MCDONALD, Pa. — Several properties in McDonald Borough are undergoing much needed renovations thanks to a development company, and its new black building.
Novelli Properties is renovating four properties within close proximity of McDonald Borough’s main drag, including the company’s new headquarters – the building in black.
The black building is being built over what used to be a Napa Auto Parts store in what is known as the historic area of McDonald.
The company’s owner has invested more than $3 million into rebuilding some of the older buildings, hoping to bring them “back to life.”
However, some residents have complained, saying they felt the owners should have to get approval of council to paint the building black. The borough’s council president said the owners of Novelli Properties can do what they want.
The Pit Hotel in McDonald is undergoing a major renovation as well, and Channel 11 got an inside look at the historic bar area and some of the other buildings originally built in the 1800s.
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“I think it's terrific,” said resident Dan Watson. “This town needed a little spark, somebody with some imagination.”
The company purchased the hotel with plans to turn it into a bed and breakfast.
Novelli said the money they company is putting into rebuilding McDonald will hopefully result in a large influx of traffic from the Pa. Turnpike toll road coming through a half mile up the street.
After the initial hesitation from residents, Novelli’s property manager Melissa Bengtson said the locals are starting to come around to the new changes.
“If you look through the town, (there’s) a lot of rustic look -- natural wear and tear,” Bengtson said. “When we painted this one black we got a little scarce response. Now they are seeing it's actually brightening the town up.”
The borough’s council president said about eight people complained at meetings, but in recent weeks many of them have had a change in heart.
They are happy to see such a big investment in their town.
Cox Media Group
