Gazebo on Corbet Street in Tarentum potential focal point of business district

Tarentum’s business corridor is expected to gain a focal point in the form of a gazebo later this year.

If approved, the 24-by-24-foot open-stage gazebo would be built at 215 Corbet St., where a three-story building was demolished earlier this year.

Council is scheduled to vote on the project during its meeting Tuesday.

The cost is expected to be $35,000 to $40,000. Money was put into the budget last year when demolition of the Corbet Street convenience store originally was scheduled.

“At the time, council had thought of making the property into a parklet, and we would’ve had to pave it and install ramps,” Manager Dwight Boddorf said. “The money is all set aside and ready.”

Boddorf said $75,000 was budgeted, about half of which was paid to Ron Gillette Inc. in Harrison to raze the building in March.

Council will discuss options for the design of the gazebo at next week’s meeting. Preliminary ideas include an octagon-shaped, open-air space that will take up most of the lot.

Boddorf said council will decide what design makes the most sense for the location.

Councilwoman Carrie Fox said she favors an elevated, open design.

“If it’s street-level, we won’t be able to see the performers,” she said.

The stage will be wired for electricity so it can be used for light-up night, parades and other community- oriented events.

Security cameras will be installed.

“The intention is to get it in this year,” Boddorf said.

He cited potential revitalization at the opposite end of Corbet Street, where council is considering improvements that would impact an empty lot between the old Grant Building and the former Isaly’s.

Ideas include a parking lot or social space for town markets.

“In three to five years when the (recreational) trail comes through, there will be a nice section of town that is redeveloped,” Boddorf said.