MARIETTA, Ohio — Buckeye Hills Regional Council will join community leaders, project partners, and residents on Tuesday, September 8, for two ribbon cutting celebrations recognizing transformative projects made possible through the Ohio Department of Development’s Appalachian Community Grant Program (ACGP).
The celebrations will take place in Marietta at 10:30 a.m. and Chauncey at 1 p.m., recognizing more than $11 million in investments that have transformed public spaces, improved accessibility and infrastructure, and created welcoming destinations for residents and visitors.
Marietta Levee Park Improvements
The first ribbon cutting will be held at 10:30 a.m. at the Marietta Levee, Ohio Street, Marietta, Ohio, celebrating the completion of the $9.4 million Marietta Levee Park Improvements project.
The project transformed a key section of Marietta’s riverfront through improvements designed to enhance accessibility, public gathering spaces, and views of the Ohio River. Ohio Street was completely reconstructed with a new subgrade, cross-slope adjustments, sidewalks, a brick street, and enhanced ADA accessibility. The project moved power lines underground, opening up views of the river and improving the area’s overall appearance.
Improvements also include a new retaining wall along Ohio Street, new stairs, and additional seating. The amphitheater was renovated, and the fountain was relocated and expanded to create a larger, enhanced focal point for the park. Strategically placed native trees further complement the improvements and create a more welcoming riverfront space for residents and visitors.
The City of Marietta, Buckeye Hills Regional Council, Ironton-Lawrence Community Action Organization, the Ohio Department of Development, and other project partners will gather to celebrate the project’s completion and recognize the collaboration that brought the vision to life.
Chauncey Downtown Revitalization
Later that afternoon, community members will gather in Chauncey at 1 p.m. at Chauncey Village Hall, 42 Converse Street, Chauncey, Ohio, to recognize the completion of the $1.9 million Chauncey Downtown Revitalization project.
The project transformed the Village of Chauncey’s downtown through new infrastructure and streetscape improvements, including new curbs, sidewalks, paving, and landscaping. The project also included two new murals, including one honoring the region’s coal mining history and the community’s Appalachian heritage.
Together, these improvements have created a more welcoming, attractive, and accessible downtown for residents and visitors while celebrating the community’s history and identity.
The Village of Chauncey, Buckeye Hills Regional Council, lead ACGP applicant Ross County, the Ohio Department of Development, and project partners will gather to celebrate the completion of the project, made possible through the Ohio Department of Development’s Appalachian Community Grant Program.
Members of the public and media are invited to attend both ribbon cutting celebrations.
Ribbon Cutting Schedule
Marietta Levee Park Improvements
Tuesday, September 8, 2026 | 10:30 a.m.
Ohio Street | Marietta, Ohio
Chauncey Downtown Revitalization
Tuesday, September 8, 2026 | 1 p.m.
Chauncey Village Hall
42 Converse Street | Chauncey, Ohio
To learn more about Buckeye Hills Regional Council, visit www.buckeyehills.org, call 740-374-9436 or 1-800-331-2644 (toll-free), or email info@buckeyehills.org.
