Every Home Reflects the Neighborhood’s Character
The Jamestown Renaissance Corporation (JRC) launched the Renaissance Block Challenge (RBC) to motivate property owners to invest in their homes, fostering stronger, more vibrant neighborhoods.
Initially offered citywide from 2011 to 2018, the RBC program was refined in 2017 to focus on specific target areas with a longer timeframe. This approach emphasized key success factors: maintaining a focused strategy, allowing time for lasting change, achieving visible results, taking decisive action, and collaborating closely with multiple partners. These guiding principles continue to shape the program’s ongoing success.
Northside Target Area #2 (NSTA#2) | 2025–2026
Northside Area Details & Application
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Northside Target Area #1 (NSTA#1) | 2023–2024
Located on Jamestown’s Northside, the Northside Target Area was the second neighborhood selected for the JRC’s targeted revitalization approach.
This area was predominantly owner-occupied, with home prices affordable for median-wage earners. It has shown encouraging signs of recent investment, alongside opportunities for continued improvement.
Total Properties
%
Participation Rate in the RBC Program
Invested in Exterior Enhancements
Reimbursed to Property Owners via Small Matching Grants
Allen Park/UPMC | 2019–2023
Located on Jamestown’s Southside, the Allen Park/UPMC neighborhood was the ideal starting point for the JRC’s targeted area initiative. With 79% owner occupancy, home prices accessible to median wage earners, clear signs of reinvestment, and a strong neighborhood character, the area demonstrated great potential for revitalization.
Originally planned as a three-year effort, the project was extended to five years (2019–2023) due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the project, meaningful progress was made and new community connections were fostered.
Figures & Progress
RBC 2.0 focused on 259 properties in the Allen Park/UPMC neighborhood. Of the 132 properties enrolled, 67% of approved projects had begun or were completed. Over half of all neighborhood properties participated in the program.
As of December 2023, $499,935 was invested in the area, including $163,420 (32.68%) contributed by the JRC.
Total Properties
%
Participation Rate in the RBC Program
Invested in Exterior Enhancements
Reimbursed to Property Owners via Small Matching Grants
Past Projects
The JRC’s neighborhood initiatives focus on the power of collective reinvestment and fostering connections among neighbors. From 2011 to 2018, the Renaissance Block Challenge (RBC) was offered citywide.
During this eight-year period, 45 clusters of property owners earned ‘Renaissance Block’ status, collectively investing over $1.3 million in exterior curb appeal enhancements and repairs.
Neighborhood Clusters
Participating Homeowners & Landlords
Invested in Exterior Enhancements
Reimbursed to Property Owners via Small Matching Grants
Sponsors
The Renaissance Block Challenge is made possible through the generous support of:
John A. & Oscar Johnson Memorial Trust
The Lenna Foundation
With additional support from:
Chautauqua Region Community Foundation
The Ralph C. Sheldon Foundation
And with assistance from these valued local businesses:
All Weather Seamless Gutter
B & L Wholesale Supply
Bella Glass Blocks
Busty’s Landscaping & Exterior Home Services
Chautauqua Brick
Complete Roofing Systems
Dorler Landscape Designs
Everyday’s True Value
Husky Enterprises
Jamestown Awning & Party Tents
Mike’s Nursery
Plyler Entry Systems
Premier Job Services
Pro Hardware
Stone & Outdoor Living Center
Troyer’s Greenhouse
Warren Fence Co.