From staff reports
The Venango Area Chamber of Commerce is moving to new location.
The move has been under consideration for the last few years and will clear the way for development of the tract of land where the Chamber offices are located at 41 Main St. in Oil City on Route 8, said Susan Williams, the Chamber executive director.
“This has been a great location for the Chamber since 1997 and has provided high visibility for the organization and convenience for our members, the community and visitors,” Williams said in a press release issued late Friday.
The Chamber’s new temporary location will be at 24 Seneca St. in Oil City, effective June 1.
The Chamber rented its offices from Jack Roser, the owner of Oil City Automotive and (RPM) Roser’s Premium Motorcars.
Oil City Automotive relocated to the adjacent property in 2016 and is in a new state-of-the-art building.
“I recognize the historical relevance and memories these buildings hold for the community,” Roser said in the release.
While the specific date for demolition and future development at the site hasn’t been confirmed, the Chamber said this is a significant opportunity for the region.
“A great deal of development is in progress and we see this as another opportunity to help foster growth in our region,” Williams said. “With the large investment being made by the state and the county in Oil City, this is yet another step in the right direction toward progress in our county.”
Williams also said “Jack (Roser) has been a true friend of the Chamber and has worked closely with us to assure a smooth transition.”
“We anticipate being operational in the new location before the Oil Heritage Festival, but we will have time to carefully evaluate what will be moved during the transition and what may be stored,” Williams said.
