November 1 Issue - Newspaper - Page 13
Page 13
EDITION 10
May 13 2025
County paves way for development
at Washington Mall site
The Washington County
Commissioners are
thrilled after an
eleven-year closure of the
blighted Washington Mall
in South Strabane
Township.
The project will begin
with the mall's demolition
in late spring or summer.
This initiative is
supported by a county
investment from the
newly established Blight
Mitigation and
Demolition Fund. This
fund is supported by
Federal appropriation
An interior picture of the
Washington Mall shows it is
beyond repair.
from the American
Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
The county's strategic
decision to demolish the
existing structure has led
to viable economic
opportunities that will
now repurpose the site
with new infrastructure.
Commissioner Nick
Sherman states,
"Eliminating blight is
essential to sustaining
healthy communities,
fostering economic
development, and
improving the quality of
life in Washington
County. Blighted
buildings drain municipal
resources, inhibit
economic growth, and
create negative
perceptions of our
communities."
Commissioner Electra
Janis added, "Revitalizing
and redeveloping this
property will create new
opportunities for
residents, businesses,
South Strabane
Township, and
Washington. Our blight
program is a key
component of a broader
economic development
initiative that remains a
top priority for our
administration."
"This strategic project is
exactly what is needed to
improve and accelerate
our county-wide efforts to
tackle blight," said Bob
Griffin, Executive
Director of RACW. "We
commend the
Commissioners for their
investment in this
important project and for
finally bringing this
long-overdue plan to
fruition. Given its prime
location, this large-scale
redevelopment will have
a positive economic
impact throughout the
county."
“Too often, old,
abandoned properties like
the mall prevent new
businesses from entering
our community. Blighted
properties discourage
development and
decrease job
opportunities. These
abandoned properties
lead to economic decline
and decrease the quality
of life for residents. If we
can demolish buildings
like these, we can open
doors to new
opportunities," stated
Janis.
Most of the mall will be
demolished to make way
for new retail
opportunities. However,
the former Toys "R" Us
and Giant Eagle sites will
undergo renovations, and
a new recreational vehicle
dealership and service
center, Campers Inn RV,
will be established there.
This award-winning and
respected brand operates
36 locations across the
country.
"The recent
announcement of Costco
as the anchor tenant of a
new development has
ended much speculation
and sparked excitement in
the county and beyond,"
stated Commissioner
Nick Sherman.
The development is
expected to generate local
tax revenue for both
South Strabane Township
and the Trinity Area
School District, as well as
create new jobs.
Additionally, this project
is anticipated to attract
more businesses, spur
further job creation, and
promote a thriving
commercial hub in both
South Strabane and the
city of Washington.
Commissioner Nick
Sherman recognized the
sense of nostalgia
associated with the
Washington Mall, stating:
"While many residents
have fond memories of
the mall dating back to
1968, we are now looking
ahead to a vibrant,
mixed-use retail
destination that will
attract shoppers from
across the county and
beyond. As demolition
begins this spring, we are
proud to have secured
Costco and Campers Inn
RV and are working
closely with experienced
developers to bring
additional businesses to
the site. We are excited
about the potential for
growth and renewal that
this redevelopment will
bring to Washington
County."
The Washington Mall is set to be demolished for development.
Costco to replace blighted
Washington
Mall
Big-box store to bring jobs,
and boost development
and local economy
The announcement that
our community will be
the site of a new Costco
location at the
Washington Mall has
generated widespread
excitement and optimism.
This development is not
only a win for local
shoppers but also a
significant boost for the
local economy, job
market, and overall
quality of life in our area.
Costco’s reputation for
offering high-quality
products at competitive
prices makes it a highly
anticipated addition to
our community.
phase and once the store
is operational. These jobs
will provide valuable
employment
opportunities for local
residents, from
entry-level positions to
managerial roles.
“This project will bring
family-sustaining jobs to
the county. Costco leads
the retail sector in
employee compensation,
with wages exceeding
$30 for most store
employees,” added
Commissioner Electra
Janis.
remarkable savings on
everyday essentials.
Importantly, they also
support local suppliers,"
Commissioner Janis
remarked.
The presence of a major
retailer like Costco is
likely to attract other
businesses to the area,
fostering even more
economic growth and
development.
Restaurants, service
providers, and smaller
retail stores may spring
up nearby, creating a
vibrant commercial hub.
The new Costco will also
boost the local tax base,
generating additional
revenue that can be
invested in community
services, infrastructure,
and the Trinity Area
School District. This
influx of resources will
benefit everyone,
improving the overall
quality of life.
Costco to be located in South Strabane
Although it may be a few
years before we enjoy
member deals, unique
items, and filling up our
gas tanks, the anticipation
is already building.
“Bringing a Costco here
clearly signals our
economic development
and growth in
Washington County. It’s a
multinational company
known for strategically
locating its stores in
viable areas. Landing a
Costco is the Super Bowl
of retail,” said
Commissioner Nick
Sherman.
The economic impact of
this new location cannot
be overstated. Costco is
known for creating
hundreds of jobs, both
during the construction
For residents, the arrival
of Costco means greater
convenience and access
to a wide range of goods,
from groceries and
household essentials to
electronics and seasonal
items.
"Many of us have made
the journey to
neighboring towns like
Robinson Township just
to shop at Costco. Having
a location right in our
community will not only
save us precious time but
also a considerable
amount of money.
Moreover, Costco's
dedication to bulk
purchasing aligns
beautifully with the needs
of local families and
businesses, offering
Costco states a
commitment to
sustainability and
community engagement.
The company’s initiatives
to reduce waste and give
back to the community
through charitable
donations will further
benefit the county.
“The selection of our
community as a Costco
location is a
transformative
opportunity. It brings
convenience, economic
growth, and a sense of
pride to our area. As we
look forward to the
store’s opening, we can
take pride in knowing
that our community is
growing and thriving,
thanks to this exciting
new addition,” Sherman
stated.
