Every Monday we shine a spotlight on one of our Chamber Members. This week’s Member Feature shines that spotlight on the 79-80 IDC. Often working in the background, you may not be familiar with this organization. Read on to learn more about what they do.
Please provide a short description of your organization and what you do.
The 79-80 Interstate Development Corporation (79-80 IDC) is a group of member companies and individuals that are organized for the promotion and development of the Eastern Mercer County Area and partnership areas. The area includes the Grove City School District, the region up to and including Mercer borough, Barkeyville and Slippery Rock.
79-80 IDC is engaged in a number of activities in a variety of areas. The corporation has ties to Penn Northwest Development Corporation which acts as the lead for economic development in Mercer County. It also coordinates the development activities of our region with that of the county to provide the best opportunities with our region and area.
Additionally, the corporation acts in concert with the local governments and school districts to provide information and act as a conduit between the members and these taxing agencies. The board members are active; some are elected members, with these public bodies which enhances the communication between public and private entities. The corporation also has close ties to the areas’ Chambers of Commerce and acts as a liaison between the business community, development agencies and government officials.
Through the years the 79-80 IDC has been active in a number of initiatives that have been a benefit to the area. These include but are not limited to Forta Fiber, GE, Grove City Premium Outlets, Reynolds Food Packaging (formerly Ivex). This group has often been the lead organization in these projects, coordinating the activities of both public and private entities, to achieve positive results and bring jobs that have made this area of the county, vibrant and the choice of these and other companies to come here.
The role of this group is to have a long term perspective of the development needs of the area. This often means the activities of the group are often not seen, but are vital to the success of many of the projects that have brought vitality to the area. Many of the initiatives lay the ground work that must be in place in order to attract the type of development and growth that will be most beneficial to the area. Very often the group is involved with infrastructure needs, site development and activities with local and state groups to obtain the consensus and funding that are always required to achieve success.
What is the story behind your business or how it got started?
The organization began in the 1950’s and has close ties to the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce. Focused on economic development, the organization has had numerous projects over the years which have helped the area to grow.
What is the service that you provide that customers use the most?
The focus of the 79-80 IDC has always been on economic development. Over the years, the group has become a facilitator that brings together the parties necessary to tackle issues and find avenues for growth. The organization is often called upon to answer questions about the area in relation to development.
What is something people would be surprised to know about the organization?
The 79-80 IDC often acts behind the scenes. We have been called upon to assist with many projects over the years, and usually do not seek the limelight for our efforts. We feel it is important work that needs to be done, and the results speak for themselves. We have been a part of bringing businesses to Grove City, like GE and the Grove City Premium Outlets, to more recently, assisting with the sewage and water issues in Springfield Township.
How has COVID-19 affected your organization?
During the pandemic, the 79-80 IDC has not met in person. We have remained available to answer questions as they arise. We look forward to meeting together again in-person, and assisting with future projects in our target area.
How can the community support you now and going forward?
Businesses and organizations can become members of the 79-80 IDC. Their membership helps our organization to exist and to help with economic development in the area. We are also always looking for volunteers willing to serve on committees and the board of directors.
Is there anything else you’d like us to talk about?
If people are aware of economic development needs in the area, please reach out to us so that we can see if we can assist.
Member Feature: 79-80 IDC
Mailing address: 119 S Broad Street, Grove City, PA 16127
Phone: 724-458-6410
Website: www.79-80idc.com
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