Franciscan Square development to continue

STEUBENVILLE -- The next phase of development at Franciscan Square is to begin later this year following a multi-phase agreement between Fraspada Company Limited and Cedar One Realty with Franciscan University of Steubenville.

"So, phase two is the next the next phase of Franciscans Square. We're going to add two new buildings to the property that will really help develop the entrance to the square as a whole," Franco Carapellotti with Fraspada Development said.

The news came during a press conference Monday afternoon.

This next phase of Franciscan Square development is expected to complement the existing restaurants and office spaces that have been operating at the site since 2018.

When complete, the mixed-use development will add 12,000 to 16,000 square feet of professional space, 14,000 square feet of retail and dining space and 16 to 24 private residences.

"When you come in (via the Franciscan Square entrance), you're going to be greeted by a three-story building with office space. And then on the right is where we will have the retail components," Carapellotti said. "It's mixed with the residential, so we're hoping to have anywhere from 16 to 24 apartments. We're really excited about that and kind of providing something new for the area."

The synergy of ideas and the working relationship with Fraspada Development and Cedar One is something that will continue to pay dividends, according to the Rev. Dave Pivonka, TOR, president of the university.

"When our parents (the parents of university students) come to Steubenville and the first thing they see is the Franciscan Square and the development that's taking place in collaboration between us and Franco's family, it's a wonderful welcome to the local community," Pivonka said.

"So, the more that we can work with the local community -- and I think this is a prime example -- and of us working with the Carapellotti family, this has been a great blessing. I mean, we've seen the success of phase one. We'd like to see more of that," Pivonka said.

Joe Luckino, Cedar One Realty owner and broker, is also excited about the possibilities.

"It's progress for the college. It's progress for the city, and it's progress for economic development," Luckino said. "You know, it's bringing a lot together, and it's a connection with the locals here up to the campus as well."

The investment in the new development is to build on the success of the initial phase which brought more than 100 jobs to Franciscan Square. This next phase will provide more new job opportunities in multiple sectors as it attracts new businesses to the area and provides a welcoming environment for guests who visit our community, according to those involved.

"We're thriving. We're hungry for progress and advancement," Luckino said.

Groundbreaking will begin sometime this year, and the second phase of Franciscan Square is slated to open in the winter of next year.

"This will help establish Franciscan Square as the one of the premiere destinations in the Ohio Valley," Carapellotti said.

Those interested in space availability and leasing rates can contact Luckino at Cedar One at (740) 264-7131.