Commercial development is strong and getting stronger in the St. Marys Area, with a retail/service sector that has something for every demographic. A unique combination of long-time local establishments and innovative start-ups offer products and services that range from classic to cutting edge, giving the area’s business districts broad appeal.
Retail & Commercial Development
Agriculture, Fishing, Forestry, and Hunting: 4
State & Federal Government: 74
Accommodation & Food Services: 72
Art, Entertainment, & Recreation: 13
Health Care & Social Assistance: 161
Educational Services: 9
Utilities & Construction: 90
Professional & Technical Services: 42
Real Estate, Finance, & Insurance: 61
Information: 15
Transportation & Warehousing: 39
Retail Trade: 113
Wholesale Trade: 30
Manufacturing: 142
Other Services: 30
In addition to the well-established downtown area in the City of St. Marys, there are business districts located along Million Dollar Highway (Route 255), Brusselles Street (Route 120 East), and State Street (Route 120 West). These commercial areas offer both small specialty shops and larger department stores.
Commercial Stability and Continuing Growth
The area’s strong and stable commercial base includes well-established traditional downtown areas as well as commercial/retail/service centers like Bucktail Village, which is located along Route 120 east.
The area’s commercial sector continues to grow, and future plans include an expansion of the retail base as well as the establishment of both residential and industrial subdivisions.
In 1990 the Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs awarded St. Marys with Main Street status. St. Marys utilizes state and federal guidelines for historical preservation and revitalization.
Marienstadt Corporation
Instrumental to much of the downtown development is the Marienstadt Corporation, established in 1986 to pursue an active strategy of revitalization for the Central Business District. Marienstadt Center (the former Kantar Department Store, acquired and refurbished by the Corporation) provides space for both retail businesses and nonprofit organizations.
The Center also houses offices and classrooms for the Community Education Council of Elk and Cameron Counties. A number of colleges and universities offer an assortment of both credit and noncredit classes for area residents at the Center.
