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East Palestine, Ohio Marks 1st Anniversary of Derailment with Progress Update and New Brand

In a testament to pride, tradition, and progress, the Village of East Palestine will announce a progress update video and new brand campaign to show the significant clean-up and revitalization efforts following the unfortunate train derailment that occurred nearly one year ago. Through these efforts and impassioned community engagement, the village is emerging stronger, more united, and more resilient than ever.

The progress update video will be launched on the morning of February 2, 2024, on a new website dedicated to positive progress. The videos are voiced by residents from the Village of East Palestine and will acknowledge the anniversary, provide an update on the positive changes, and look forward to the future. 

The new brand gives the Village of East Palestine an opportunity for a fresh start now that the environmental clean-up is largely done, and the focus is moving to economic recovery.  The new brand pays homage to the town’s history and traditions while setting the stage for its growth and redevelopment initiatives. In addition to the new website, other branding initiatives include a new logo featuring some of the village’s most recognizable buildings, and the tagline, Pride. Tradition. Progress. 

Chad Edwards, Village Manager, shares the idea of the new tagline, “Pride. Tradition. Progress.” represents the community’s strength and resilience, rich heritage and strong roots, and aspirations for creating a better future.” 

Another step that the Village took on the road to economic recovery was the creation of a Community Improvement Corporation (CIC), a non-profit corporation authorized under the Ohio Revised Code, which will serve as the agent of the Village in executing many steps in an economic development plan. The plans will include elements of downtown revitalization, small business support, and strategies for retaining, expanding, and attracting businesses.

Residents of East Palestine have voiced that they still want to live, work, go to school, and enjoy their time in the village. The cost of living is low, and the crime rate is even lower. The schools are a source of community pride, and the village park is an exceptional asset that will continue to grow.

Edwards continues, “East Palestine residents care too much about this town to give up, so they are rolling up their sleeves to make it better.”

To this point, one of the main pillars of the Village of East Palestine’s revitalization strategy is community engagement. Through positive community actions and voices, the village is working to foster a renewed sense of pride and unity among its residents. Local entrepreneurs and residents are playing a pivotal role in giving back to the community and shaping the village’s identity, contributing to a strong, resilient culture that is palpable throughout the town. The village extends its heartfelt gratitude to the residents, businesses, and partners who have committed to making the derailment an inflection point and working together to make the Village of East Palestine a more vibrant community than it was in the past.

To keep residents and the wider public informed, in addition to the user-friendly website, the Village of East Palestine has activated new Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn pages and a monthly printed newsletter that will be mailed to residents and business owners in East Palestine. Positive stories of success and progress have been shared through various media outlets, and collaborations with influencers like JT Miller, Mike McGee, and Annika Sorenstam are bringing East Palestine’s transformation to a global audience.

About the Village of East Palestine

Founded in 1875, the Village of East Palestine is a close-knit community known for its rich history, friendly atmosphere, and commitment to progress. With a population of just under 5,000 residents, the Village of East Palestine offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences, making it an ideal place to live, work, and visit. 

Media Contact

Olivia Huntley | ohuntley@wrladv.com | 330-493-8866
Director of Digital Communications
WRL Advertising