Fall 2019 Newsletter

Download the full newsletter here.

Art Force

How will the youth of our community lead neighborhood change to create stronger West Bayfront neighborhoods? Thanks to “Art Force”, an exciting project that will engage Strong Vincent Middle School students in creative problem solving through art, we will find out this year. Looking Glass Project artists (and West Bayfront residents) Tom Ferraro and Ed Grout will work with Strong Vincent Middle School students during a year-long after school project that will ask students to identify issues they’ve experienced in the West Bayfront, and work together to come up with art-based solutions. This project, supported by Erie Arts and Culture, Our West Bayfront, and a grant from Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, will be a wonderful opportunity for students to leverage the transformational power of art to support neighborhood improvement.

To begin their work, the students need your input. Tell us a specific location in your neighborhood (an address, a block, an intersection, a park, etc.) that could be improved or enhanced in some way. To submit your answer(s) and to keep updated on this project visit our Facebook page at fb.me/ArtForceWestBayfront.

Only in Our West Bayfront… Shop Locally this Holiday Season

This holiday season, support our local businesses and shop locally right here in the West Bayfront! Our restaurants, salons, shops and more offer unique products and services that would make the perfect gift for the lucky people on your shopping list.

For the foodies in your life, a gift certificate to a local restaurant like Pineapple Eddie or Three B Saloon would hit the spot. Give a loved one the pampering he or she deserves at a local spa such as Lena Salon & Spa or Sophrosyne Center Therapeutic Massage & Yoga. Get some help preparing holiday meals and family events from local restaurants and pizzerias like Virgil’s Plate or Porky’s Pizzeria. Frame a unique print for a friend at U-Frame-It, and host out of town guests at Spencer House Bed & Breakfast right on 6th Street.

For a full list of businesses to support in the West Bayfront visit ourwestbayfront.org and Like us on Facebook for news about specials and events throughout this holiday season!

Re-STORE West 8th Street Update

A vibrant, neighborhood-focused retail district that serves the needs of nearby residents in the heart of a community. We see the potential for the West 8th Street to flourish, providing the shops and services that West Bayfront residents need while creating a welcoming environment for visitors. Thanks to a generous $250,000 grant by Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority through its Mission Main Streets program, work is now underway on Re-STORE West 8th Street, an exciting initiative that will strengthen the West 8th Street commercial corridor between Sassafrass and Walnut Streets. The funds will be used for a variety of activities including matching grants to improve nearly 20 properties, the installation of security cameras, and beautification of vacant lots. Our West Bayfront is also collaborating with the City of Erie to improve walking and bicycling conditions along West 8th Street.

Awesome Foundation

Did you know that YOU can apply for a $1,000 Awesome Foundation grant to bring a great idea to life? The OWB Awesome Foundation provides “no strings attached” funding to projects that make our community safer, more beautiful, more fun, or healthier. Visit ourwestbayfront.org/awesomefoundation to apply before the next deadline of December 31.

Neighborhood Associations and Watch Groups

One of the best ways to connect with neighbors and solve problems that impact your block is through your neighborhood associations or watch groups. There are currently six neighborhood groups within the West Bayfront led by volunteers, and they need you!

Over the last few months these groups have addressed nuisance properties, skunk management, traffic safety, public art, and more. These groups work together to organize community events, neighborhood cleanups, and yard sales. Officers from the Erie Police Department and City Hall staff typically attend these meetings, providing residents the opportunity to communicate directly about their questions and concerns.

Not sure which group serves your area? Please contact us at 814-871-7050 or anna@ourwestbayfront.org.