Columbus, Ohio – The Opera Block in downtown Bellefontaine, Ohio, will receive a $2.17 million redevelopment led by Small Nation, aided by a JobsOhio Vibrant Community Grant. The project will turn the 17,850 square feet area into a mixed-use space, including co-working, retail, office space, and more.

The project is being backed by local and regional partners, including OneColumbus, and continues Small Nation’s efforts to revitalize downtown Bellefontaine.

“This is a transformative project for Bellefontaine and an important example of how historic preservation and rural development can go hand in hand,” said Jason Duff, founder of Small Nation. “The Opera Block will serve not only our community, but also small towns across Ohio looking to reimagine their own futures.”

The second and third floors of the buildings will be home to the Rural Development Education Center (RDEC), while the first floor will be for retail and food/beverage tenants. Small Nation will occupy more than 9,900 square feet and lead the development of the RDEC and related services.

“Ohio is proud to contribute to the restoration of Bellefontaine’s historic Opera Block,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “The ongoing revitalization of this area is focused on honoring and preserving this region’s rich history while simultaneously creating a modern environment for economic development opportunities.”

JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef said revitalizing the historic districts is essential to the long-term health of Ohio’s small towns.

“The Bellefontaine Opera Block project will preserve an important piece of the community’s history while serving as a launchpad for future growth,” Nauseef said.

To learn more about the redevelopment project, view the full press release HERE.