Meg Hibbert
Contributing writer
Members of the Salem Economic Development Council got updates on façade grants, developments and future projects at the Oct 10 meeting of the Salem Economic Development Authority.
Planning and Economic Development Director Tommy Miller briefed EDA Chair Dave Robbins, Vice Chair Quinn Monghan, and members Paul Kuhnel, Cynthia Shelor and Macel Janoschka on conversion of two formerly vacant industrial properties. The meeting was held in Salem City Council Chambers.
STS Group North America Inc. is building at the rear of the former GE plant what it intends to be its North American headquarters in Salem. Parts will be manufactured for Volvo trucks. Miller confirmed the facility is on track to open by spring 2024 and employ 119 people. In answer to a question from an EDA member, Miller said hiring and training is already underway. There are 30 new hires with a goal of just over 40.
Miller said work on the Valleydale Multifamily Community on 8th Street is continuing. All the buildings of the former meat-packing plant have been demolished and fill dirt brought in as needed.
An informational meeting with East Bottom residents is planned for Nov. 8 at the Salem Civic Center, Miller said, to present plans and answer questions. Other Salem residents are invited, he added. Wayne Adkins has been working with business owners in East Bottom, Miller said.
Adkins updated EDA members on the mural program, and showed renderings of the mural being painted on the side of the All Sports building on Main Street. The cost for the All Sports mural is a total of $20,362, Adkins said.
Robbins said future murals are planned for Broad Street, the side of 2nd and Main (formerly Brooks Byrd). The EDA will pay for half and the businesses for the remainder, he explained.
Façade work will be done tying in Sports Haven and 2nd and Main, he said.
