acre lot, according to a news release issued Thursday by Mon Valley Alliance, the nonprofit owner of the 256-acre park in Fallowfield Township. Frontier is a regional railroad construction and maintenance firm that specializes in new track construction and tie and rail changeout.

Work progresses toward 2021 opening of Southern Beltway’s middle section

Construction of the Southern Beltway’s middle section is progressing on schedule, with several portions of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission’s toll road to be completed by year’s end.

Amwell resident launches a Gathering Place along National Pike

A year after her November 2017 purchase, McGinnis opened Gathering Place & Tea House at 438 E. National Pike, on the Amwell Township side of the iconic highway. It is, as the name implies, a location where groups can book events such as weddings, wedding showers, baptism parties, birthday parties, card club get-togethers, whatever.

Residential development on rise again in Peters Township

But among the residential developments in progress, target prices for homes, as announced at the workshop by planning director Ed Zuk, range from $280,000 to $650,000. And the lower figure on the low end of the spectrum is for units in multi-family buildings.

The new residences primarily are marketed toward so-called empty nesters, parents of children who have grown up and left home. As such, the impact on school enrollment could be minimal, according to Lauer.

LSA working in the Valley

Over the past week, the Mon Valley Independent provided excellent coverage of two important stories that demonstrated the continued economic impact Washington County’s Local Share Account Program (LSA) is having on the Mon Valley.

Southwestern Pennsylvania leads the state when it comes to new shale gas wells drilled

Southwestern Pennsylvania continued to grow its share of shale gas drilling in 2018, gaining 401 wells since Jan. 1, 2018.

$4.8 million state loan goes toward Peters sewerage improvements

A $4.8 million loan is helping the Peters Township Sanitary Authority move forward with improvements to help reduce or eliminate untreated sewage discharges into Chartiers Creek.

Coming through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority, the loan represents part the state’s $121 million investment in water infrastructure projects in 20 counties, Gov. Tom Wolf announced Wednesday.

I-70 makeover of Bentleyville interchanges nears completion

A major reconstruction of the Interstate 70 interchanges at Bentleyville is nearing completion, creating what the state said is a safer, modern stretch of the highway.

The state Department of Transportation has announced the “substantial completion” of the nearly $75.9 million project in Bentleyville and Fallowfield and Somerset townships, PennDOT records show.

Fitness facility to open Saturday

3 Minute Fitness will have a grand opening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, February 2 at 380 Washington Road. The gym will be next to Firehouse Subs, in the plaza below Trinity Point.

Sheetz expands Monongahela footprint

Altoona-based Sheetz has expanded its footprint in Monongahela as the company prepares to sell beer and wine at the convenience store in the Mon Valley city.

It’s real estate arm, Steico Inc., in December closed on the $155,000 purchase of three lots beside its 111 E. Main St. location from Jeannene and Rosalie Affinito, Washington County records show.

Jefferson Township supervisors approve conditional use application for power company

Jefferson Township supervisors on Wednesday approved a conditional use application from Robinson Power Co. for construction of electric transmission lines and an electric transmission switching station to transport energy from a power plant planned in a neighboring Washington County community.

Fiscal office: 2018 impact fees hit record high

Impact fees on unconventional natural gas operations in Pennsylvania hit a single-year high in 2018, according to the state’s Independent Fiscal Office.

IFO, which does revenue projections and budgetary analysis for the Legislature and Pennsylvania residents, said in a research brief Thursday that gas wells that were drilled or operating last year generated $247 million in impact fee revenue.

North Strabane supervisors approve new housing plan on McDowell Lane

North Strabane Township supervisors narrowly approved a developer’s plans for a housing development that will boast more than 100 dwellings and add to the growing traffic load on McDowell Lane.

Supervisors voted 3-2 to sign off on Laurel Communities’ conditional-use application to build 41 townhouses and 88 apartments on land along McDowell. Washington County records show the nine-acre parcel is zoned residential.

N. Strabane supervisors to consider office park proposal on Route 519

A developer with designs to build an office park on in North Strabane Township is waiting on a decision from supervisors.

Representatives of Hard Four Investments on Tuesday presented their conditional-use application to build a 9,000-square-foot “flex building.”

Tech Met to be profiled on Fox TV

Tech Met Inc., with headquarters in Glassport and a second location in Donora Industrial Park, will be featured in a nationally televised production – “Manufacturing Marvels” – on Fox Business Network on Monday. The two-minute profile will air between 10:30 and 10:44 p.m.

SPC seeking local input for Smart Moves for Southwestern PA plan

The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission wants to put together a regional transportation and development plan for the future, and is asking for the public to help.

The SPC, which encompasses a 10-county region including Fayette, Greene, Washington and Westmoreland counties, is working on the plan “Smart Moves for a Changing Region.” Part of that is the “forces of change,” said SPC Executive Director Jim Hassinger.

When it comes to barbecue, Southern Yanks comes out smoking

Their Southern Yanks Smokehouse is approaching six months of operation in downtown Washington. It has been the source of enticing aromas wafting up and down West Chestnut Street, a few storefronts down from Rich’s Barber Shop and catty-corner from a local culinary icon: Shorty’s Lunch.

Aldi receives OK for renovation at former Kmart in McMurray

A new Aldi grocery store could be coming to Peters Township by late summer or early fall.

The township planning commission on Wednesday approved an exterior façade renovation at the former site of longtime McDowell Shops anchor tenant Kmart, which closed in mid-October.

Black Box merger is completed

The acquisition of Black Box Corp. has been completed.

AGC Networks Ltd., a global solutions integrator based in Singapore, made the announcement Monday morning. It said a newly formed, wholly owned subsidiary wrapped up the deal, which was announced in early November.

Mariner East 2's up and running, and here's why that's great news for natural gas producers

Pennsylvania's natural gas industry got an end-of-the-year present with news that the Mariner East 2 pipeline has become operational.

The 350-mile pipeline from Washington County to the Marcus Hook complex near Philadelphia officially went into operation Saturday. The pipeline and its predecessor, Mariner East 1, carries ethane, propane and butane from the natural gas fields of the Marcellus and Utica shale to Marcus Hook for distribution nationally and internationally.

Longtime Alta Vista tenant gets new landlord - for $15.25M

Gardner Denver Nash has a new landlord in Alta Vista Business Park in Fallowfield Township – a landlord that, apparently, is eager to invest.

Boston-based Stag Industrial Holdings paid $15.25 million for the manufacturing facility for pumps and compressors, according to real estate records.

Cal U. to develop research hop yard for beer

California University of Pennsylvania will be experimenting with hops production as the craft beer industry continues to expand in the region.

The university was awarded a $72,500 state grant to grow a “trial garden” of hops, focusing on sustainability, disease management and growing conditions.

Burger King part of North Franklin's plan to beef up its business district

Carrols Restaurant Group, franchisee for the 65-year-old restaurant chain, “intends to construct” a Burger King restaurant at 1150 W. Chestnut St., according to a legal advertisement in Monday’s Observer-Reporter. The fast-food location would be on the site of the former Martin’s Supply, which shut down years ago.

Boston REIT buys manufacturing facility at Mon Valley business park in Washington County

An active buyer has made what’s expected to be the first institutional investment at the Alta Vista Business Park in what’s been a flurry of activity at the Washington County park.

Real Estate records indicate that the developer group of a manufacturing facility for publicly traded Gardner Denver Holdings Inc. in the Alta Vista Business Park has sold the facility to Boston-based Stag Industrial Holdings for $15.25 million.

Mon Valley a winner in the LSA jackpot

We think the Mid-Mon Valley has come away from this year’s Local Share Account grant process a big winner once again.

Washington County Local Share Account money is generated from revenues at the Meadows Racetrack and Casino in North Strabane Township.

County purchasing property adjacent to airport

Seven officials envision what's ahead for Washington, Greene

Seven officials who serve Washington and Greene counties in some capacity, however, did share their perspectives on what may occur in these parts over the next 12 months. They discussed the rebirth of the oil and natural gas industry, development of infrastructure to support the Beaver County ethane cracker plant, local business projects, highways and more – all with large measures of hope.

Washington, Greene near top of shale gas producers

Shale gas production in Pennsylvania increased an impressive 12.9 percent over the first three quarters of this year, compared with the first nine months of 2017.

Washington and Greene were the second- and third-most productive counties, respectively, according to data from the state Department of Environmental Protection.

CoGo's acquired by Coen Markets, which plans 40-plus store upgrades, new hot food options

Western Pennsylvania convenience store chain CoGo’s and its 38 remaining locations have been sold to Coen
Markets, another longtime family-owned company that plans to make improvements at stores across the Pittsburgh region.

Washington County Redevelopment Authority to rehab three homes

Three homes in Washington will be rehabilitated and sold to low-income families, thanks to a state grant awarded last week to the Washington County Redevelopment Authority.

DEP approves permits for pipeline linking MarkWest to cracker

Thursday afternoon, the state Department of Environmental Protection announced it had approved permit applications for the Shell Pipeline Co. Falcon project. The agency decided the applications met requirements of DEP regulations on water obstruction and encroachment and on erosion and sediment control.

County commissioners consider 40 who made the local share list

So $7.4 million in revenue generated by The Meadows Racetrack & Casino will be divvied among 40 proposals in the categories of community improvement, which also seeks to remove blight; economic development, including upgrading brownfields; job training; and public interest, which includes myriad of sewer and water projects.

Pennsylvania shale production up, led by Washington County

Through the first three quarters of 2018, shale gas production in Pennsylvania increased
by 12.9 percent over 2017 production, led by huge gains in Washington County.

Hog Father's reopens at Crown Center

Hog Father’s has returned to Washington Crown Center.

The local barbecue chain opened a restaurant Wednesday in the food court of the mall, where it had operated until closing in January 2017.

Plans outlined for more Southern Beltway work

State turnpike officials and contractors they hired to build several miles of the Southern Beltway through Robinson Township shared details of their plans with residents on Wednesday.

Firm plans to move North American operations to Alta Vista

Nearly two months after the first ceremonial groundbreaking at Alta Vista Business Park in five years, word came down that another company will build there.

Mon Valley Alliance and Apex International announced in a news release Monday afternoon the purchase of Lot 12 of the park in Fallowfield Township, located a short distance off Interstate 70.

Area airports receiving state grants

The Washington County Airport is receiving a $450,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to rehabilitate the main access road and make other improvements.

Owners hope West Beth butcher shop becomes a cut above

White and two friends purchased a building in West Bethlehem Township that had been a longtime bank. They are repurposing it into a butcher shop, and pork products (charcuterie) will be among their signature items.

The place, then, is a piggy bank of sorts – which the partners hope to transform into a cash cow.

Mexican restaurant opening today in Southpointe

That is the sentiment among local aficionados of Mexican cuisine, as operators of the long-awaited restaurant prepare for their first day of business today. Doors will open at 11 a.m.

Steel Cactus Mexican Restaurante and Cantina – as it is known officially – will do business at 1800 Main Street in the Town Center section of the mixed-use park.

Turnpike work coming in Robinson

Officials and a state contractor are outlining the final plans for a section of the Southern Beltway several miles long in Robinson Township.

The 2.75-mile section of the toll road will be built by Trumbull Corp., which was awarded a $116.2 million contract by the Turnpike Commission earlier this month. The contract gives the project an end date of June 2021.

Charleroi glass factory to see $16 million in upgrades

An Illinois-based kitchenware manufacturer will make a huge investment to upgrade its Charleroi glass factory that has been in operation for more than a century.

Corelle Brands of Rosemont will spend $16 million over the next few years in the factory that was founded in 1893 by George MacBeth and has operated under other names, including Corning and World Kitchen.

Commissioners approve continuing work at county airport

The Redevelopment Authority of Washington County received approval from the commissioners to have CDI-Infrastructure LLC, doing business as L.R. Kimball, preliminarily design the first phase of the south side taxiway at a cost of $204,360, to be paid from a combination of a state Department of Transportation Bureau of Aviation capital grant, a Local Share Account allocation and local capital funds, which are required as a match.

Real estate team finds new home in South Strabane

The Crumrine/Nicholls real estate team is not breaking up, but heading in a new direction professionally and geographically.

Corridors of Opportunity: Washington County energy goes beyond natural gas

As it continues to put a prolonged energy slump behind it, Washington County is reasserting that its economy has always been about more than the Marcellus Shale natural gas boom.

The broader economic base of a Washington County whose identity was strongly tied to the Marcellus Shale was the basis for discussion at the 70th Corridors of Opportunity panel discussion, held at the Hilton Garden Inn at Southpointe.

Energy execs start new natural gas services firm

When Matt Curry and Chris Combs were looking to found a company in the industry they know best — shale — it didn't take long for them to realize there was an unmet need in the Marcellus and Utica.

That's pressure pumping and pumpdown services, which are used in to keep open a wellbore during the hydraulic fracturing process. So the two veteran natural gas executives have founded a startup, Praetorian Energy Solutions, to provide pumping and pumpdown services.

Grand opening Wednesday for Canonsburg outpatient center

Washington Health System officials will have a grand opening for their Canonsburg outpatient center Wednesday evening.

Singapore firm buys Lawrence-based Black Box

Cecil Township-based Black Box Corp. is being acquired by a Singapore-based company.

AGC Networks Pte. Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of global solutions integrator AGC Networks, is acquiring all outstanding shares of Black Box. It is doing so for $1.08 per share in cash, subject to regulatory approvals, the Washington County firm announced in a news release on its website.

Southpointe CEO association celebrates anniversary, honors Piatt

Jack B. Piatt, chairman of the Board of Millcraft Investments, sat down with his son, Lucas B. Piatt, president and COO of Millcraft Investments, for a conversation on how the company grew from idea to empire at the celebration of Southpointe’s 25th anniversary.

The Southpointe CEO Association awarded Jack with the inaugural Spirit of Southpointe Award for his vision and dedication to development's future at the event Wednesday at the Hilton Garden Inn at Southpointe.

Piatts reflect on Southpointe's 25-year rise to prominence

Southpointe, a mixed-use park where about 15,000 work and 1,000 reside, turned 25 this year, a milestone that was celebrated Wednesday inside the inn. Piatt, president and chief operating officer of Millcraft Investments, engaged a luncheon crowd of about 200 with his perspectives on the park and his accompanying wit and easy demeanor.

84 Lumber leaps forward on Forbes' list

One of Washington County’s best-known businesses – 84 Lumber Co. – has made a quantum leap on Forbes’ annual list of America’s Largest Private Companies.

Oilfield services company to expand at Starpointe

Bestway Oilfield Inc. has acquired a 45,000-square-foot industrial building at Starpointe Business Park.

Plans for Canonsburg Senior Lofts get council approval

Canonsburg borough officials approved a developer’s plans to build a senior apartment complex on the site of the former First Street Elementary School.

A subsidiary of Cincinnati-based MVAH Partners got approval from council on Monday to build Canonsburg Senior Lofts, a proposed mixed-income complex of 50 one- and two-bedroom units for seniors 62 and older.

New venture by Lola, Clear Cut vets raising up to $250M

Co-founders, respectively, of Lola Energy LLC and of Clear Cut Energy LLC have launched a new entity in Canonsburg that is raising a private equity fund of at least $100 million to ignite an oil and gas operating company, a mineral rights holding firm and, possibly, additional ventures.

Coen Markets announces plans to acquire CoGo's

Coen Markets Inc., a division of Coen Oil Co., announced that it has signed an agreement to purchase the outstanding stock and operating assets of CoGo's Co.

Burns Scalo buys back original Southpointe office property it built

The company announced that it has bought the 90,000-square foot Fountainhead building located near the entrance of Southpointe, a property it developed 15 years ago and eventually sold but has continued to manage.

Sunoco fine to fund streambank work in Washington County

A multimillion dollar civil penalty the state levied on Sunoco for violations on a pipeline construction project will fund the restoration of two streams in Washington County, and correct problems on another in Rostraver Township.

Fast-growing Steel Nation to move into new headquarters

Steel Nation, the fast-growing Washington County firm that builds pre-engineered metal buildings for the energy industry, is moving its headquarters to much larger space in Cecil Township.

Oil and gas firm breaks ground on regional HQ in Alta Vista park

The groundbreaking was purely ceremonial Thursday afternoon. The gaggle of earthmovers navigating behind them had, literally, broken ground beforehand and continued to operate as the event unfolded.

Shovels went into the ground to welcome the next tenant at Alta Vista Business Park: Nine Energy Service, a Houston, Texas-based oil and gas company. Nine Energy has a regional office it has outgrown in Chartiers Township, near the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, and is now clearing land for new regional headquarters.

Washington County gears up for second decade of Local Share Account funding from casino revenues

Washington County Commission Vice Chairman Diana Irey Vaughan wowed chambers of commerce members and guests with a staggering sum Thursday morning: $473,733,753.

The nearly half-billion dollars is the total of the county’s local share of gambling revenues from The Meadows Racetrack and Casino, plus additional money and matches from other sources – known as leverage – that has poured in since the first distribution in 2008. The amount that came from the casino, itself, was $88,786,675.

Southern Beltway work outlined at Southpointe meeting

Construction of the $700 million Southern Beltway stretching from Pittsburgh International Airport into Washington County is proceeding, and residents who live near the work found out Tuesday how their lives and property could be impacted in the months ahead.

Southpointe apartment complex for sale

A showpiece of Southpointe’s Town Center is for sale.

The Pittsburgh office of HFF is seeking buyers for 1400 Main, the large, chic apartment complex on the edge of the Main Street business district. There are 376 units and 651 structured parking spaces in the development, which covers 370,000 square feet and opened in 2015.

Turnpike Commission holding meeting on next Southern Beltway section

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is moving ahead with the next phase of construction of the Southern Beltway’s Route 22 to Interstate 79 project and will hold a community meeting to detail the next section of work, which extends approximately one mile along I-79 in Cecil Township. The meeting will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Hilton Garden Inn, 1000 Corporate Drive, Canonsburg.

Zediker Station property on track for development

A longtime rail location in South Strabane Township is on track for major development.

The 1,200-acre Zediker Station property, near the intersection of Interstates 79 and 70, is being marketed for manufacturing or high-tech purposes. Hanna Langholz Wilson Ellis, the commercial real estate firm doing so, made the announcement Monday evening at Perle restaurant in Pittsburgh’s Market Square

County intends to sell land to be used by Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Pittsburgh

The regional headquarters of the Greek Orthodox church of Pittsburgh will be moved from that city to Washington County once its building, estimated to cost $3.5 million, is complete.

Plans came to light in conjunction with the Washington County commissioners’ vote Thursday to sell a tract of land slightly larger than nine acres in South Strabane Township to be used, eventually, as meeting space for the governing body of 55 congregations.

County to benefit from $7.5M in state redevelopment grants

Four state development grants totaling $7.5 million are headed to Washington County.

The grants, from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, will go to Corelle Brands LLC of Charleroi; Pennsylvania Trolley Museum of Chartiers Township; Transitional Paths to Independent Living (TRPIL) of Washington; and Tech Met Properties for its Donora plant.

U.S. Senate funds work lower Mon navigation improvements

The U.S. Senate Thursday approved the spending of $89 million on navigational improvements that are more than a decade behind schedule on the Monongahela River, including work in the Charleroi area.

Washington Area Humane Society to break ground for new home

At 10 a.m. Thursday, the board, staff and campaign team will be breaking ground for the construction of a 10,000-square-foot building behind the existing facility and will announce plans for a public capital campaign to help finance the project. WAHS has already raised $800,000 of a $1.5 million goal for the campaign as part of a silent kick-off in April. The project is expected to cost just over $5 million and the humane society has secured $3.7 million toward that goal. The targeted completion date is fall 2019.

Buzz on new bakery

Honey Bee Bakery is hoping to savor the sweet smells of success in Monongahela.

The shop, at 3726 Dry Run Road, opened for business Friday. Marilyn Sanner is the owner, and at the urging of friends and family, is launching a bakery for the first time.

Hillside Goat Farm Adds Spa

Overseers of the small family goat/dairy farm have added Hillside Bath & Spa to its offerings at 1884 Route 136 in Eighty Four. The spa started taking appointments last week, but will have a grand opening from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. next Saturday.

LETTER: Promoting the county and economy

Washington County’s tourism industry and its importance to our local economy was on full display last week as we welcomed several major events to our area. The DICK’S Sporting Goods PONY League World Series, Washington County Agricultural Fair and National Pike Steam, Gas & Horse Association Summer Show attracted thousands of visitors to our county and generated millions of dollars of economic impact for our local businesses and communities.

171-ton steam turbine made by Elliott Group to move through Donora

An enormous steam turbine will take to the streets of Donora on Friday and Saturday in a move that will involve the closing of several roads, moving of utilities and a police escort, according to officials from Elliott Group.

Canine companion

Of the hundreds of veterans Guardian Angels has matched with dogs since its start nine years ago, not one has died by suicide – a fact the nonprofit is immensely proud of, since about 20 veterans take their own lives each day, according to a report by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Now, Guardian Angels is coming to Washington County. Its new facility in Robinson Township, which is slated to open in about a year and a half, will be larger than the one in Florida and could potentially triple the number of dogs the nonprofit can train annually – around 50 dogs currently.

Local foodie plans to open Courthouse Café Sept. 4

Chuck Kalb wanted to open a café and had an ideal location in mind. It was directly across from the Washington County Courthouse, where a lot of legal system participants – on both sides – appear. People traffic, and the fact the immediate area was a dining desert, positioned this place a potential bonanza.

$4.4 million in state grants go to Brockway plant site, Cool Valley

North Strabane to build new fire station

North Strabane Township is planning to purchase an 81-acre property in Eighty Four on which to build a new fire sub-station.

The property, currently owned by 84 Lumber, sits in the 1000 block of Route 519 near the intersection with Christy Road. The township plans to purchase it for $1 million, which will come out of a $10 million bond the township floated last year for its new building project.

Jefferson Avenue slated for paving in 2020

A heavily traveled intersection in Washington, which has been one of the bumpiest rides in town for months now, is slated for reconstruction in 2020, according to the state Department of Transportation.

Local motorists have been voicing concerns at public meetings and online about the condition of Jefferson Avenue, particularly where it meets Wylie Avenue.

This year marks a decade of casino gambling money dedicated to local projects

An overview of 10 years’ worth of local share allocations in Washington County shows two business parks and one mixed-use development have been the biggest beneficiaries from the local share of casino gambling at The Meadows, which has generated more than $87 million over a 10-year period.

Developer gets $1M to proceed with long-dormant Cool Valley project

The project, a mixed-use industrial and commercial park planned for Cecil Township, was proposed in the spring of 2010. But it has never gotten started. There have been snags in developing the location – between Interstate 79 and Morganza Road, near Southpointe. Funding traffic improvements has been a major difficulty.

Development of the site, as a result, has lain dormant for eight-plus years. But that may change.

Trust Building gets $100K from state for rehab project

Pennsylvania is providing a boost to preserve the history of a historic structure in downtown Washington.

Washington Trust Building, at the corner of South Main and East Beau streets, has been awarded $100,000 in Historic Preservation Tax Credits. The office of Gov. Tom Wolf announced Thursday morning $3 million in tax credits is being spread among 21 building preservation projects throughout the state.

Lynch adds prominent Washington County lawyer

A name partner of one of the biggest law firms in Washington County has joined Lynch Law Group’s new Southpointe office.

Roger J. Ecker is now a member of Lynch’s Litigation, Corporate and Oil and Gas practice groups.

CareerLink online system upgraded to help employers, job hopefuls

To make the job-search process more convenient, the state Department of Labor & Industry is enhancing the PA CareerLink online system.

GACO gets grants totaling $373K

California University of Pennsylvania’s Government Agency Coordination Office has received two grants totaling $373,000 to assist businesses in Washington, Greene, Allegheny, Beaver and Butler counties.

Mexican restaurant to open Oct. 1 in Southpointe

A Mexican restaurant, originally projected to open in Southpointe this summer, will land in early autumn.

Four Points Brewing has rolled out the barrels

Four Points Brewing opened July 12 in Charleroi, next door to his Fourth Street Barbeque restaurant. The businesses complement one another, with beer transported for consumption at the restaurant and food carried over to the taproom.

Horizon quickly expanding suburban coworking venture

After launching its first last year, Horizon Properties Group LLC is busy expanding and building the brand for its coworking venture, Loft Office Suites.

Mike Swisher, a partner with Horizon, said the company recently opened its latest Loft Office Suites location within a 10,000-square-foot retail space at the Street at the Meadows, the company’s retail-and-apartment development in front of the Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Washington County.

Consol strikes first big metallurgical coal deal in years

Consol Coal Resources LP announced Thursday it had struck its first substantial etallurgical coal agreement since 2013 as the Canonsburg mining company seeks to take advantage of the hottest sector of the market.

Beynon Insurance merging with Exchange Underwriters

CB Financial Services Inc. on Monday announced the merger of its subsidiary, Exchange Underwriters, and Pittsburgh-based Beynon Insurance, effective Wednesday. Terms were not disclosed.

State officials, businesses discuss workforce development

An eclectic mix of state officials, local business representatives, workforce development leaders and elected officials participated in an hourlong discussion centering on youths, jobs, apprenticeship programs, funding for training and related matters. The goal is to alleviate a severe shortage of skilled workers that has been projected for this region over the next five to seven years, at a time when manufacturing jobs are on the rise along with an ethane cracker plant in Beaver County.

Learn about Local Share process

Washington County Redevelopment Authority plans to hold three workshops explaining how to apply for funds made available from the local share of casino gambling at The Meadows Racetrack & Casino.

The program is open to Washington County and local governments, municipal authorities and nonprofit agencies.

Final plan for 60-home development in Peters Township receives approval

The final plan for a proposed 60-lot residential development off Thompsonville Road has received approval from Peters Township Council.

By a 5-2 vote Monday night, council gave the green light for Rywood LLC to develop Juniper Woods, which will feature single-family detached homes in the anticipated price range of $350,000 to $500,000.

Pennsylvania American Water invests $11 million in Washington County

Pennsylvania American Water is investing $11 million in two new water towers and pipeline upgrades in Washington County this year.

One of the new storage tanks costs $3 million and will hold 750,000 gallons on South Hewitt Avenue in Canton Township. The engineering project manager, Rachael Beam, said ground was broken at the site in April. She said the tank will improve fire safety and reliability and “benefit Canton Township and surrounding communities.”

Valley Tire planning to wheel into Cecil with new facility

Valley Tire Co. is trucking to Cecil Township, and into a much more comfortable space.

Stankiewicz is shooting for a December opening for the new facility. New-Belle Construction Inc. of Belle Vernon is doing the heavy lifting.

Southpointe at 25: always a focal point, never a folly

It began in the mid-1980s, with planners, developers and elected officials scrutinizing an expanse of mostly undeveloped land enveloping a once-notorious reform school. Transforming the rolling hills into a mixed-use business park, they believed, could be an effective salve for the economic ails of Washington County.

City façade program to disburse $45K, drop matching funds requirement

Washington business owners can now put a happier, spiffier and more affordable face on their operations.

Washington Business District Authority has $45,000 in its facade improvement budget, thanks to a $30,000 boost from the Washington County Local Share Account. And WBDA is dropping its requirement that owners provide matching funds.

Law firm opening Southpointe office next month

The Lynch Law Group LLC is adding an office in Southpointe, scheduled to open on Aug. 1.

The 16-attorney firm, based in Cranberry Township and founded in 2002, also has a satellite office in Pittsburgh’s South Side neighborhood.

Agency tries to stimulate trail use, economic impact

Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency is trying to lure users to local trails, but they also want to lure them off.

The agency revealed efforts to increase Montour and Panhandle Trail use and, therefore, bring money into Washington County, after the completion of a Trail Tourism Marketing report. Through partnerships with trail councils and adjacent businesses, the agency is making a push to attract and retain trail users, and get them to spend some time – and money – in “trail towns,” particularly McDonald, Burgettstown and the Hendersonville/Southpointe area.

The region's top private companies ranked by revenue

Despite a decrease in revenue from 2016, the private company with the most revenue in 2017 made more than double the company at the No. 2 spot.

Medical marijuana dispensary holds ribbon-cutting ceremony

Washington County’s first medical marijuana dispensary, which opens its doors to patients Thursday, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday.

Local officials, employees and patients joined the Healing Center co-founders Chris Kohan and Jay Richards for the event and a tour of the dispensary at 799 W. Chestnut St., Washington.

Impact fees further boost Washington, Greene and its towns

Natural gas production is up, and so are impact fee revenues – especially in Washington and Greene counties.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission reported Thursday about $209.6 million in impact payments collected from gas producers in 2017 will be distributed. That is a $36.3 million increase from last year.

That revenue total – specifically $209,557,300 – is the third-highest disbursement in the seven years since Act 13 of 2012 became law.

McCune hands Community Bank's reins to his friend, O'Brien

Pat McCune officially retired as chief executive officer of CB Financial, the holding company for Community Bank. Pat O’Brien, his longtime friend, four-year colleague and CB’s president, has added CEO to his portfolio.

CNX, Range officials upbeat on energy at DUG Conference

Executives from two natural gas drilling companies based at Southpointe energized the first full day of an energy conference.

State's shale impact fee totals $209M for 2017

Pennsylvania collected $209.5 million in shale impact fees from natural gas producers for 2017— and Washington County and its municipalities saw a big increase due to a bump in drilling activity. Range Resources Corp. was the biggest contributor to
the impact fee in 2017.

'Opportunity zones' approved in southwestern Pennsylvania

Qualified opportunity zones have been designated across Pennsylvania as a part of a federal program that
defers or eliminates federal taxes on capital gains in certain low-income areas-two in Washington County

Drops & Swirls Opens in Canonsburg

Drops & Swirls, an art studio, has opened at 22 W. Pike St., Canonsburg.

Beef Jerky Outlets Opens

Beef Jerky Outlet has opened at Tanger Outlets in South Strabane Township.

Farmers Insurance Office Opens in Peters Township

Farmers Insurance agent Karen Passieu will open an office Friday at 205 E. McMurray Road, Suite B, Peters Township.

The Passieu Agency phone number is 724-260-0188.

State grant will pay for Washington County Airport taxiway, road relocation

Several changes taking place at county airport

Washington County commissioners this month approved several changes at the county airport.

Region scored well in economic development during 2017

Robotics/Information Technology was the star, but the triumph in local economic development last year was a team effort.

County moves ahead with next phase of fairgrounds entrance project

Washington County commissioners Thursday approved the receipt of a $742,000 grant related to the renovation of the trolley-stop fairgrounds entrance in Arden, Chartiers Township.

Power Meeting

The professionals selected for the first panel of Friday’s Junior Athena Workshop let attendees in on a little secret.

Most of them didn’t know what they wanted to do with their lives as young women.

“I’m not on TV like I thought I’d be,” said Megan Chicone of State Farm Insurance.

Canonsburg-based event villa unveiling garden

Upscale event villa Bella Sera is holding the grand opening for its new space, an 11,000-square-foot Gardens at Bella Sera, on Wednesday evening.

Ansys to take more office space at Southpointe

Ansys Inc., a publicly traded engineering software maker, is preparing to expand beyond its headquarters at Zenith Ridge within Southpointe II.

Washington, Greene lead state's surge to No. 2 gas producer

Pennsylvania set a record for marketed natural gas production in 2017, making it the No. 2 producer in the nation, the U.S. Energy Information Administration reported.

Chicago company investing $10 million in vacant Canonsburg building

A Chicago real estate investment firm has started a $10 million project in Canonsburg.

Charleroi, Cumberland Township nominated for new economic development program

Two communities in Washington and Greene counties have been nominated for a new federal economic development program designed to bring jobs to low-income areas.

Kate Spade opens location at Tanger Outlets

Retailer Kate Spade New York opened its doors at a location in Tanger Outlets Pittsburgh on Friday.

Chicago investor putting $10 million into Canonsburg industrial building

Chicago-based real estate investment firm T2 Capital Management is ready to pursue a $10 million renovation of a 130,583-square-foot industrial building in Canonsburg with a Fortune 500 company lined up as a tenant.

Town Center the focus of latest Southpointe growth

Southpointe, the ever-expanding mixed-used park, is turning 25 and poised for another growth spurt.

Former Caterpillar plant in Washington County under new ownership

A former Caterpillar facility in which the Fortune 100 company operated a long-wall mining division has been sold.

Mon Valley Alliance has big plans for Charleroi stadium site

The leader of a Mon Valley economic development group called the old Charleroi Area School District stadium “a black hole,” but it soon will be disappearing.

IMAGINE THAT! Business notebook: OPC's Reimagine Main Street wins national award

Reimagine Main Street, Observer Publishing Co.’s online advertising and marketing division, marked its fifth anniversary in January in relative silence. But when a belated birthday gift arrived via email two months later, it was time to celebrate.

Mexican chain Steel Cactus coming to Southpointe

Southpointe will be getting a taste of Mexico this summer.

Community Bank reveals plans for corporate center in North Franklin

Community Bank, in a continuous expansion mode, revealed plans Wednesday for a new corporate center in North Franklin Township.

Washington, Butler counties gain in natural gas production

Washington County remained a solid second in natural gas production and No. 1 in number of producing wells, according to state data released Monday.

New restaurant ready to wing it on South Main

A new restaurant is winging it to Washington.

Big Shot Bob’s House of Wings will open at 11 a.m. Monday at 201 S. Main St., in the space previously occupied by Upper Crust restaurant.

Budd Baer dealership expanding to former state police barracks property

A car dealership in Washington plans to expand by the end of the year with two new buildings at the site of the former state police barracks at 83 Murtland Ave.

Mark Baer, the owner of Budd Baer Inc., purchased the property and barracks building for about $751,000 in a closed bid last April.

Interior secretary brings mine reclamation funds to area

FREDERICKTOWN – Pennsylvania, according to a large graphic from the state Department of Environmental Protection, “has more abandoned mine lands resulting from past coal mining than any other state in the nation.”

A member of President Donald Trump’s cabinet traveled to Fredericktown Saturday to speak a half-mile from one of them.

It was a very good year for Washington County's economy

“Washington County continues to lead the Greater Pittsburgh Region in creating new economic growth, new job opportunities and countywide expansion,” commissioners Chairman Larry Maggi said Tuesday morning, in opening the county Chamber of Commerce’s sixth annual State of the Economy presentation.

O-R business editor retiring after 27 years

Much like the fluctuating stock market, Observer-Reporter Business Editor Michael Bradwell has seen his share of ups and downs on the local business beat. Now, after 27 years, Bradwell is sounding the closing bell and retiring.

Canonsburg company provides closed captioning for Olympics

Canonsburg-based Vitac Corp. was chosen by NBC Olympics to provide live closed captioning services for its production
of the XXIII Olympic Winter Games in PyeongChang, South Korea.

Officials discuss construction plans coming to Peters Township

Another year brings another variety of construction projects in Peters Township.

Ed Zuk, township planning director, provided an overview of what is being built for the edification of Peters Township School Board members during their annual joint meeting with township council, held Monday night.

Mexican equity fund buys Southpointe office building

The Aztec Fund Inc. has bought 501 Technology Drive, a Class A office building in Southpointe.

Holliday Fenoglio Fowler LP, which marketed the building on behalf of the seller, an affiliate of Laurus Corp., announced the transaction on Tuesday, but did not disclose financials.

Public invited to view plans for fairgrounds entrance project

Washington County commissioners will host a public meeting to present changes proposed for the trolley-stop entrance to the fairgrounds at 6 p.m. Feb. 13, in exhibit hall No. 2.

Because the project includes $750,000 of funding from the state Department of Transportation, a public meeting is required. An additional $400,000 from the Local Share Account from gambling proceeds generated by The Meadows Racetrack & Casino has been earmarked for the work.

Commissioners award contracts for new buildings at airport

After analyzing 45 bids for two metal buildings on concrete slabs to be constructed at Washington County Airport, the board of commissioners Thursday awarded four contracts totaling $3.1 million.

W&J purchases East Chestnut Street building

Washington & Jefferson College has purchased the O’Reilly Auto Parts building in the city, according to information provided by the county’s recorder of deeds office.

The college purchased the building at 57 E. Chestnut St., which for many years prior to O’Reilly was operated as Auto Supermarket, for $512,500 from Eagle Holdings LLP of Uniontown.

Freedom Transit gets new buses

Washington County Transit Authority will have two new buses within two weeks, as part of a five-year purchasing contract it entered years ago.

Joseph Thomas, director of fixed-route services for Freedom Transit, addressed Washington City Council Monday to inform them of a new 30-foot bus they received last week and another on its way. He said these are the first two of five new buses the authority will receive as part of a purchasing consortium contract they entered with Federal Transit Administration grant funds in 2015.

Shell ethane pipeline application under review by DEP

Shell Pipeline Co. has submitted applications to the state Department of Environmental Protection related to the construction of its Falcon Ethane Pipeline to carry ethane from natural gas production sites to Shell’s ethane cracker plant now under construction in Beaver County.

Lauren Fraley, community coordinator for communications in DEP’s Southwest Regional office, said Monday the permit application “is currently under technical review” by the agency. While Shell was earlier approved to construct the cracker plant in Beaver County, Fraley said this is the first time it has submitted an application for construction of pipelines to the plant.

Apartment construction started in Washington Trust Building project

If all goes as planned, there will be two dozen new one-bedroom apartments for rent in the middle of downtown Washington by the end of the year.

Vanessa Murphy, project manager for Pittsburgh-based Trek Development Group’s Washington Trust Building at the corner of South Main and East Beau streets, said last week a demolition of floors two through 10 of the building’s tower that began in October is nearing completion and that framing for some of the 24 apartment units has begun. The apartments were designed by the Pittsburgh architectural firm LAB8 in collaboration with Clearscapes Architect + Art from North Carolina.

California University of Pennsylvania adds new data science degree

Responding to changing workforce needs, California University of Pennsylvania will add a new degree this fall: a bachelor of science in statistics and data science.

Peters Township High School plan recommended for approval

The site plan for a new Peters Township High School has been recommended for approval by the township planning commission.

Peters Township Council now will vote on granting approval, which would pave the way for the $90 million project to advance, toward a targeted opening at the start of the 2020-21 academic year.

Vacated Monongahela building may prove an economic catalyst

For nearly four months, a large building at 211 W. Main St. in Monongahela has stood vacant. Following its purchase by the Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce, the building is expected to play a major role in the city’s economic growth.

In partnership with the Mon Valley Alliance, which guaranteed the loan from Community Bank, the chamber closed on the building Dec. 28. EQT Corp. donated $15,000 toward the purchase price of $60,000, with another donor who wishes to remain anonymous contributing an additional $5,000.

Ensinger expansion project progresses

An expansion project is progressing for Ensinger Inc., an international plastics manufacturing company with North American headquarters in North Strabane Township.

According to Doug Trbovich, North Strabane’s building code official, Ensinger has three projects going on near its facility at 365 Meadowlands Boulevard – a new headquarters facility, an addition to its current facility, and a parking lot expansion that is on the township supervisors’ agenda for approval next week.

Dunkin' Donuts to open W. Chestnut St. location Monday

Heartland Restaurant Group, the Pittsburgh-based franchisee for Dunkin' Donuts in Southwestern Pennsylvania, said it will hold a grand opening Monday of its newest Dunkin' Donuts unit at 1271 W. Chestnut St.

Jimmy John's opens Southpointe location

A new Jimmy John’s sandwich shop at 1800 Main St. in Southpointe Town Center, is open for business.

“This will be our fifth store in the Pittsburgh area and our team is excited to serve fresh, fast and tasty sandwiches to a new set of customers in the area,” said owner Chris Petty.

Starpointe receives $1.5M state grant for infrastructure work

Starpointe, the business park in Hanover Township, is receiving a $1.5 million state grant for infrastructure work through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program.

The announcement, made by state Sen. Camera Bartolotta, R-Carroll, is for development and infrastructure work that will include 1.5 million cubic yards of earthwork and the installation of electric and phone conduits, gas and water lines, streets, sidewalks, curbs and other components of the park.

State grants go to Chapman Properties, Washington business incubator

Chapman Properties will receive a $1 million state grant to develop the Chapman Southport Business Park at Racetrack Road and Tanger Boulevard in South Strabane Township.

In addition to Chapman’s $1 million grant, Washington & Jefferson College received $500,000 in Redevelopment Assistance Capital money to start construction on the Greater Washington Area Business Incubator.

MCC adds space

Park Place developer sees more retail, restaurants and apartments coming in 2018

Residential project for seniors gains conditional use approval in Peters Township

A proposed 124-unit residential complex for senior citizens at Valley Brook Road and Friar Lane has gained conditional-use approval from Peters Township Council.

Lake Superior Consulting Announces New Engineering Office and Regional Engineering Manager in Canonsburg

Lake Superior Consulting (LSC) is pleased to announce the opening of a new office in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, and the addition of John Henning, PE, as Regional Engineering Manager. LSC has been playing an increasing role in Northeastern Pennsylvania since 2012 and has an existing office shared with parent company, Shawcor, in Sewickley, Pennsylvania.

New Sky Zone trampoline park will let customers jump for joy

Washington County is now home to an indoor, walled trampoline court whose concept is so unique it holds a patent.

Regardless of its pedigree, it will be a jumpin’ joint when it officially opens Friday.

Sky Zone, an internationally franchised indoor trampoline park, held a pre-opening event for media Nov. 30 at 281 Georgetown Road in Cecil Township. The local franchise is co-owned by Joel Karg and Dave Beckett, two Ohioans who also have a unit in Monroeville.

Fairmont Supply adds 2 suppliers

Fairmont Supply, one of the largest distributors of industrial maintenance, repair and operation supplies in the United States, has announced Industrial Pipe & Supply of Omaha, Neb., and Industrial Pipe & Valve of Portland, Ore., have joined the Fairmont Supply family of companies.

Perryman increases titanium melting capacity

Perryman Co. will more than double its current titanium melting capacity through the addition of two new furnaces, as it prepares to tap a larger segment of the aerospace industry.

CNX Resources completes spin-off of Consol Energy

CNX Resources Corp., formerly named Consol Energy Inc., said Wednesday it has completed the spin-off of Consol Energy Inc., formerly named Consol Mining Corp., creating two publicly-traded companies – a natural gas exploration and production company and a coal company.

Heading downstream: MSC president updates natural gas industry activity

The president of Marcellus Shale Coalition said Tuesday the natural gas industry is moving to a new phase that seeks to develop new markets for the abundant natural gas now being extracted from the region.

David Spigelmyer recalled an ad campaign several years ago by Range Resources that had a tagline of “Drilling is just the beginning.”

“Drilling truly was just the beginning,” Spigelmyer told about 100 members of Washington County Chamber of Commerce at the Hilton Garden Inn in Southpointe. While drilling for the product is still very much active, he said the focus is now migrating toward finding new markets for wet and dry natural gas.

Real estate broker seeing more activity from large square footage users in Southpointe

A commercial real estate broker with longtime experience in leasing at Southpointe is seeing a wave of activity from large square-footage users over the past few months.

Two state grants awarded to Washington County projects

More than $900,000 in state grants was awarded last week for two projects in Washington County, according to state Sen. Camera Bartolotta, R-Carroll Township.

Well completion company takes new space in Washington County

Well completion company FTS International is growing its operations in western Pennsylvania, moving a wireline division previously based in Ohio to Washington County.

Ductmate Industries moves ahead with sustainability measures

When Ductmate Industries made a commitment a decade ago to get its employees to think about sustainability on the shop floor, company officials knew they were fomenting a major cultural change in attitudes about material and energy waste at the plant that makes metal ductwork for commercial and residential applications.

“Everybody buys into this, and everybody takes a road to get there,” DMI Director of Operations Doug Gudenburr said Thursday.

The company’s local plant sits in Forward Township, Allegheny County, directly across the Monongahela River from Monongahela. Its corporate headquarters are in Charleroi, and its 250 employees hail mainly from Washington, Fayette and Westmoreland counties.

CB Financial, First W.Va. Bancorp announce merger

CB Financial Services Inc., the Carmichaels-based holding company for Community Bank, and First West Virginia Bancorp, Inc., the Wheeling-based holding company for Progressive Bank, NA, on Thursday announced a definitive merger agreement under which First West Virginia will merge into CB in a cash and stock transaction valued at approximately $49 million.

Here's the new tenants coming to the Street at the Meadows

The new craft beer offering of Whitehourse Brewing will be joined by J&D Cellars, a wine maker based in Eighty Four, Pa., that specializes in producing a variety of wines from grapes and other fruits.

They come to a property along with a Dunkin’ Donuts, an office for Howard Hanna, and an outpost of wealth management firm Hilliard Lyons. Already operating at the Street at the Meadows is a Buford’s Kitchen, a Markook Authentic Mediterranean Eats and a Primanti Bros. restaurant.

Perryman Co. buys former Caterpillar site to expand titanium production

Perryman Co. said Wednesday it purchased the former Caterpillar site – approximately 35 acres of land – adjacent to its current headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Houston where it will create an advanced manufacturing campus for its titanium products.

Washington County energy services company eyes growth in '17 and beyond

HydroEdge Solutions, which provides turnkey water services for the oil and gas industry, is planning to hire more than 20 employees by the end of the year to accommodate its growth.

Artisanal cheese merchant takes retail space in Washington

For the past several years, Emerald Valley Artisans of Scenery Hill has had glowing success selling its artisanal cheeses to restaurants and other commercial food outlets across Pennsylvania.

Now the company, which makes 11 different types of hard cheeses from locally produced cow’s milk as well as two versions of ricotta cheese, is testing the retail market on Main Street in Washington.

Emerald Valley co-founder Alisa Fava Fasnacht said the “pop-up” store at 145 S. Main St., has the potential to become a permanent location if the company sees ample demand from walk-in customers.

Dash-n-Dine expands delivery service to Washington

Dash-n-Dine Delivery, a multi-restaurant delivery service based in Bridgeville has expanded its service area to Washington, the company said Friday in a press release.

Finleyville Airport gets GPS approach

Bad weather conditions will be less of a deterrent for humanitarian and medical flight pilots who need to land at Finleyville Airport, now that it has a GPS approach for landing.

Tom Riemer of Virginia spent the last two years working to clear the approach with the Federal Aviation Administration, saying safety was his main concern.

Consol officially separates coal and natural gas entities

For the past year, Consol Energy has discussed its intention to separate its oil and gas and coal businesses into two separate entities.

The company’s board made the move official Tuesday, approving the separation of the energy company into publicly traded natural gas and coal entities. It will divide the stock for shareholders in late November.

Popeyes opening Monday in South Strabane

The fast food restaurant, which has been under construction for several months at the Washington Mall in South Strabane Township, will open Monday, October 30, the contractor at the site posted on Facebook Tuesday.

Washington Crown Center adding Rural King Supply, Toffee House

Two weeks ago, a bridge connecting Franklin Farms Road with Washington Crown Center’s South Ring Road reopened at the North Franklin Township shopping mall.

The timing of the bridge reopening, which provides a crucial second entrance/exit in addition to the main one from West Chestnut Street, couldn’t have come at a more appropriate time, according to Washington Crown Center Manager Civil Knox.

Coen redoubles efforts to grow convenience store business

A 94-year-old Washington County company is looking to a future where it could nearly double the number of its locations in the next five years.

Coen Oil Co. began as a single service station in 1923 and grew into a regional powerhouse in commercial and residential oil, transport and energy services. Earlier this month, it sold its Coen Energy and Coen Transport divisions to Sprague Resources (NYSE: SRLP).

New Hampshire firm acquires two Coen Oil divisions

Sprague Resources LP has acquired Coen Energy and Coen Transport, bringing the publicly-traded company based in New Hampshire into southwestern Pennsylvania.

Financial terms of the deal between Sprague (NYSE: SRLP) and privately held Coen Oil. Co. of Washington, Pa., included a $33.75 million base purchase price, the value of its petroleum products and a potential earnout of up to $12 million, according to a U.S. Securities and Exchange filing made by Sprague. The rest of Coen Oil, which also includes convenience stores and a tire company, were not involved in the transaction and remain on their own.

Peters Township Council approves preliminary plan for 55-lot development

The preliminary plan for a proposed residential development containing 55 single-family lots recently received approval from Peters Township Council.

The township requires that Justabout Farms, to be built on 25.8 acres between Bower Hill and Justabout roads to the north of Snyder Road, sets aside 30 percent of the property as open space. 

Heyl & Patterson division moving to Southpointe

A 130-year-old Pittsburgh engineering firm that was sold out of bankruptcy last year to an Ellwood City-based manufacturer is moving back to town.

The Heyl & Patterson Equipment Division of Hall Industries is taking 8,000 square feet at Southpointe with an option to triple that space as it grows, confirmed Vice President Len Walnoha. The move of 20 employees to 701 Technology Drive is expected to occur by mid-October.

Executive: Shell cracker will ‘change the skyline’ next year

Within the next two to three years, the region should start to see additional plastics manufacturers arriving in the region to take advantage of cheap polyethylene pellets being produced here, an economic development official said Thursday.

Pittsburgh Regional Alliance President David Ruppersberger made the comment while participating in a panel discussion during the second day of the annual Shale Insight conference at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. 

Corsa Coal to double office space at Southpointe

Corsa Coal Corp. has plans to double its headquarters space at Southpointe to accommodate growth plans following the June opening of its Acosta mine near Somerset and a new mine in Berlin, Pa., next year.

Jamaican on Main: Jaiden’s Place brings Caribbean flavors to Washington

The city’s dining scene, which earlier this month added a microbrewery with a full-service restaurant, now also offers the flavors of the Caribbean on Main Street.

Originally opened as a convenience store in May with her Caribbean dishes offered as takeout, Jaiden’s Place owner Marsha Collins has reworked the site as a restaurant following the urging of a staffer who admires her food. 

Chipotle to open Wednesday at Old Mill

Chipotle Mexican Grill will open its first Washington location on Wednesday at 179 Old Mill Boulevard in South Strabane Township.

CNX Coal Resources, OMNIS to develop solid energy refinery to produce clean coal

Today, CNX Coal Resources LP and OMNIS Bailey LLC announced a partnership on Wednesday to build a first-of-a-kind solid energy refinery.  The refinery will be used for processing waste coal at Consol Energy’s Bailey Mine Complex and converting it into high-quality clean carbon fuel.

A pilot plant was constructed at the Bailey Central Preparation Plant in May to allow for optimization of the production process and commercial-scale testing of CCF by power plant customers. 

Dunkin’ Donuts to convert closed Donut Connection site in Canton

Washington County has lost a longtime connection to one doughnut chain, while another is further cementing its presence here.

Anthony Braun, chief financial officer and chief operating officer for Heartland Restaurant Group, the Strip District-based franchisee for Dunkin’ Donuts in Southwestern Pennsylvania, said Friday Heartland will convert the former Donut Connection store at 1271 W. Chestnut St. to a Dunkin’ Donuts unit by the end of the year or early next year. 

Whitehorse Brewing riding toward taproom opening on Racetrack Road

The microbrewery scene continues to heat up in Washington County.

Whitehorse Brewing, based in Berlin, Somerset County, has staked out 1,200 square feet in the Street At The Meadows mixed-use development in North Strabane Township for a taproom for its microbrews. 

$2.3 million distribution and trucking dispatch center planned at Starpointe, but for whom?

Development of a 31-acre tract as a distribution facility and trucking dispatch operation in the Starpointe Business Park, Hanover Township, is on the horizon, but what will be distributed from there and by whose trucks was not divulged Wednesday at an agenda-setting session convened by the Washington County commissioners, who have been asked to approve the sale of the land for $2,325,000.

Chipotle Mexican Grill coming to Old Mill

Chipotle Mexican Grill will open a unit next month in the Old Mill shopping complex in South Strabane Township, the chain said Wednesday.

According to a news release, the company will open at 179 Old Mill Boulevard, the location of a recently completed 10,000 square-foot outparcel building that also houses a Great Clips hair salon and a Zoup! restaurant that is also scheduled to open soon. 

Rice Energy to acquire start-up Lola Energy

Rice Energy, which itself is in the process of being acquired by Pittsburgh-based EQT, acknowledged in releasing its second-quarter earnings Wednesday that it is buying Wexford-based Lola Energy. The purchase price is $180 million.

“This acquisition is highly complementary to our existing position and consists of 11,700 net undeveloped acres in Greene County and 4,800 net undeveloped acres in Monongalia and Wetzel counties, West Virginia,” the company stated in its second-quarter financial report. 

Pittsburgh-based ABARTA becomes one of largest Coca-Cola franchises in U.S.

The Houston distribution center for Coca-Cola products is one of a dozen Pennsylvania facilities that are now part of ABARTA Coca-Cola Beverages.

The relationship was finalized Saturday when ABARTA announced that it became an expanded franchise partner of the Coca-Cola Co. by acquiring sales and distribution rights from the world’s largest beverage maker throughout the commonwealth. 

North Strabane supervisors approve $2 million for YMCA

Plans to build a YMCA facility in North Strabane Township are moving forward.

Township supervisors Tuesday unanimously approved a $2 million capital contribution to YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh for construction of a YMCA facility in the township.

MedExpress finds Southpointe administrative hub a site for success

As an urgent care provider, MedExpress has a name that lives up to its mission.  Today, MedExpress, which operates an administrative hub in Southpointe, has 212 centers in 15 states with 5,000 employees.

Nerf ‘Battle Arena’ opens today in Canonsburg

The Battle Arena, a new attraction featuring a play area where people using Nerf guns can safely battle using barricades and obstacles, will hold a grand opening from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. today at 6 N. Central Ave., Canonsburg.

Dispensary details discussed

The co-founder of one of the first marijuana dispensaries to be permitted by the state Department of Health released details about the business.

Jay Richards, co-founder of the Healing Center, addressed Washington City Council Monday with plans for a dispensary at 799 W. Chestnut St.

North Strabane prepares for new municipal complex

Washington County’s fastest-growing municipality finds its workforce has outstripped the size of its governmental base of operations, so 40 years after North Strabane opened its municipal building at 1929 Route 519, the township is preparing for major changes and expansion at its 80-acre complex.

“We’ve just simply outgrown the building,” said Frank Siffrin, township manager.

Washington brewery takes delivery of microbrew tanks

Things are beginning to brew at Washington’s first microbrewery.

The first batch of 18 stainless steel tanks related to the launch of Washington Brewing Co. at 28 E. Maiden St. arrived around 9 a.m. Thursday.

Washington center permitted to dispense medical marijuana

A Washington business has received one of the first permits from the state Department of Health to operate a medical marijuana dispensary.

The Healing Center at 799 W. Chestnut St. was on a list of 27 companies across Pennsylvania provided Thursday by the state that are permitted to dispense medical marijuana. Those receiving permits have six months to become operational before they can dispense the medical cannabis.

Work has started on $118 million project to reconstruct stretch of I-70

Ensinger to stay in North Strabane

Montour, Panhandle trails part of national bike route

The first nationally designated bicycle route in Pennsylvania has been established by the state Department of Transportation.

U.S. Bicycle Route 50 includes the Montour Trail, Panhandle Trail and Great Allegheny Passage. Montour Trail runs from the Coraopolis area to Clairton, with a large section in Washington County. Panhandle Trail runs between Weirton, W.Va., and Carnegie, traversing northern Washington County. The two trails intersect in McDonald

EQT agrees to buy Rice Energy for $6.7 billion

Zoup! breaks ground for August opening in Old Mill shopping complex

Zoup!, the nation’s leading fast-casual soup brand, featuring award-winning soups and made-to-order salads and sandwiches, has broken ground on its first Washington area restaurant at 181 Old Mill Boulevard, in the Old Mill shopping center, South Strabane Township.

Impact fees down again but Washington County is top recipient

Pennsylvania’s counties and municipal governments will see another drop in the annual revenue they get from Marcellus Shale gas wells. 

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission said Thursday that impact fee revenue from Marcellus Shale wells dropped by almost $15 million to about $173 million.

Henry F. Teichmann Inc. acquires E.W. Bowman

Glass engineering and construction company Henry F. Teichmann Inc. acquired the glass annealing lehr operations from manufacturer E.W. Bowman Inc. of Uniontown.

The acquisition was completed May 26, and announced June 9.

WHS partners with three other health systems on care initiative

Washington Health System announced Monday afternoon that it and three other independent, nonprofit health systems in the region have formed a partnership called Bridges Health Partners.

WHS has joined forces with St. Clair Hospital, Butler Health System and Excela Health System to establish a clinically integrated network that, according to a news release, intends to provide a better quality of patient care at a lower cost.

City Mission opens a career center

The ceremonial ribbon was cut Tuesday on ANSYS Career Training & Education Center, located in the lower level of the mission in downtown Washington. The center will serve residents of the homeless shelter and essentially all Washington County residents who need assistance with their employment search.

New S. Main signals to activate Tuesday

The newly installed traffic signals at South Main Street, South Street and Park Avenue in Washington will flash until Tuesday, when they will be activated.

Though not a true intersection, the lights will be synchronized to allow for better traffic flow in the area.

Public bus natural gas fueling station opens in Donora

The Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority opened a compressed natural gas fueling station for its fleet of buses at former U.S. Steel property.

Canonsburg brewery plans June 15 opening

A second brewery will begin operations in Washington County on June 15, when Rusty Gold has its grand opening in Canonsburg.

The grand opening will run from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Kleckner, of Peters Township, said he plans to offer five beers crafted by master brewer Justin Viale: a creme ale, an IPA, an oatmeal stout, an amber ale and a pale ale.

DCED approves Local Share project list as presented by county commissioners

The chief of the Washington County Redevelopment Authority reported to the county commissioners Wednesday the state Department of Community and Economic Development approved $6.7 million worth of projects to be financed by Local Share Account casino gambling revenues.

South Main Street restaurant changes owners, name

A local family has taken over an established South Main Street establishment. Spouses Ryan and Brittany Hepinger and Ryan’s brother, Chris, have bought Nunny’s Place at South Side in Washington, and renamed it Hepinger’s Legacy Tavern at South Side.

Firehouse Subs will open its second Washington location

Firehouse Subs will open its second Washington County location, on the former Sharp’s Furniture property along Route 19 in South Strabane Township. Angela Swartz, the franchisee, said a June 12 launch is planned and about 18 will be employed there.

The Carlton Diner, formerly known as the Carlton Kitchen, is up and running under new management.

Washington County box plant to be acquired

WestRock Co. announced Wednesday it was acquiring five corrugated converting facilities in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Louisiana from U.S. Corrugated Inc., a packaging company the company's website said was based in Washington, Pa. The purchase price is $192 million and the deal is expected to close in June 2017.

MVA CEO: Mon Valley poised for economic, community growth

As chief executive officer for the Mon Valley Alliance, Chris Whitlatch isn’t just a cheerleader for the Mon Valley. He’s also charged with putting the means in place for an area he says is ripe for economic and community revival.

“We believe we are poised for growth,” Whitlatch, 43, told the Washington County Chamber of Commerce Friday at its breakfast meeting at The Golf Club of Washington.

New rec center opens at W&J

 Washington & Jefferson College officially opened a new 30,000-square-foot recreation center Friday.

The James David Ross Recreation Center – the first of its kind in the school’s 236-year history – is part of a $100 milllion project that includes construction and upgrades to other college buildings.

Area rail project receives $1.8M state grant

A $1.8 million grant from the state Department of Transportation will support a freight rail infrastructure improvement project in Washington and Westmoreland counties.

DCED’s Davin gets update on microbrewery, incubator projects

As secretary of the state Department of Community and Economic Development, Dennis Davin frequently sees the business districts of a lot of towns the size of Washington and even smaller.

Following a brief tour of A&M Wine & Beer Supplies and Washington Winery, as well as the adjacent microbrewery on East Maiden Street that is a work in progress, Davin said he could see the potential the businesses have for the economic well-being of a town.

Canon-Mac expanding high school, improving stadium

Several capital improvement projects in the Canon-McMillan School District are intended to accommodate a robust student population.

According to Assistant Superintendent Scott Chambers, officials started planning for new construction, renovations and expansion of existing facilities after a demographic study performed in 2013 forecast a growing population in the district.

Partners update progress on downtown Washington business incubator

The partners of a planned small business incubator in Washington said Wednesday that funding requests for the project are moving forward, spurred by a matching challenge from one of the area’s most successful entrepreneurs.

The project, known as the Washington Area Business Incubator, was announced in September by Tori Haring-Smith, president of Washington & Jefferson College, and Tom Northrop, publisher of the Observer-Reporter.

Whiskey, wine and beer: A spirited discussion about a downtown renaissance

Shell cracker project dominates PRA 2016 ‘scorecard’

Energy may have been in a downturn in Southwestern Pennsylvania in 2016, but that didn’t stop industries of all types from making a huge capital investment in the Pittsburgh region – $10.2 billion – in manufacturing, health care, information technology, financial services and, yes, energy.

The $10.2 billion worth of total investment was the largest-ever annual amount recorded by the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance, which released the results Thursday of its 10th annual Business Investment Scorecard for the 10-county region that includes Washington and Greene counties.

Highway construction gears up for season

As one construction project on Interstate 70 starts to wind down and two more continue, drivers traveling the highway in Washington County should be prepared for two new construction zones.

There will be five construction projects on different stretches of the highway between the welcome center in Donegal Township and the Centerville/Monongahela interchange.

LaCarte, King team up to bring Stoney’s beer back to family roots

Two Mon Valley businessmen are helping Stoney’s Beer return to its Smithton family roots.

In a press release issued Wednesday by Stoney’s, the company announced that Jon King, great-grandson of William Benjamin “Stoney” Jones, in partnership with John LaCarte, president of LaCarte Enterprises based in Charleroi, have formed Stoney’s Brewing Co. They have acquired the trademarks and licenses to brew and sell Stoney’s Premium and Stoney’s Light Beer from Jones Brewing Co.

Peters Township approves patio home development

A new 54-unit residential development has gained Peters Township Council’s approval.

The unanimous vote last week paves the way for Sherwood Pond, the final phase of the Crossings plans developed by Eddy Land Co. of Bridgeville. The patio homes, carrying an expected average price tag of $550,000, are to be built on 15.761 acres between the current terminus of Maid Marion Lane and the Pleasant Valley Elementary School property.

Panel: Townships would benefit from regional approach on issues

Three of Washington County’s township managers said Friday they speak frequently with their counterparts in other townships and often enter into cooperative agreements to purchase goods and services and to share equipment.

But the trio, featured in a panel discussion at the monthly breakfast meeting of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, said they would like to see all of the county’s municipalities be a part of a bigger picture represented by a regional plan.

BSRE sees multiple leasing activity in Southpointe

Burns Scalo Real Estate has announced the following new leases in the Southpointe mixed-use business park. 

The company said in a press release three leases at BSRE’s Zenith Ridge 2 were signed, including Colonial Life, S & B Engineering and ECM Energy, along with an expansion of Elior/Aladdin, a food management company.

New center open to community, nonprofits

A new, 5,200-square-foot structure with the most up-to-date features and amenities stands at 59 E. Strawberry Ave., on the site of a historic Washington institution.

Pete Cameron, great-grandson of Cameron Coca-Cola Bottling founder Wilfred Cameron, and his wife, Kathy, opened The Center on Strawberry on Wilfred’s old homestead and business property.

Safety stressed at soon-to-open Goldfish Swim School in Peters Township

Concrete plant in the mix for Robinson

A Beaver County concrete maker is planning to build a plant in Robinson Township ahead of growth expected from the Southern Beltway expansion.

Franklin Township-based J.J. Kennedy Inc. plans to break ground in the spring on a ready-mix concrete plant on Old Steubenville Pike near the Findlay Township line.

New mines bank on steel’s need for metallurgical coal

Contractors for Corsa Coal Corp. are busy digging a hole larger than a football field in Somerset County. Their goal is the Middle Kittanning seam – buried about 120 feet deep.

The Southpointe-based company is on schedule to open its Acosta Deep Mine in May, with a plan for at least 70 miners to remove about three miles of metallurgical-quality coal – used in steelmaking – over the next decade. Starting a new mine in an era when many are shutting down feels good, said Robert Bottegal, Corsa’s general manager for engineering.

FirstEnergy plans $235M in improvements in West Penn Power area

FirstEnergy plans to spend $235 million during 2017 to make infrastructure upgrades in the 24-county West Penn Power services area, including improvements aimed at supporting the shale gas industry.

Cal U. plans to build new science building

Washington Winery expanding to Mon Valley

The marriage of wine and art has been a long and happy one, from gallery openings and artists’ shows to the advent of “paint and sip” parties that have gained wide popularity over the past several years.

It’s the latter category that’s driving the decision of the owners of Washington Winery to open a satellite location at Off The Wall Gallery on McKean Avenue in Charleroi.

County economic development scorecard posts another healthy year

Despite the downturn in natural gas production last year, Washington County attracted 80 economic development and infrastructure projects that amounted to more than $1.1 billion in capital investments.

The tally, which was spread over several different sectors, was presented Thursday by the Washington County commissioners during their annual economic update at the Hilton Garden Inn in Southpointe.

Long wait for Mon-Fayette completion, not so much for I-79 widening

Finishing the Mon-Fayette Expressway probably will take a couple of more decades, but improvements to Interstate 79 in Cecil and South Fayette townships are well on the way.

New Minteer’s Market owners plan to add a bit of the general store

The new owners of Minteer’s Market are planning some tweaks to the longtime store on Main Street before opening in the next few weeks.

Ryan Yoest, who along with several other family members own and operate Yoest Feed & Farm Supply at 2465 E. Finley Drive, said the family recently purchased Minteer’s, which has been closed since mid-January.

“We’re renovating the whole place,” Yoest said last week. “It’s almost down to the walls.”

MVA announces funds for community development

Mon Valley Alliance announced the introduction of four new community development funds aimed at supporting and starting new projects that strengthen the community and benefit the region.

According to a news release from MVA Chief Executive Officer Chris Whitlatch, when the organization was formed last year it made a priority to be more involved in the communities it serves and to support shorter term community projects that improve the quality of life for residents and attract new people to the region.

Washington Financial takes former PNC site in Burgettstown

Washington Financial Bank, which hadn’t added a branch since 1999, is snapping the trend by opening two by midyear, growing its retail presence by 25 percent.

In addition to the Bridgeville office Washington Financial plans to open in the spring at 173 Millers Run Road, its first retail branch in Allegheny County, it has acquired a branch in Burgettstown from PNC Financial Services Group Inc.

Montour named Pa. ‘Trail of the Year’ for ’17

In a statement last week announcing the designation, DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn cited “a history of support dating back to the 1980s, annual user numbers surpassing 400,000 and a strong volunteer network” among the reasons for recognizing the trail system.

The agency noted the Montour Trail, which occupies the former right of way of the Montour Railroad and Peters Creek Branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad between Clairton and Moon Township, is one of the oldest “rails-to-trails” ventures in the country

From the ground up: 84 Lumber’s expanded store openings create demand for management trainees

Revenue at the country’s largest privately held building materials supplier has been steadily climbing since 2011, following the bust in the housing industry that began in 2007 and was responsible for the Great Recession that began a year later and lasted until a turnaround began in 2010.

Panel: Promise of medical cannabis must rise to federal legal challenges

Despite the existence of a Pennsylvania law permitting the use of medical marijuana, the treatment still has a long way to go before it can get into the hands of those who could legally use it for relief from chronic pain or a variety of other medical conditions for which it has been approved.

That was the conclusion of an hourlong panel discussion conducted Friday before a packed room of members of Washington County Chamber of Commerce at The Golf Club of Washington.

Aspen Dental opening Tuesday in South Strabane Township

Dr. Alexander Wenner, DDS, will open his new Aspen Dental office Tuesday, January 31 at 360 Washington Road, adjacent to the Trinity Point shopping complex on the site of the former Sharp’s Furniture.

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen coming to South Strabane

The conversion of a former Long John Silver’s to Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is expected to begin this week.

The structure at 301C Oak Spring Road, at the entrance to Washington Mall, South Strabane Township, will house the fast-food chain, owned and operated by AR Group of Restaurants of Trenton, N.J.

UMWA Career Center gets grant for coal miner retraining

UMWA Career Centers Inc., based in Ruff Creek, has received a $1.2 million grant from Appalachian Regional Commission through the federal Power initiative to help retrain displaced coal miners.

The money will be used to deliver workforce training and job-placement services to unemployed coal miners in eight Southwestern Pennsylvania counties and two southern West Virginia counties, according to a release issued Thursday by ARC announcing the funding.

Southern Beltway expansion moves forward

Part of Quicksilver Road in Robinson Township will close next month as work gets underway on the long-planned expansion of the Southern Beltway.

The Quicksilver closure, set to begin Feb. 1, will allow contractors to rebuild a quarter-mile section of the road as part of work on a four-mile stretch of highway from Route 22 south of Pittsburgh International Airport.

Range Resources gives Mon Valley Hospital $50K for ER upgrades

Mon Valley Hospital will perform $75,000 in improvements to standardize the rooms in its emergency department.

The project was boosted Tuesday with a $50,000 donation from Southpointe-based Range Resources, money that will also be spent to improve patient and visitor safety in the department’s 24 rooms, the company and hospital said.

Zip Office: Making the business center mobile

From the outside, the new Zip Office Business Center in Southpointe Town Center looks like most places a person could go to ship a package, make copies or pick up some office supplies.

But once inside, a visitor learns that there is much more than meets the eye.

Dollar General opens today in South Franklin

Dollar General will open for business this morning in South Franklin Township.

A soft opening will begin at 8 a.m. at the variety store at 2180 Park Ave., where a mobile home development once sat and near Michels Pipeline.

Charleroi restaurateur building brewery next door

Heads up. A fourth brewery is coming to Washington County.

Four Points Barbeque and Brewing is under construction in downtown Charleroi. The restaurant end, actually, has operated for more than four years – as Fourth Street Barbeque. Dave Barbe Jr., the appropriately named owner of the established establishment and the future brew pub, will run the businesses as one – thus the all-inclusive name change.

Washington County commissioners to seek OK for $6.75 million in LSA projects

The Washington County Board of Commissioners expects to ask that the state Department of Community and Economic Development approve $6.75 million in projects for 2017 from the Local Share Account of revenue from The Meadows.

Mon Valley Hospital buying the Willow Room

Monongahela Valley Hospital Inc. plans to purchase the Willow Pointe Building, 800 Plaza Drive, Rostraver Township, which houses various hospital departments, doctors’ offices and a fitness center, according to a resolution presented Wednesday at an agenda meeting of the Washington County commissioners.

Coal Tipple Brewery tips its glass to county’s mining history

Coal Tipple is also ramping up slowly. Chris showed a brewing area in the basement that is in the process of enabling the brewery to move from one-barrel batches to seven barrels.

The brewery will feature a total of six beers, with four on tap at any time, but the brewing area is large enough to go to 10-barrel batches as demand grows, Chris said.

Brewery is on tap for city next summer

Washington County has one brewery, and it just opened. By midsummer, there could be three.

Signs are up for Washington Brewing Co. at 28 E. Maiden St., in a space once occupied by a Studebaker car dealership. The brewery will be built next to Washington Winery/A&M Wine and Beer Supplies, near the intersection with South Main Street.

MMR getting ready for next industrial buildout

“We follow the major pipeline construction all the way down into West Virginia and Virginia,” he said.

District Manager Tony Graham said the new office in Lawrence, which is scheduled to open in the spring, is 10,000 square feet, with offices and warehouse space, and includes an 800 square-foot training room.

FirstEnergy’s $40 million substation to serve natural gas production, other customers

Construction has begun on a new FirstEnergy Corp. transmission substation in Smith Township to help meet the increased electrical usage of the area’s expanding Marcellus Shale gas industry. 

The project also will reinforce the regional transmission system which is expected to benefit more than 40,000 West Penn Power customers in Allegheny and Washington counties.

That's the spirit-Forty Bar & Grill striving to be a popular haunt

The management crew of Forty Bar & Grille couldn’t have chosen a better time to launch – Oct. 31.

On Halloween, on reputedly haunted grounds.

After nearly seven months of construction, Forty Bar & Grille is targeted to open next Monday, said Emily Cottrill, project manager/office manager.

Tech Met seals deal for Donora Industrial Park site

A longtime Mon Valley manufacturer with ties to the aerospace industry has landed – officially – at Donora Industrial Park.

Tech Met Inc., a Glassport company since 1988, is expanding its operations to a second location. It closed a deal Friday afternoon to purchase the property at 79 E. Eighth St., a building previously operated by Poly One Corp., which shuttered about three years ago.

New Meadows GM sees some changes coming, but will wait for others

The new general manager of The Meadows Casino said Tuesday his company will make capital investments in the gaming and entertainment venue in North Strabane Township.

Rodney Centers, 45, a 10-year veteran of the casino industry, also said he’s confident state legislators will arrive at a fair solution for how Pennsylvania’s casinos will fund local share payments to communities, following last month’s state Supreme Court decision that the current funding method is unconstitutional.

Chicago real estate investor buys at Southpointe

Chicago-based M&J Wilkow Ltd. is extending its investment in the Pittsburgh market to Southpointe.

After first entering the region’s commercial real estate market by buying the Waterfront in Homestead, three buildings downtown and Penn Center East in Wilkins Township, M&J Wilkow has closed on buying 275 Technology Drive, the two-story, 108,000-square-foot former headquarters of Ansys (Nasdaq: ANSS), which has sat vacant since the company left it for a new, larger office at nearby Zenith Ridge. No purchase price was disclosed.

Commissioners approve Starpointe land sale

The Washington County commissioners advanced plans for changes affecting county property.

Cardinal Properties, doing business as Keystone Containment Contractors of Imperial, will pay $521,000 for an eight-acre site at Starpointe Business Park where it plans to construct a 30,000-square-foot headquarters, warehouse and shop.

Spill-containment company coming to Starpointe

Keystone Containment Contractors of Imperial plans to purchase an eight-acre site at Starpointe business park, which the Washington County commissioners expect to approve Thursday.

Dan Reitz, executive director of the Washington County Council on Economic Development, said the company designs, makes, installs and maintains liners for spill containment and water retention ponds used by the natural gas and oil industry.

$6.1 million Independence-Cross Creek sewer upgrades moving forward

Independence-Cross Creek Joint Authority approved a $6.1 million sewer upgrade for 126 homes.

By a 4-1-1 margin in a Sept. 19 vote, Board Chairman Rob Gagliani said it’s been a long road.

W&J, O-R launch plans for downtown small-business incubator

A small-business incubator could be in operation in the heart of downtown Washington two years from now, according to plans announced Friday by Washington & Jefferson College and the Observer-Reporter.

Rice buys energy firm for $2.7 billion

Rice Energy Inc. is expanding its oil and gas holdings in the region … and beyond.

The Southpointe-based company announced Monday it agreed to buy Vantage Energy, an oil and gas firm, for $2.7 billion, including assumption of debt. Rice expects the deal to close in the fourth quarter.

Food bank to expand freezer, refrigeration capacity, build garage

Greater Washington County Food Bank will be using a half-million-dollar grant of state taxpayers’ money to house its vehicles and expand its capacity to store frozen foods and perishables to better feed its clientele.

W.G. Tomko opens 40,000 square-foot expansion

W.G. Tomko Inc. opened its new 40,000 square-foot expansion at its Finleyville headquarters, with a major emphasis on its fabrication shop.

The project, originally announced in June 2015, was showcased Friday with tours of the new area.

Steel Nation debuts turnkey energy services

Steel Nation, which for several years has provided design and construction services for natural gas compression stations in the region, announced Steel Nation Turn-Key Energy Services, a single-source solution for all oil and gas construction projects throughout the Marcellus and Utica shales, and other North American shale plays.

New operator, owner take over at The Meadows

The Meadows Racetrack & Casino has a new owner and operator.

Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board Wednesday unanimously approved the change of control of the slot machine license held by Washington Trotting Association, operator of The Meadows Racetrack & Casino, to Las Vegas-based Pinnacle Entertainment Inc.

Washington City Mission breaks ground for veterans shelter

For years, City Mission officials prioritized a need to assist homeless veterans. A campaign to build a shelter exclusively for those who served was gaining momentum when a fire in the main building last summer derailed plans.

Thanks to community support, the men’s shelter was restored in less than a year, allowing progress toward the Veterans Residential Facility.

Mon Valley Alliance selects CEO

Five months after its formation, Mon Valley Alliance has a chief executive officer.

The MVA board announced Tuesday Christopher Whitlatch will begin serving in that capacity in mid-September. He has more than two decades of nonprofit and corporate experience, including the past seven years as director of digital initiations/communications with the Pittsburgh Foundation.

ANSYS makes leadership changes

ANSYS, the Southpointe-based global provider of engineering simulation software, announced a leadership succession plan.

Plastics manufacturer Retal to locate in Donora, create 88 jobs

An international plastics packaging manufacturer will create 88 jobs as it opens a regional headquarters and production plant in Donora.

According to an announcement Tuesday from Gov. Tom Wolf, Retal PA LLC, which purchased an existing 140,000-square-foot facility at 55 S. Washington St., is investing at least $15 million, with company estimates reaching $24 million, to purchase machinery equipment and training for new employees. The company has also committed to create 88 new, full-time jobs over the next three years.

Developer makes a push for South Strabane project

The owner of a 153-acre parcel of land adjacent to Tanger Outlets in South Strabane Township offered to fund maintenance of a public road in an attempt to establish a multiple-use development there.

Chapman Properties informed the board of supervisors Tuesday it would fund maintenance of a portion of Tanger Boulevard for 10 years if the township assumes responsibility for the road. Chapman maintains the private road would have to be transferred to the township in order to develop the property.

HCB Foundry gives South Strabane an offer they could not refuse

A developer that recently filed a lawsuit against South Strabane extended an olive branch Tuesday, ultimately ceasing litigation against the township.

Jonathan Kamen, an attorney representing HCB Foundry, told supervisors his client would rather “put money toward the township instead of legal fees.”

Sweet expansion: Bethel Bakery to open second location in North Strabane

Bethel Bakery had its company picnic Sunday in South Park. John and Chris Walsh served an unexpectedly sweet treat.

The owners of the iconic Bethel Park shop announced they were expanding their footprint into the next county. They are going to open a second location – a retail operation – in North Strabane Towne Center, meaning more jobs, more opportunities, more goodies.

Food service firm signs Zenith Ridge lease

Burns & Scalo Real Estate has secured a lease from Elior North America for 7,000 square feet in Zenith Ridge II in Southpointe II.

Mattress, dental firms committed to retail project at Sharp’s site

Steel is rising at the front of the former Sharp’s Furniture property, where a strip shopping center is in the earliest stages of development. Two tenants will occupy that building, and the owner has identified them.

Houston to be ethane source point for Shell pipeline project

A subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell plans to build a 94-mile pipeline to carry ethane to the cracker plant Shell is preparing to build in Beaver County.

According to a statement released Wednesday by Shell spokesman Ray Fisher, the pipeline will carry ethane produced by natural gas drilling companies in the tri-state area.

Washington Crown Center sold for $20 million

Washington Crown Center, which was on the block since early 2015, was sold to a New York-based mall operator for $20 million.

The finalization of the sale, pending since mid-July, was announced Tuesday by Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust, which sold the 676,000-square-foot North Franklin Township retail center to Kohan Retail Investment Group, based in Great Neck, N.Y.

Global company plans opening in Canton Twp.

D&S Industrial Fasteners, a global company, is launching its first retail outlet this week in Canton Township.

Route 19 has groundswell of earth-moving projects

Summertime and the construction is busy.

The diverging diamond interchange with Interstate 70 isn’t the only project going full bore along Route 19 in Washington County. Earth is being moved and structures are going up throughout a four-mile stretch of North and South Strabane townships – from Meadowbrook Drive to Murtland Avenue.

Southpointe Fieldhouse moving because of Southern Beltway

A zoning change request Monday revealed Southpointe Fieldhouse and Fairfield Landscaping are being forced from their locations on Cecil-Henderson Road because of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission’s looming Southern Beltway project.

Peaks & Valleys: Despite energy’s downturn, Southpointe’s occupancy rate still shines

When the industry overproduced as a result of the increasing efficiencies of unconventional drilling, and prices for the fuel fell drastically, drilling slowed to a crawl at the beginning of 2015, and the need by energy companies for space in the park fell off.

But real estate professionals say Southpointe’s occupancy rates have barely declined, nor has its status as an energy center. They have, however, seen a shift to non-energy tenants who aren’t impacted by energy’s downturn.

Uber coming to Washington, Greene counties

The global ride-sharing provider, which operated in Pittsburgh for the past 2 1/2 years, is expanding its service in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Uber announced Thursday morning it was spreading out to seven counties surrounding Allegheny, including Washington and Greene. Fayette, Westmoreland, Armstrong, Butler and Indiana also are part of that larger footprint.

Washington Trust Building to receive $279K renovation

Washington City Council Thursday approved a low-interest loan of several hundred thousand dollars to help the Pittsburgh developer that owns Washington Trust Building pay for renovations in the six-story commercial space at the front of the building.

The unanimous vote allows Washington County Redevelopment Authority to lend $279,000 in city funds to Trek Development Group.

Mad Mex to open Aug. 8 along lake

Mad Mex to open Aug. 8 is a shore bet for Mad Mex Lakeside.

A spokesman for big Burrito Restaurant Group, the Pittsburgh-based parent company, said the Mexican dining spot is targeted to open that day. He said Monday morning construction is almost complete and employees are receiving two weeks of training.

Washington native launches Bacon, Bourbon & Beer

Shawn Janovich had owned a bar, but had never built one. So he underestimated the launch of Bacon, Bourbon & Beer.

Permitting, licensing, contracting, purchasing, construction and about 100 other variables take time and prevented him from opening the upscale restaurant last fall, as he initially hoped; last winter, his revised target; or this spring.

Mylan tight-lipped on plans for second HQ building

Generic pharmaceutical giant Mylan N.V. is planning to expand its administrative headquarters operations by one-third in Southpointe II after the company received approval Monday for height variances on a five-story building that would connect to its existing office space.

A pedestrian bridge connecting both office buildings would be constructed at each building’s second floor, according to design plans submitted to the Cecil Township Zoning Hearing Board.

Chick-fil-A Express coming to Cal U.

A Chick-fil-A Express is scheduled to open Aug. 29 in Natali Student Center in response to requests from students who wanted a quick-service restaurant on campus, Cal U. announced Monday.

Donora sells former bank building to business owners

Amid opposition from a few community members, Donora Council voted unanimously Thursday to approve a bid of $31,000 for the sale of the former Community Bank building at 600 Meldon Ave.

The bid was made by Daniel and Angela Gorman of Black Diamond, who are small business owners.

Winery Tasting Room, Distillery To Open This Week

A winery and a distillery will have openings of different sorts in Washington County this week.

J&D Cellars, in Eighty Four, will have a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. today. The facility, at 290 Roupe Road, will open its new tasting room/building and wine-making area.

Landmark finalizes GG&C Bus Co. purchase

Landmark Student Transportation said Tuesday it completed its purchase of GG&C Bus Co. Inc.

The company’s purchase of GG&C from previous owner John Lenzner was announced in late 2015.

According to a news release, privately held Landmark, headquartered in Aurora, Ontario, operates school bus companies in Canada and in the United States, providing contracted student transportation services.

Washington County to buy airport hangar, office for $1.76 million

With a state Bureau of Aviation grant of as much as $1 million and a matching amount from the Local Share Account of gambling revenue from The Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Washington County plans to purchase the hangar and office from Air Charter Service and Business Aviation Center at the county airport.

New Family Dollar under construction in Bentleyville

A new Family Dollar store is under construction on Bentleyville’s Main Street not far from where a district judge is preparing to open a restaurant.

McIlvried, DiDiano & Max of Pittsburgh is preparing the site next to the borough building at 900 Main St. for construction.

Auto parts store coming to Washington

O’Reilly Auto Parts, a specialty retailer of automotive parts, tools, equipment and accessories, is one step closer to setting up shop in Washington.

City council on Thursday approved a use-by-right application for development on the northeast corner of Jefferson and Oakland avenues, pending approval by the zoning hearing board. The plan calls for consolidation of five lots, from 750 to 790 Jefferson Avenue, including the former City Mission Hidden Treasures store and Shuba Auto Sales.

Caterer moves to expanded space in Canonsburg, preps new service

Patty Walker acknowledges the business of catering can be a short-lived career, given the many variables – from intense competition for clients to the quality of the food – that can quickly tank the enterprise.

Walker, 48, who launched PW Catering in the basement of her Eighty Four home a decade ago, has been meeting those challenges, creating a recipe for success that moved her to an expanded level of the business.

HVAC firm moves into WashArts building

JB Mechanical Inc., a heating, ventilation, air conditioning and plumbing company, has moved into 70 South St. in Washington.

North Strabane company seeks move south; developer requests Tanger Blvd. made public

William R. Matthews III, Ensinger’s vice president of administration, said the plan is to develop a 31-acre tract as their North American headquarters. The $40 million complex will encompass offices, manufacturing space and a robotic warehouse system.

A few obstacles could stand in Ensinger’s way.

Cecil Township approves residential development along Montour Trail

Cecil Township supervisors voted 4-1 Monday to give tentative approval to NVR Homes for a 104-acre townhome plan on McConnell Road along the Montour Trail.

Shell commits to Western Pennsylvania ethane cracker plant

Shell Chemical Appalachia LLC said Tuesday it’s building a petrochemical plant that will create up to 6,000 construction jobs and 600 permanent jobs once it begins production early next decade.

Construction will begin in the next 18 months, with the goal of bringing the Western Pennsylvania plant online early in the 2020s, the company said.

Business leaders see broad impact from Shell cracker decision

The news of Shell’s decision to build an ethane cracker plant in Beaver County was given a unanimous thumbs-up by business and industry leaders across the region Tuesday.

Allegheny Conference: Shell petrochemical complex is “once-in-a-generation” investment for Greater Pittsburgh region

On behalf of the Pittsburgh region, the Allegheny Conference congratulates Shell on the announcement of its positive final investment decision today to build a multibillion-dollar, state-of-the-art cracker facility here.  

Global plastics firm headed to Donora Industrial Park

A global plastics producer is coming to America – Donora specifically.

Retal Industries Ltd., a Cyprus-based firm, is locating in Donora Business Park. That not only will be the company’s U.S. headquarters, but its lone operation in the States.

New downtown building on the rise in Monongahela

A new commercial building is under construction on a vacant lot in historic Monongahela in a Mon Valley region where downtown demolition projects have tended to be the norm.

Monongahela furniture store owner Claudia Williams broke ground Thursday on the 26-foot-wide building on a lot in the 100 block of Main Street beside property where a blighted former hotel stood before she had it demolished in 2011

Dickey’s Barbecue opens today in Trinity Point

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, the nation’s largest barbecue franchise, is making its Southwestern Pennsylvania debut today at the Trinity Point shopping center.

Canonsburg gas station among those licensed to sell beer

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board is granting nine more licenses to businesses that sell gasoline, including one in Canonsburg. It’s the latest step in loosening the hold on beer sales by bars and beer distributors.

City planners give approval to Trust Building renovation

After years of planning, developers are ready to revitalize the historic Washington Trust Building.

Trek Development Group, owner of the building since 2013, obtained conditional use approval from the City of Washington’s planning commission Wednesday to convert the 10-story “annex” portion of the building into 24 one-bedroom rental units. Current commercial office renters will move to the original six-story structure at the corner of South Main and East Beau streets.

Mon Valley Alliance acquires old Charleroi football stadium

Charleroi Area School Board agreed to sell the former high school football stadium Tuesday for $1 to an economic development group that plans to use the property to connect the borough to the Monongahela River.

Washington company buys energy business

Washington, Pa.-based GeoSpatial Innovations Inc. has acquired an energy transmission software business from a California company.

Terms of the deal for Trimble Energy Transmission Solutions weren't disclosed. The division being sold created software for engineers and field workers on overhead power lines.

WHS doctors groups merging, moving to Park Place

Two internal medicine practices affiliated with Washington Health System are merging and moving. 

Southpointe barre3 to open Monday

Rohall, a Southpointe native, is the owner of barre3, an exercise facility that will open Monday at 1800 Main St. in Southpointe II’s Town Center. Classes and onsite child care the first week –through May 22 – will be free.

Home care firm opens in Peters

The company recently opened its first office in the region, at 3244 Washington Road, Suite 239, in Peters Township. It is called the Southwest Pittsburgh location, and is near Arlecchino Ristorante.

City commission to hear plans for Trust Building project

A proposed project long on the drawing boards to rehabilitate one of downtown Washington’s landmark buildings will be discussed during a meeting of the city planning commission May 25.

According to a public notice published in Wednesday’s Observer-Reporter, commission members will discuss a conditional-use application for rehabilitation of Washington Trust Building at South Main and East Beau streets.

Cokeburg native launches Washington’s first legal distillery since Prohibition

The first legal distillery in Washington County since Prohibition is a source of grape expectations.

Red Pump’s liqueurs are colorful and colorfully named – Jefferson Peach, Washington Cherry, Bradford Blackberry. The brand names are nods to Washington & Jefferson College and the David Bradford House.

Major I-70 work heading for Washington, Westmoreland counties

Interstate 70 will continue to have major construction zones in Washington and Westmoreland counties through 2020 under the four-year draft transportation improvement program released Friday by Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission.

County purchasing property for airport

Washington County Redevelopment Authority, which operates Washington County Airport, has asked the Washington County commissioners to approve the purchase of one acre from the Lutes estate, 826 Mounts Road, at a price not to exceed $66,000.

Planning commission OKs proposal for nonprofit center

Commerce Street Partners LLC, plans to build a 5,200-square-foot community center at 59 E. Strawberry Alley, with six offices available for nonprofit organizations to lease. The facility will have a board room, kitchen area and additional space to be developed later.

Smith Township approves new power substation

Greater demand on the power grid has FirstEnergy installing a new substation at 385 Harmon Creek Road. Smith Township supervisors unanimously approved Friday a conditional-use application for Allegheny Line Co., a FirstEnergy subsidiary, to proceed with its plans to build a three-acre pad on the 22-acre property.

Veterninary clinic among several Peters Township projects

Former steel mill brownfield site in Donora will be home to Airgas Inc., sewage authority pump station

Washington County Redevelopment Authority found buyers for two tracts of land in the 11-acre Donora Industrial Park, site of a former U.S. Steel plant, and officials announced Wednesday they expect to close in June.

Pitt Building LP of Pittsburgh intends to purchase six acres for $250,000 and construct 12,500 square feet of warehouse for a distribution center and 3,500 square feet of office space for Airgas Inc. of Radnor, Delaware County, which expects to employ 26 people.

Dog care facility opening in Washington

Stephanie Cook is opening Pampered Paw Resort, a dog care and do-it-yourself dog-washing location at 254 N. Main St., Washington.

She is labeling it as an “all-inclusive dog care facility.” Dogs will have a playroom, mingle with other dogs, take walks in a side yard and relax in a fenced-in area — while being monitored by staff.

Dunkin’ coming to Street at the Meadows

Dunkin’ Donuts did not have a presence in Washington County a year ago. It now has a growing one.

MEI opens Houston showroom, plans second building

McCutcheon Enterprises Inc. officially opened an equipment showroom Wednesday, aimed at a wide customer base that includes the oil and gas and construction industries, as well as area homeowners.

Company officials also noted they will build a second adjacent building just behind the new structure at 23 W. Pike St. for maintenance of its rental equipment and its fleet of trucks.

Jacksons bar, restaurant reopens after redo

Jacksons Bar+Restaurant reopened following a three-month renovation.

The 15-year-old nightspot and meeting place, adjacent to the Hilton Garden Inn at Southpointe, was back in business Sunday, 84 days after closing for a rehab that was largely cosmetic.

Wolf announces Tech Met’s Donora expansion

Gov. Tom Wolf said Friday Tech Met Inc., a custom and standard chemical milling company, will expand operations in the Donora Industrial Park, a move that will result in 41 new, full-time jobs.

Smith: Region’s workforce, transportation issues are Pittsburgh Chamber’s focus

As a former state legislator, Matt Smith represented the interests of a broad swath of constituents in Southwestern Pennsylvania.

Now he’s out of politics, but as president of the Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce, Smith demonstrated Friday he continues to hold the business and economic interests of the entire region close to his heart.

Millcraft Investments launches insurance subsidiary

Cornerstone Insurance Advisors, a subsidiary of Millcraft Investments, has opened its operations as a new insurance agency in the Western Pennsylvania region with offices in Pittsburgh as well as at Crossroads Center, 95 W. Beau St., Suite 610, Washington.

84 Lumber on Forbes’ ‘Best Mid-Size Employers’ list

84 Lumber Co., the nation’s leading privately held building materials and services supplier, has been named to Forbes’ 2016 list of America’s 250 Best Mid-Size Employers.

The company said in a press release Thursday that companies were selected based on a survey conducted by Forbes, in partnership with Statista.com, of more than 30,000 employees working for large or mid-size firms — with 1,000 or more employees — across 25 industries.

cfsbank to build Southpointe branch

Thirteen months after adopting a new identity, cfsbank is expanding its family.

The Charleroi-based institution announced Wednesday it will open a branch in Southpointe. The bank, according to a news release, acquired property on Technology Drive, where it will construct an 11,000-square-foot branch/administrative building. The target for opening is fourth quarter this year or first quarter 2017.

DreBo expanding in Coal Center; TechMet seeking loan for Donora operation

Two projects that bring with them the promise of jobs in the Mon Valley are to be considered by the Washington County commissioners today.

William McGowen, executive director of the Washington County Redevelopment Authority, told Commission Vice Chairman Diana Irey Vaughan and Commissioner Harlan Shober that Caltech 7 Partners LP, part of Crossgates Inc., intends to purchase 3.862 acres in California Technology Park to double the size of DreBo America, a manufacturer of carbide-tipped drill bits used for the processing of stone and concrete.

APR Supply to open Meadow Lands location

APR Supply Co., a Lebanon County-based HVAC and plumbing distributor has announced the opening on Monday of a new joint branch location with Schaedler Yesco Distribution at 255 Country Club Road in Meadow Lands.

Canonsburg selected top town for retirees

Many recreation opportunities and plenty of doctors make Canonsburg the top town in Pennsylvania for retirees, according to a survey by a New York financial technology company.

SmartAsset recently released its second annual study on the Best Places to Retire in Pennsylvania. Canonsburg came in first, ahead of Doylestown, Mechanicsburg and Uniontown.

Meadows license, gaming assets sold for $138M

The soon-to-be-owner of the Meadows Racetrack and Casino has reached a $138 million deal with a Las Vegas-based casino operator for the gaming licenses and gaming-related assets of the North Strabane attraction.

Glassport manufacturer seeks loan to expand in Donora Industrial Park

A Glassport company has applied to the Washington County Industrial Development Authority for a $3.2 million tax-free loan to expand a portion of its manufacturing operations to Donora Industrial Park.

Veterinary hospital opening second location in South Hills

he Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center plans to open a South Hills facility in order to keep up with growing demand for its services.

2016 Athena Award Finalists Announced

The Washington County Chamber of Commerce has announced the finalists for the 2016 Washington County Athena Award. They are:

  • Teresa Babyak, director of operations with Washington Health System, Washington Physicians Group
  • Joyce D. Ellis, executive director of the LeMoyne Community Center
  • Dr. Natalie Furgiuele of Mon-Vale Specialty Practices
  • Jana Grimm, a lawyer with Steptoe & Johnson PLLC
  • Geraldine M. Jones, interim president at California University of Pennsylvania

A new ‘40’ being readied on former Club 40 site

If the walls could talk, they’d have 65 years of stories to tell about Club 40, a popular restaurant/bar.

Club 40 shut down more than four years ago, but its exterior walls remain, and starting this summer, they may have new but similar stories to tell.

Pet products store moves

Healthy Pet Products is heading for a new home.

The store, which sells only natural and organic dog and cat food, plans to open April 11 at 3043 Washington Road, Peters Township.

MIDA, Mon Valley Progress Council announce merger

Two economic development organizations joined forces Thursday for the well-being of the Mon Valley.

Middle Monongahela Industrial Development Association and Mon Valley Progress Council finalized their consolidation Thursday into a body known as Mon Valley Alliance.

New Southpointe company the latest shale player

At a time of suppressed demand, a new Southpointe firm is entering the oil and natural gas fray.

American Petroleum Partners LLC plans to get into exploration and production in the Marcellus and Utica shales. Its headquarters are at 380 Southpointe Blvd.

Census figures show slight gain in Washington, 3 percent drop in Greene

The perception that the Marcellus Shale boom has led to a regional population boom was dispelled, according to county estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The bureau estimated populations for all counties nationwide between April 1, 2010, and July 1, 2015. Pennsylvania State Data Center, based at Penn State’s Harrisburg campus, reported census figures for the state’s 67 counties Thursday.

Canonsburg natural gas company launches with $800M commitment

American Petroleum Partners LLC, which was founded in 2014, forged what it called a strategic partnership with Apollo in September 2015. The company is run by CEO Varun Mishra, who worked at EOG Resources and in the Barnett Shale before overseeing the technical team at Rice Energy. It said in a news release Wednesday that Apollo's funds could invest up to $800 million in acquisitions and development in Appalachia.

Mariner East 1 pipeline completed; now shipping ethane, propane

Sunoco Logistics Partners LP said Thursday Mariner East 1, the first pipeline in the larger Mariner East system, is now transporting both ethane and propane to the Marcus Hook Industrial Complex in Delaware County.

Mad Mex Lakeside newest restaurant in North Strabane

Mad Mex restaurant is targeted to open in mid-June in North Strabane Township. It will occupy the space where On Deck Bar and Grill previously operated, on Lakeside Drive North. Called Mad Mex Lakeside, the restaurant will be off Route 19, across the lake behind Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza and across from Little Lake Theatre.

Southwest Pa. creates bulk of natural gas production growth statewide in 2015

While depressed natural gas prices stemmed the growth of exploration and drilling activity in the Marcellus and Utica shale plays during 2015, production growth in southwestern Pennsylvania outpaced the state as a whole and accounted for the bulk of the industry’s expansion statewide in 2015.

Buford’s Kitchen bringing southern accent to ‘Street’ development

Buford’s Kitchen plans to open Thursday at 100 Adios Drive, in a mixed-use project that, when completed, will be anchored by luxury apartments. Southern cuisine and hospitality will predominate, adding to the diverse dining opportunities already available there, downhill from The Meadows Racetrack & Casino.

Smith Twp. cryogenic gas plant moves forward

A cryogenic natural gas processing plant is a step closer to reality after the Smith Township board of supervisors voted 3-0 at its third conditional use hearing Monday to approve Energy Transfer Company’s plan for operations.

Contractor signs lease in Southpointe

Horizon Properties Group announced Thursday that Monaro LLC has signed a lease in Southpointe II.

Monaro, a multidisciplined contractor, will occupy 5,486 square feet in J. Barry Center, 4600 J. Barry Court.

Southpointe gym closes, but may reopen as one of three fitness sites in park

The Health Club at Southpointe, at 1001 Corporate Drive, closed after business Monday. Business manager Eugenia Brandemarte, however, said there are negotiations to relocate the club within the mixed-use park, along with Bradley Physical Therapy and Galley’s Place restaurant, which are at the same address.

All roads lead to Southern Beltway completion

“For the first time in my career in this business, we have a sustainable and viable plan to complete all the sections of the Southern Beltway and the Mon-Fayette Expressway,” Mark Compton, CEO of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, told a recent breakfast gathering of NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association.

Commissioners: Diversified economy keeping Washington County on an even keel

While acknowledging the current downturn in the area’s energy industry, Washington County commissioners said Thursday the county’s diversified economy will keep things on an even keel until oil and gas turns around.

The message was part of the annual “State of the Economy” address presented to more than 250 members of Washington County Chamber of Commerce at the Hilton Garden Inn, Southpointe.

Charleroi School Board votes to sell old stadium, Atlas building

Charleroi Area School Board on Tuesday voted to sell the former Atlas property at McKean Avenue and Second Street and the old high school football stadium at 200 Second St. to a private developer who wants to put a grocery store and restaurant at the sites.

Reaxis heading to top global trade fair

A McDonald company is among a group of Pennsylvania firms that will participate in an international trade fair this spring, according to a news release from the Pittsburgh office of U.S. Commercial Service.

Officials from Reaxis Inc., a specialty chemicals manufacturer on Robinson Highway (Route 980), will attend Hannover Messe in Hannover, Germany, April 25-29.

Mylan wants to build 1,407-space parking garage for Southpointe headquarters

Mylan NV is planning to build a 1,407-space parking garage to serve its headquarters at Southpointe II.

The company recently submitted an application for the new four-story garage to Cecil Township.

Cecil eyes new residential development on Montour Trail

Following a public hearing Monday, developers with NVR Inc. hope to have Cecil Township supervisors approve their plans within 45 days for a 104-acre subdivision with 291 townhomes or duplexes near the Montour Trail.  

NVR, the parent company of Ryan Homes and Heartland Homes, is seeking waivers, according to township manager Don Gennuso, for grading along property buffers and using Burnside Road – a local road – as a main entrance to the proposed development situated on McConnell Road.

County taking first steps toward land bank to fight blight

Washington County commissioners plan to vote today to advertise an ordinance they expect to enact March 3 setting up what’s known as a “land bank,” a pathway to return blighted properties to the tax rolls.

The board has tasked the Washington County Redevelopment Authority with administering the new program because the authority already “does a lot of what land banks are going to do,” said William McGowan, executive director.

Crafty move: Art-related business switching city locations

Stone House Vintage Market opened in downtown Washington in August. Six months later, it is leaving.

But that isn’t a bad thing, for the owners or the city. Jennifer Hoffman and her spouse, Sean Fox, plan to relocate their market from 254 N. Main St. to 899 E. Maiden St. – and into a more workable location.

CCAC advances Donora school project

Community College of Allegheny County will advance plans to open a new workforce training center at the former Donora elementary school site.

The college’s board of directors Thursday adopted a resolution defining the Donora project as a “reasonable prospect” that would result in educating students in such trades as construction and welding to allow small and emerging businesses to grow, CCAC records show.

Newest CNG fueling station opens to fleet demand

Washington County officially received its latest compressed natural gas fueling station Thursday, an indication that demand from area company fleets remains strong despite CNG’s price parity with unleaded regular gasoline.

North Strabane mulls options for senior housing

Presbyterian SeniorCare and Laurel Communities are working on plans for a 57-acre site on McDowell Lane near Canonsburg Lake, with seven acres dedicated to a four-story senior apartment complex and 50 acres dedicated to active senior housing with single-story carriage homes.

Escape Room attraction opens in Charleroi

The game begins when a group of friends or coworkers find themselves restrained in a small room in search of clues that will set them free during a bank robbery that appears to be botched from the beginning.

From there they move from station to station at 5th Street Escape Room in Charleroi, where different codes need to be broken in order for them to reach and open a bank vault to successfully complete the adventure.

Washington County participating in apartment construction trend

Apartments are hot nationwide, and Washington County is feeling that heat.

Nearly 700 units are in various stages of construction at three mixed-use projects. And, if approved, another 200 to 220 will be built in the Old Mill retail complex in South Strabane Township.

Orchid Body Salon

Tina Buxton has opened Orchid Body Salon at 695 W. Chestnut St., offering traditional Chinese massage therapy, including body massage and foot reflexology.

Columbia Gas to replace Speers pipelines

A natural gas supplier will invest $2.8 million to replace its pipelines in the Mon Valley borough of Speers.

Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania will begin the work this month in the borough’s Grandview and Upper Speers neighborhoods, the company announced Monday.

‘Sweeties’ baking strategy will soon be twice as nice

Her facility has a sweet presence on Route 40 in Beallsville, and is about to establish another 18 miles to the west. Johns will be opening a second Sweetie’s at 1 Humbert Lane, South Strabane Township – just off North Main Street and barely across the Washington line.

North Belle Vernon firm opening plant in Donora

A food-consulting operation that focuses on the confectionery industry will open a production facility in Donora Industrial Park.

Richeyville gets a new business

Following the disappearance of several businesses, Richeyville is watching one materialize.

A Dollar General store is being built on Route 40, across from a CVS pharmacy and next to a former PNC Bank branch. PennTex Ventures of Greensburg is erecting it during this El Nino-influenced winter, with a spring target for opening.

FirstEnergy studies reopening Hatfield’s Ferry plant

FirstEnergy Corp. is conducting a long-term study to determine whether it is feasible to reopen its Hatfield’s Ferry Power Plant in Monongahela Township, Greene County.

FirstEnergy Corp. is conducting a long-term study to determine whether it is feasible to reopen its Hatfield’s Ferry Power Plant in Monongahela Township, Greene County.

A Canonsburg woman, who was selling her baked goods at farmers markets and online, is going bricks and mortar.

Liza Betsch will open Fabulous Homemade Cookies at 800 First St. in her hometown. She planned a grand opening/ribbon cutting for Jan. 30.

Proposed hydroelectric power plants on Mon River under federal review

A federal government agency is accepting public comments on a Boston firm’s application to build 13 power plants at dams along Pittsburgh’s three rivers, including four along the Monongahela River in Washington, Greene and Fayette counties.