Barberton Community Foundation Launches Major Downtown Investment Through Barberton Is Back Grant Program
A $125,000 matching grant will support the redevelopment of the Tracy Building, one of downtown Barberton’s most historic landmarks.
May 5, 2026
Barberton, Ohio – Barberton Community Foundation Board of Directors unanimously approved a $125,000 matching grant to Alexander Commons Development LLC through the Barberton Is Back Grant Program. The investment will support the redevelopment of the Tracy Building, also known as Alexander Commons, at 554–560 West Tuscarawas Avenue. Recognized as the oldest brick building in downtown Barberton, the property remains one of the city’s most historic landmarks.
The grant was awarded through the Barberton Is Back Grant Program, administered by Main Street Barberton and Barberton Community Development Corporation, and funded by Barberton Community Foundation. This competitive program directs funding to projects that demonstrate readiness, leverage private investment, and have the potential to create lasting economic and community impact in downtown Barberton.
The program provides matching, reimbursement-based funding for property owners pursuing structural improvements, code compliance, safety upgrades, and other investments that help position downtown properties for long-term redevelopment. Every dollar invested through the Foundation is matched by the property owner.
This initial investment will help move the Tracy Building into compliance and support critical initial improvements needed to position the property for future redevelopment. Over time, the long-term vision for the site includes 32 to 38 upper-floor apartments and renovated first-floor commercial space, creating the potential for new housing, business activity, and continued momentum in downtown Barberton.
“We are intentional about how and when we invest,” said Josh Gordon, executive director of Barberton Community Foundation. “Our board also has a high standard for the quality of the projects and the performance expectations of those leveraging the grant dollars. When we support projects like this, we are not just helping to restore a building. We are creating momentum toward our goal of attracting more people to live, work, and spend time in Barberton.”
“This is what preservation-based growth looks like,” said Melanie Black, executive director of Main Street Barberton. “When we restore historic spaces and return them to productive use, we create new opportunities for businesses, residents, and visitors in the heart of Barberton. We are incredibly grateful for Barberton Community Foundation’s continued investment in our city. This support strengthens the momentum we are building across our community and helps create a vibrant, welcoming, and economically resilient downtown.”
This investment reflects Barberton Community Foundation’s long-term commitment to downtown revitalization and a core belief that when downtown does well, the whole community does well.
Main Street Barberton, Barberton Community Development Corporation, and Barberton Community Foundation will remain in active partnership throughout the life of the grant, overseeing the stewardship of matching funds and ensuring accountability in the use of community investment.
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About Barberton Community Foundation
Established in 1996, Barberton Community Foundation has awarded over 8,500 grants and scholarships totaling more than $109 million since its inception. The Foundation strives to improve, now and forever, the quality of life for Barberton residents by providing leadership on vital issues, fostering collaboration and creating a legacy of giving to do good. The Foundation strengthens the community for current and future generations by proactively directing its grant dollars to the community’s greatest needs. To read more about Barberton Community Foundation visit www.barbertoncf.org or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/barbertoncommunityfoundation.