Chester’s Rising: Ward Finds Home and Opportunities in Chester

L Ward

L Ward exudes a sense of pride and community as he walks the Avenue of the States in Chester. 

"This is my home," he says, "a safe haven where everyone knows each other."

It’s also a place to do business. Ward is one of an increasing number of small businesses who are helping to revitalize Chester’s downtown business district.

Ward owns Butcher Shop Rehab, a design store, and runs Crashboys International, a bike club that is now a creative studio and lifestyle brand. He also owns Indigo Mills, a giant warehouse that's home to all kinds of artists and makers.

A New York native who has been a longtime resident, urban developer, and property owner, Ward wants Chester to reclaim its identity and purpose. A robust community with thriving businesses that attract people from all over.

"Anyone who comes to Chester and gives it a chance will end up falling in love with it," Ward says, recounting stories of how outsiders who he brings to town become excited by the city's potential, drawn in by tight-knit community-hosted events and the tangible sense of progress around them.

“You know, it's been really successful living here. I live there in that space,” Ward says as he points down the Avenue of the States. “My whole family feels very comfortable here. Coming from New York we feel this is our safe haven.”

People outside of Chester too often have preconceived notions about the city and its people. But now through a series of efforts, residents, business owners and municipalities are getting an opportunity to change the narrative.

Among the efforts, is a façade initiative aimed at enhancing the aesthetic appeal of Chester’s 400-500 blocks of the Central Business District. The initiative using funding from ARPA to restore building exteriors, improve signage, and ensure cohesive design elements, contributing to a more vibrant and inviting urban environment.

Grants will cover eligible expenses as needed to transform the façade, up to a maximum of $50,000 per property. Each property participating in the program will first undergo an assessment of its exterior. Based on the assessment, improvement projects will be allocated to each property, ensuring that grant awards are custom-tailored to address the unique needs and challenges of every building.

Grantees will be notified within five business days following the conclusion of the review period with construction slated to begin in 2025 and completed by late 2026. This initiative aligns with the City of Chester’s Recast Boost Report to enable local ownership and investment in the downtown core. This program is also consistent with the City’s Economic Competitiveness Plan and is another step to furthering the goals of community revitalization and economic development.

“This is a pivotal step in our broader vision to transform Chester into a prosperous city that celebrates its history while embracing a future filled with excitement,” said Mayor Stefan Roots

Michael Doweary, Receiver for the City of Chester, echoed similar thoughts to Mayor Roots.

“The Façade Initiative represents the efforts on the City of Chester to return to prosperity and empowering business owners to enrich their properties,” he said.

Challenges remain, but on a recent visit, Ward painted a picture of a thriving and safe environment with ready to bounce back. 

“It's not going to happen overnight," he says. “But we're making progress, one step at a time."

Chester’s Rising is a series of stories about the Chester business community