Rep. O'Brien: State to boost Mahoning Valley nonprofit expansion project

State Rep. Sean O’Brien (D-Bazetta) today announced the approval of a $500,000 state loan to Ohio Utilities Protection Service (OUPS) for the construction of a new corporate office in North Jackson, Mahoning County. Expected to open in August 2017, the new state-of-the-art 16,524 sq. ft. corporate office will be built in the Youngstown Commerce Park and allow the not-for-profit public safety organization to create nine new jobs and retain 66 existing jobs. Once the new building is complete, the headquarters will house all 75 of the nonprofit’s employees.

“As a long standing employer in Mahoning County, I’m happy that OUPS’ new office will allow them to remain close to home,” said O’Brien. “For over 40 years, OUPS has served as a community resource and protective service for Ohio property owners looking to break new ground. I am pleased that the state has invested to help keep and create new jobs here in the Mahoning Valley.”

Established in the Mahoning Valley in 1972, OUPS serves as a means of communication between homeowners and other property owners who need to dig and the operators of underground utilities across the state of Ohio. The organization can provide property owners with the information they need to avoid hitting an underground utility line when they dig, which could disrupt utility service, cause damage to the environment and even serious personal injury. The company’s current headquarters are on Belmont Avenue in Youngstown.

The loan is being allocated as part of the state’s Regional 166 Loan Program, which provides low interest loans for land and building acquisition, construction, expansion or renovation, and equipment purchases for eligible businesses. Eligible projects include those related to industry, commerce, and distribution or research activities.