What's New in West Chester! | | |
LONG STANTON MANUFACTURING POWERS THE FUTURE WITH NEW SOLAR ARRAY
Long Stanton Manufacturing, a leader in precision metal fabrication since 1835, is taking a bold step toward sustainability with the installation of a new solar array at its West Chester facility. This investment reinforces the company’s commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility while supporting long-term operational growth.
The newly installed solar array will provide a significant portion of the facility’s energy needs, reducing reliance on traditional power sources and decreasing overall carbon emissions. By integrating renewable energy into its operations, Long Stanton is ensuring cost-effective, reliable power while advancing its sustainability initiatives.
Innovation and Tradition Coexisting
Sustainability at Long Stanton isn’t just about solar panels—it’s about a philosophy of responsible manufacturing. Even as the company transitions to renewable energy, it continues to expand its capabilities in precision stamping, fabrication, and assembly for industries such as aerospace, medical, energy, and transportation. This investment in solar technology underscores the company’s long-standing mission: to integrate innovation with responsible business practices.
A Community-Driven Approach
As Long Stanton embraces renewable energy, it does so with a vision that extends far beyond the immediate benefits of solar power. It’s about securing a sustainable future, maintaining a competitive edge, and continuing to invest in both its workforce and the community. The transition to solar energy is not just an environmental win—it’s a strategic move that positions Long Stanton for long-term success in a rapidly evolving industry.
By taking this step, Long Stanton Manufacturing reinforces its legacy of innovation and adaptability, proving that even a company with nearly two centuries of history can continue to evolve and lead in the modern era.
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RESILIENCE EXPANDS AGAIN: NEW CAMPUS, 200 JOBS AND GROWING TO 1,000 EMPLOYEES
National Resilience, Inc. (Resilience), a technology-focused biomanufacturing company dedicated to broadening access to complex medicines, announced today the next phase of its growth in the Cincinnati region. The company is bolstering its presence in West Chester, Ohio, while also expanding operations in Blue Ash, Ohio. This expansion will create 200 new jobs and contribute $17.2 million in payroll to the local economy.
The planned expansion will bring Resilience’s Cincinnati workforce to nearly 1,100 employees, marking a significant milestone in its rapid growth since its inception just two years ago. This achievement is the result of continued collaboration with REDI Cincinnati and JobsOhio.
“We are excited to continue our successful partnership with JobsOhio and REDI Cincinnati, as we reach new milestones in expanding our capabilities and impact,” says William Marth, RPh., MBA, President and CEO of Resilience. “Since our inception, we’ve worked tirelessly to build a resilient future—and we’re excited to announce this recent growth, which enhances our drug product manufacturing capabilities in West Chester, Ohio.” We are deeply grateful for the ongoing collaboration and support of our amazing team, partners, and customers as we take this next step in our journey.”
Kimm Lauterbach, President and CEO of REDI Cincinnati, commented, “Resilience’s second expansion and its approach to 1,000 local jobs underscores why the Cincinnati region is a hub for leading life sciences organizations, including biotech, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. The life sciences sector contributes $6.8 billion to the region’s gross product (GRP) and employs over 20,000 people, highlighting its critical role in our region’s diverse economy.”
“The continued investment by Resilience cements West Chester as a powerhouse for advanced manufacturing and biomedical research,” said West Chester Township's Economic Development Manager Michelle Cone. “With over 3,500 businesses and a thriving healthcare and manufacturing sector, we’ve built a community that fuels innovation, growth, and opportunity. Resilience’s expansion is a big win—not just for West Chester, but for the entire region. We’re proud to support their mission and excited for the impact this will have locally and nationally.
Blue Ash also welcomes this expansion. “Blue Ash is thrilled to add Resilience to its robust portfolio of life sciences companies. We sincerely appreciate the work of REDI Cincinnati and JobsOhio that actively seeks to grow the bio health cluster in this region. It is a testament to our community and its leaders that Blue Ash remains prepared to support the fast-paced growth of an industry leader like Resilience.” Dan Johnson, Economic Development Director, Blue Ash.
Resilience previously announced 440 new jobs with an associated annual payroll of nearly $29 million in collaboration with REDI Cincinnati and JobsOhio, over a three-year period, in 2023. The new facility will mark a significant step in its ability to deliver top-tier contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) services to partners and customers in the pharma and biotechnology markets. While building a pipeline of local talent in the area, the new site will provide jobs in operations, quality, regulatory and manufacturing.
JobsOhio is planning to assist the project with Talent Acquisition Services to help Ditsch USA with its overall talent strategy. The services will be tailored to Resilience’s needs, including elements such as attraction, engagement, selection, and sourcing of candidates, as well as training.
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WEST CHESTER UPDATES ZONING RESOLUTION AND LAND USE PLAN
The West Chester Township Community Development team has been working diligently for the last few years on a major update to the community’s Zoning Resolution and Comprehensive Land Use Plan. West Chester originally adopted zoning in 1989, and the township has made many small updates in the years since.
The updated Zoning Resolution was reorganized to be more user-friendly, incorporating restructured tables and illustrations. Additionally, the design and development standards were aligned with the township’s land use plan, branding was refreshed, and the language was modernized. The updated resolution now clearly defines uses, making it searchable and including hyperlinks to direct customers to the exact information they need. The revised plan is much easier to navigate and is available online 24/7 to accommodate customers in every time zone.
As the township grows, the demand for different types of land use shifts, requiring zoning adjustments to accommodate new development patterns and the constantly changing environment. New industries and technologies have emerged, necessitating zoning updates to allow for their development. These changes impact transportation, infrastructure, land use, economic shifts, and changing demographics—prompting the township to adapt to evolving circumstances.
According to West Chester Community Development Director Katy Kanelopoulos, “A lot has changed since the Zoning Resolution was last updated in 2018. Issues that were not prevalent then, such as food trucks or Airbnb/VRBOs, have now become significant. The Zoning Resolution and Land Use Plan needed to be updated to reflect today’s activities.” Adjustments were made to business districts to account for their proximity to residential developments, considering factors such as lighting and traffic noise. The need to increase landscape buffers and green space between business and residential districts was also addressed. Additionally, the connectivity plan was updated, requiring new developments in specific areas to create paths and install sidewalks.
“The Zoning Resolution was also updated to address social changes,” added Property Advisor Bryan Hellard. He explained, “For example, some short-term rentals were creating safety issues, such as theft incidents that required police intervention. Recreational marijuana was defined in the resolution, however it is not permitted anywhere at this time.”
The Comprehensive Land Use Plan, which was also updated, serves as a high-level, long-term framework that guides community growth and change. It acts as a blueprint for staff and decision-makers to evaluate development proposals and achieve the community’s goals. Updates to the Land Use Plan include aligning the vision, terminology, and goals with the zoning resolution to modernize the plan. The Township’s first Comprehensive Land Use Plan was adopted in 2004, with revisions in 2009, 2010, and 2013.
“These updates ensure that our community remains vibrant and adaptable as it grows. We are committed to creating a balanced, well-planned environment that considers both the evolving needs of businesses and the well-being of our residents. By modernizing our Zoning and Land Use Plans, we are setting a strong foundation for sustainable development in West Chester for years to come,” said Township Planner, Tim Dawson.
The Property Maintenance Code, a set of regulations that establish minimum standards for the upkeep, safety, and habitability of buildings and structures, has also been updated. The Property Maintenance Code establishes minimum requirements and standards for premises, structures, equipment, and facilities regarding light, ventilation, space, heating, sanitation, protection from the elements, life safety, and sanitary conditions. This code plays a crucial role in keeping West Chester a safe and pleasant place to live and work, while also maintaining property values.
The Community Development Department is available to discuss the updated documents and provide insight into the changes that have been made. For more information, contact Community Development Director Katy Kanelopoulos at (513) 777-4214 or kkanelopoulos@westchesteroh.org.
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COMMUNITY ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICTS (CEDs) in WEST CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Community Entertainment Districts (CEDs) are designated areas within West Chester Township that offer a mix of entertainment, retail, cultural, social, educational, and arts establishments. These districts are designed to bring together a variety of venues, such as hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, museums, performing arts theaters, sports facilities, and more, to create vibrant, connected spaces for residents and visitors alike.
Benefits of CEDs: The creation of CEDs offers significant opportunities for economic development and growth in West Chester Township. By providing easier access to liquor permits within specific districts, the township supports the expansion of dining, entertainment, and tourism-related businesses. These districts help foster a lively and diverse community, benefiting both businesses and residents.
CEDs in West Chester Township:
- Voice of America
- Towne Centre
- Union Centre Princeton Glendale
- Streets of West Chester
Background: State law limits the number of liquor permits issued within a jurisdiction based on population size. The most common type of liquor permit for full-service restaurants is the D-5 permit, which allows establishments to serve beer, wine, and mixed drinks. As the availability of these permits becomes limited, it can hinder the establishment of new restaurants. To address this, the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) can establish CEDs to create a new, geographically limited allocation of liquor permits similar to the D-5 permit. This strategy promotes economic growth by offering businesses in these districts access to permits that help them thrive.
Key Points to Know:
- The CED designation creates a new pool of liquor permits specifically within the district, allowing full-service restaurants to apply for permits comparable to the D-5 permit.
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Liquor permits within the CED are issued by the Ohio Division of Liquor Control. Click for more information on the application process.
- The CED designation does not exempt establishments from other state requirements and operational controls governing liquor-serving businesses.
- The new D-5j permits allocated through the CED do not impact the normal, city-wide D-5 permit allocation. These permits are unique to the CED and will remain within the district.
- CEDs are not associated with open container laws and should not be confused with Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas (DORAs), which have separate legal guidelines.
- Existing restaurants with traditional D-5 permits in a CED can choose to sell their permits and replace them with the lower-cost D-5j permits provided by the CED.
| | | | Congratulations to West Chester Businesses Celebrating Anniversaries! | | |
SPRING IS IN THE AIR IN WEST CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Spring is in the air and it is a great time to take a look at the outside of our properties and make sure that we are keeping up its maintenance. West Chester Township has a property maintenance code which establishes minimum requirements and standards to help keep our properties and neighborhoods looking nice as well as keeping property values up.
Some of the biggest complaints that the Community Development Department receives are simple things that maybe folks don’t know about or may just need a friendly reminder. So here is your friendly reminder!
Tall grass and weeds – Grass and weeds can be no higher than 10 inches.
Recreational vehicles – Defined as recreational vehicles and trailers, boats, camping equipment, and utility trailer storage. Recreational vehicles are permitted in the front yard for a period not to exceed 48 hours in any 30-day period for purposes of loading, unloading and accommodating visitors.
Accumulation of rubbish or garbage – Junk and/or discarded furniture cannot be stored outside of an enclosed structure for more than 10 days.
Junk vehicles - All vehicles must be licensed and operable--this includes no flat tires.
Commercial vehicles - No commercial vehicles may be parked in residential districts with the exception of deliveries to that property.
This is just a brief summary of the property maintenance code violations that seem to be among the biggest complaints. If you need further clarification, the Community Development team is always happy to help. Feel free to direct any questions or concerns to one of the Township's Property Advisers at 513-777-4214 or you can now file complaints online at the following link to the Property Maintenance Complaint Form.
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MEMO FROM MICHELLE'S DESK
West Chester isn’t just a place to do business—it’s where people show up with big ideas, smart solutions, and the occasional impromptu debate over whether we need more coffee shops (we probably do). As Economic Development Manager, I’ve had the privilege of hearing incredible stories—bold business owners, visionary community leaders, and residents who can spot a zoning violation faster than I can find my car keys.
Everyone here is friendly, welcoming, and fiercely dedicated to making this community thrive, which makes my job not only rewarding but a lot of fun. I can’t wait to share my adventures in economic development with you. So, if you have a challenge, a dream, or even just strong opinions on where to get the best pizza, let’s talk. You can always reach me at michellecone@westchesteroh.org.
Behind the Scenes at Oats Overnight
When REDI Cincinnati invited me to tour Oats Overnight, I thought, “Great! Economic development in action.” What I didn’t anticipate was the awkward experience of putting on a hairnet in front of respected professionals. To make matters worse, I wore heels to a manufacturing tour. Because what better way to exude professionalism than teetering between giant industrial mixers filled with oats, hoping not to end up face-first in someone’s breakfast?
Despite my fashion miscalculations, I was thoroughly impressed. Oats Overnight’s expansion is a prime example of West Chester’s economic development strategy at work—leveraging partnerships with JobsOhio, Butler Tech, and Miami University Regionals to strengthen workforce pipelines.
And while I love my job for its big-picture impact, I also love it because of free samples. Business growth is important, but so is finding a new favorite flavor of Oats Overnight.
Business Growth & Investment
West Chester Township continues to experience strong economic momentum, with sustained business growth and expansion. Over the past quarter:
- 9 new businesses have established operations, adding diversity to our commercial landscape.
- 6 businesses have expanded, showing confidence in our market.
- 7 grand openings & milestones affirming our status as a thriving business hub.
Infrastructure & Community Development
New Splash Pad at Beckett Park
Set to open in Spring 2025, Beckett Park’s newest attraction will feature interactive water elements, climbing structures, spray arches, and shaded seating—offering a family-friendly space for recreation and engagement.
Modernization of The Square at Union Centre
A revitalization project will transform The Square at Union Centre into a more dynamic public space, with construction starting in July 2025 and completion set before the 2026 event season. Enhancements include:
- A covered stage for better acoustics and fewer weather disruptions.
- Expanded green spaces and seating for larger crowds and flexible event programming.
- Interactive splash pads, replacing fountains for more engagement.
- Upgraded lighting at the iconic clock tower to enhance visual appeal.
Community & Culture: Activating Public Spaces
Upcoming Events
West Chester is a great place to live, work, and gather—but that doesn’t mean we’re going to sit back and coast. Whether you’re launching a business, expanding your empire, or just here for the concerts and the surprisingly competitive lawn chair setups, you’re what makes this community special. Thank you for being part of it. We’re grateful for you, and we can’t wait to see what we will accomplish together.
| | West Chester: Built With You in Mind | West Chester is a proven destination for corporate investment displayed by the expansive growth over the past two decades, yet development opportunities still exist throughout the township with commercial sites of 1 to 60 acres still available. Office, manufacturing, research and properties with accessible infrastructure, frontage on I-75 or within two miles of an interstate interchanges are available. Contact Michelle Cone at (513) 759-7226 or mcone@westchesteroh.org for personalized assistance. | | | | | Corghi USA, an Italian-based world leader in the mobility tire service segment and customizable tire service equipment sector, began a 10,800 square-foot expansion to its existing U.S. headquarters at 6067 Schumacher Park Drive in Schumacher Commerce Park. The Corghi USA headquarters features a showroom highlighting its vehicle assistance equipment and offers a state-of-the-art seminar facility. The company developed its mechanical abilities over a wide sector—TV voltage stabilizers, agricultural machinery, household appliances and mechano-textile equipment. More than 70 years ago, the Corghi brothers invested and patented the world’s first tire changer and still lead the market today. | | | | Recycling Alliance, providing efficient and cost-effective recycling services, opened a 57,921 square-foot facility at 4331 Dues Drive. At Recycling Alliance, all processed materials are shredded securely and a certificate of destruction can be provided for any job. With more than 30 years of experience in the recycling industry, the professional management team at Recycling Alliance are committed to being leaders in recycling and the community it serves. | | | | Cintas Corporation, a national leader in work apparel, facility services, first aid, safety, and fire protection, will open a 14,948 square-foot facility at 8816 Beckett Road in West Chester Commerce Center. Cintas specializes in work wear built with features that underscore the importance of the job including flame resistant clothing, industry leading products, comprehensive first aid and safety products and services. In addition, Cintas offers comprehensive services including thorough fire inspections that keep equipment ready, also restrooms and hygiene solutions. Cintas Corporation helps more than one million businesses of all types and sizes by providing products and services that keep customer’s facilities and employees clean, safe and looking their best. Cintas has made the Forbes list of America’s Best Large Employers three consecutive years. | | | | Custom Traffic Solutions (CTS), specializing in traffic control services for a variety of industries, relocated its corporate headquarters to a 10,200 square-foot facility at 9984 Commerce Park Drive. Custom Traffic Solutions is a family-owned company in business since 2013. Safety is the priority at CTS and the company is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of clients, motorists, and employees by creating compliant work zones that adhere to federal, state and local regulations. The 24/7 services at CTS are backed by extensively trained crews in areas such as OSHA certification, defensive driving, CPR and more. CTS is committed to fostering a supportive work environment, enabling its team to deliver outstanding service while maintaining high safety standards and professional integrity. | | | | |
E-Town Marketing & Distributing, a family-owned and operated wholesale distribution company, will open a 24,000 square-foot facility at 9936 Princeton Glendale Road/SR 747. Since opening in 2016, E-Town Marketing and Distributing believes business is built on trust, so it focuses on providing quality service and building lasting relationships. E-Town Marketing & Distributing takes pride in offering high-quality products to convenience stores, liquor stores, vape shops and more. The knowledgeable staff at E-Town Marketing & Distributing are happy to meet clients to explore its extensive range of products and discover the perfect items that enhance its customer’s inventory and drive sales.
| | OFFICE / MEDICAL / TECHNOLOGY PROJECTS | | | | Lampe Law Office, a trusted resource for complex litigation matters throughout Ohio, began a nearly 3,000 square-foot Class A office expansion to its existing facility at 9277 Centre Pointe Drive in Centre Pointe Office Park. The team at Lampe Law office are recognized leaders in family and probate law. At the Lampe Law Office, the Ohio family law litigators are renowned for both its successes in the courtroom and the close working relationships that they develop with their clients. No matter how intricate and nuanced a legal matter may be, Lampe Law family attorneys take the time to provide its clients with the trusted advance and thoughtful answer they need when navigating through the legal system. | | | | Roetzel & Andress, a national, full-service law firm, leased a 4,038 square-foot Class A office space at 9050 Centre Pointe Drive in Centre Pointe Office Park. Since its founding in 1876, Roetzel & Andress has provided comprehensive legal services to publicly traded and privately held companies, financial services participants, professional and governmental organizations, as well as private investors, industry executives and individuals. Roetzel & Andress takes great pride in working for its clients both big and small—from Fortune 500 companies and family-run businesses to nonprofit organizations and governmental entities. As a full-service law firm, its 200+ attorneys collaborate seamlessly across disciplines throughout its 15 offices to achieve its client’s objectives. | | | | 3dB Labs, creating innovative engineering solutions across a variety of industries with products designed to provide efficient and sustainable solutions, began a 5,411 square-foot Class A office expansion at its existing West Chester facility at 9050 Centre Pointe Drive in Centre Pointe Office Park. 3dB Labs designs, implements and delivers solutions in engineering, signal processing, signal analysis, software development, hardware manufacturing and development, using dynamic and multidisciplinary approaches. 3dB Labs was founded in 2004 by three engineers driven by the same desire—to maintain the highest quality customer relationships by consistently exceeding established expectations and never sacrificing quality for profit. | | | | Wawa, offering freshly prepared foods, beverages, coffee, and fuel services, will construct a new 6,372 square-foot convenience store with 7,150 square-foot fueling canopy at 7220 Veterans Boulevard across from the Voice of America MetroPark in West Chester. Founded in 1902, Wawa has been working hard to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves. Wawa offers built-to-order customized fresh hoagies and sandwiches, handcrafted beverages, breakfast bowls, oven-fresh pizza, burgers, fries and more. Wawa is a privately-held, family-owned company with more than 200 years in American business. | | | | United Dairy Farmers (UDF), a family-founded dairy committed to making quality ice cream and related products, will construct a new 6,308 square-foot convenience store at 9100 Cincinnati Dayton Road at West Chester Road in place of its existing location. The new store will continue to offer hand-dipped cones, sundaes, milk shakes and malts with an expanded ice cream fountain and sit-down area on the “Dipside.” The updated UDF will also offer multiple varieties of hot foods on its “Ovenside” that can be made-to-order and cooked on demand. In addition, there will be a 5,844 square-foot self-service fuel canopy area for gasoline customers. Founded in 1940, UDF is still family owned with nearly 200 ice cream parlors and convenience stores in three states. | | | | Safelite Auto Glass, specializing in auto glass repair and replacement services, will open a 4,924 square-foot facility at 5900 Muhlhauser Road near Union Centre Boulevard. Safelite was founded at a single location more than 70 years ago and has grown to become the largest auto glass specialist company in the U.S. with more than 850 locations nationwide. From front and rear windshields to side glass, Safelite is proud to serve 6.2 million customers every year. Safelite’s proprietary TrueSeal system guides the new windshield into precise position to ensure the most reliable seal for most vehicles. The technicians at Safelite all complete extensive classroom and hands-on training in its SafeTech certification program. | | | | Willis Music, a trusted resource for anything musical, will relocate its existing West Chester store to a 9,869 square-foot facility at 9482 Meridian Way in World Park at Union Centre. Beginning in 1899 through today, Willis Music’s focus has always been on music education. From its internationally known educational piano catalog to one of the top retail music chains in America, Willis Music sells all types of musical instruments, accessories and print music at all its stores. Willis Music also offers full repair services for any instrument. Willis Music calls on hundreds of schools weekly supporting band and orchestra programs, their students and families. Willis Music also provides a variety of music lessons in all its locations, ranging from band, percussion and piano. | | | | HotWorx, a 24-hour infrared fitness studio, opened a 1,338 square-foot facility at 8204 Princeton Glendale Road/SR 747 in Beckett Commons. HotWorx offers members unlimited, 24-hour access to a variety of virtually instructed, infrared sauna workouts. HotWorx members achieve their fitness goals with 3D training—its powerful combination of heat, infrared energy and exercise. The FX Zone (Functional Exercise Zone) provides HotWorx members with an area for productive use of time before, after, or in between infrared workout sessions. Bands, weights, ropes, and other equipment are available for any combination of functional training exercises and routines. | | | | Baladna Butchery & Market, specializing in fresh varieties of Halah meat and Middle Eastern grocery items, opened a 2,423 square-foot store at 9536 Cincinnati Columbus Road/SR 42 in Dimmick Plaza. Baladna Butchery & Market offers a wide range of Arabic, Halal and Islamic groceries, meats and other products. Baladna Butchery & Market is committed to providing fresh meat, vegetables, fruits and other products to its community with new supplies delivered weekly. | | | | Punjabi Junction, specializing in authentic Indian cuisine, will open a 2,374 square-foot restaurant at 4970 Union Centre Pavilion Drive. The mission at Punjabi Junction is to bring the rich culinary heritage of Punjab to the community by offering authentic, flavorful, and high-quality dishes that reflect the traditions of Indian cooking. Punjabi Junction is committed to using organic produce, locally-sourced vegetables, and high-quality spices to ensure the authentic taste of Punjab in every bite. The chefs at Punjabi Junction are committed to creating delicious meals to provide a healthier and tastier dining experience with quality and integrity in every dish. | | | | The West Chester Development Council is a non-profit corporation, representing a public/private partnership between West Chester Township and the private business sector established to promote economic development initiatives. The following organizations have chosen to support the economic development and marketing efforts of West Chester Township and the West Chester Development Council. West Chester Development | | | | |
