 |
|
|
BARC -- Who are we?In 1989 Mon Valley Initiative (MVI) community organizers came to Brownsville to garner a group of community leaders to form a grass roots effort. They taught this group the essentials to organize a Community Development Corporation (CDC) known as Brownsville Area Revitalization Corporation (BARC), to form the articles of incorporation, and to register the 501c3 non profit status; thus BARC was established. The MVI was established through a grant from Senator John A. Heinz, who wanted to see the Mon Valley come back to life after the decline of the steel industry. BARC is a 501c3 non-profit, charitable organization governed by an 11 member board of directors who meet monthly. BARC follows the by-laws and policies established by the board using Roberts' rules. Its mission is to revitalize the community through revitalization. The strategic location of the Flatiron Building positions it perfectly for drawing together the North side and the downtown area, both historic districts. Neighboring buildings can take advantage of facade improvement programs; the renovated Flatiron Building contributes significantly to the continued renewal of the Brownsville community. BARC produces a newsletter named the Enterprise to keep interested groups and residents informed of progress on the current BARC initiatives. BARC has completed many improvements to the community, including a planter wall with a kiosk of events in the community; the Community Gateway Program was funded by a state grant to establish a floral bed visible to travelers, a tree-planting program, a community directory, and many other organizational involvement projects. One of BARC's completed projects, the renovation of the Flatiron Building as a Heritage Center/Visitor's Center, will enable the downtown to capitalize on the growing tourism trade of Nemacolin Castle. This expansion project now includes BARC offices and, through the help of the Eberly Foundation, the Frank L. Melega Art Museum, home of the nationally renowned local artist's work. Plans continue for other BARC endeavors. |
Brownsville Area Revitalization Corp. is an equal opportunity provider. |
