The Oil City Civic Center (OCCC) is thrilled to announce the completion of an existing conditions assessment of the National Transit Building, located in Oil City’s Northside Business District. This assessment was conducted by DesignLAB Architects, a Boston-based architectural firm. The project was financially supported by the Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission through its Keystone Historic Preservation grant program, with additional funds provided by the Oil Region Alliance from the National Park Service and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
“We are incredibly thankful for the support and investment we’ve received from our local and state partners in preserving our community’s historical heritage. This existing conditions assessment will help us prioritize and clearly communicate the rehabilitation needs of the National Transit Building,” said Patrick Pelletier, Chair of the OCCC.
This project is part of a series of grants dedicated to the rehabilitation and preservation of the National Transit Building. These include a $60,000 grant from the PNC Charitable Trust for aesthetic improvements to the Great Room and the creation of a new website to showcase the OCCC’s mission, advertise available rental spaces, and share the building’s history. Additionally, the Dr. and Mrs. Arthur William Phillips Charitable Trust awarded a $40,000 grant for critical infrastructure improvements in 2023 and a $100,000 grant for vital roof repairs in 2022. All these efforts reflect the OCCC’s commitment to preserving this historic landmark’s structural and historical integrity.
The OCCC provides affordable office spaces for non-profit organizations and for-profit businesses in the National Transit Building while maintaining its historical and structural integrity for future generations. Currently, several spaces are available for rent in both the main building and the Annex, all with Wifi accessibility. The Great Room in the main building is also available for rental, offering a versatile event space ideal for parties, conferences, meetings, and special events.
For media inquiries and further information, please contact: oilcityciviccenter@gmail.com
