WHEELING CITY COUNCIL SET TO ADVANCE OHIO VALLEY FOOD & INNOVATION HUB

Wheeling City Council is poised to advance the Ohio Valley Food and Innovation Hub, a major redevelopment planned for the 1400 block of Market Street. During its final meeting of 2025, council is expected to approve a resolution accepting a $2 million Section 108 Loan Guarantee from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, allowing the city to formalize agreements with Standard Cigar Works LLC, the project’s lead partner.

The loan funds will support the renovation of several historic city-owned buildings where the new hub will be located. City leaders previously estimated the redevelopment cost at roughly $11 million, financed through the Section 108 program alongside federal and state historic tax credits and New Market Tax Credits. The project is being framed as a catalyst for economic activity and small business development in downtown Wheeling.

Council will also vote on a resolution to shift the funding source for the Greenwood storm sewer improvement project. If approved, costs would move from federal ARPA relief funds to the city’s 2021 A Bonds, preserving previously allocated ARPA dollars for other priority needs. Additional first readings on the agenda cover expenditures for water pollution control equipment, software maintenance, cybersecurity upgrades, firewall subscriptions, and new police equipment.

Committee sessions held prior to the full meeting will review the city’s November financial report and discuss matters related to property and redevelopment. City officials continue to emphasize that these combined investments—spanning economic development, infrastructure, and public safety—are designed to support long-term growth and resilience across Wheeling.

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