West Newton - August Update

I have been very active in West Newton this summer spending time with Downtown West Newton Inc (DWNI), Westmoreland Yough Trail Chapter (WYTC), and several businesses.
Working with DWNI in part with the preservation plan, I have been working on our educational outreach for the upcoming West Newton Community Days in September. For this event, DWNI Design and Promotions committees will be holding a booth to help promote the work of DWNI and the happenings in West Newton. I have created a handout for event visitors to go on a photo hunt for architectural details in downtown West Newton. This encourages them to explore the downtown and see details they may have never seen before. Other handouts will include a “preservation myths” information sheet for those interested in the potential West Newton historic district and a coloring book style photo image of the old B&O train station to be re-envisioned. Also, a slideshow will feature information about the GAP Trail, WYTC, DWNI, and historic photos.
Also, I am continuously working on the Downtown West Newton Historic District. At the end of July, I meet in town with Bill Callahan of Pennsylvania Museum and Historical Commission (PHMC) and Erin Hammerstadt of Preservation Pennsylvania. I had previously worked with Bill on a University of Pittsburgh course project. We did a survey of what I’ve been working on and what Erin and I considered already in previous walks in town. This was very helpful. We concluded that West Newton’s “story” would focus on its transportation history – starting with the ferry, introduction of the train, and advancements with the automobile and bridge. From here I have been able to focus my work and border for the district.
I also attend the monthly WYTC meetings at the West Newton Visitor’s Center. One assignment I worked on this month for them is finding a new use for the restored rail car. Members were interested in an artists’ co-op market. From this information, I contacted the I Made It Market based in Pittsburgh. The I Made It Market responded greatly. Many of their artists are looking for this type of opportunity, and it was also suggested to also include a workshop space for classes and other demonstrations. WYTC is currently continuing to see how this rail car can be utilized.
Other happenings in West Newton included visiting and contacting businesses in West Newton. I started by passing out Trail Town Program brochures to a pizza shops, visitors center, B&B, and restaurants. I also experienced my first GAPSBN assessment at the Trailside. Here I was able to see what goes on in the assessment and what businesses are doing as well as looking to do to become more sustainable in their practices. So far the Bright Morning Bed & Breakfast is scheduled for an assessment as a new member. Each visit I look to see interest of new members.
The remainder of the year in West Newton is packed with various events – Poker Run, Community Days, Oktoberfest, Car Cruise, and Miracle on Main to name a few. I look forward to helping out with these events and my monthly meetings for the remainder of the year.
-William Prince