14 The village of Cedarville — a charming community east of Dayton with a rich history — is in the midst of a major redevelopment effort, spanning from historic facilities and downtown icons to transformational projects at Cedarville University. Amidst these ongoing efforts, Revitalize Cedarville was formed, comprised of a diverse team of Cedarville residents representing different aspects of the community. The group is working together to provide a long-term vision for revitalization and an actionable plan for the village with the priority of preserving historic assets. Revitalize Cedarville highlights all areas of the village, with a focus on downtown through its monthly Sidewalk Saturdays — a community gathering featuring local vendors, live music, engaging activities and food. These efforts have brought a renewed interest into the downtown area, where two projects are now underway. The historic Cedarville Hardware is coming back to downtown after closing nearly a decade ago. Cedarville Hardware was a staple of the downtown core for over 70 years, first opening in the 1950s. The store was put up for sale after its owner, Glenn Fawcett, died in 2018. Additionally, the Cedarville Opera House, constructed in 1888, is undertaking an extensive remodeling effort. The project involves extensive renovations and restoration at the 12,600-squarefoot structure, including the installation of elevators, restroom upgrades, sound and lighting controls, video equipment, dressing rooms, woodwork restorations and much more. The Opera House is on the Register of Historic Buildings, meaning the remodeling will adhere closely to the original structure which was modeled after the Royal Albert Theatre in London, England. As a result of the remodel effort, the Opera House closed in Dec. 2024 and will remain so until the project is complete, which could take up to three years. John Cody, mayor of Cedarville, credits Revitalize Cedarville as one of the main factors driving the village’s recent boom, along with greater collaboration with Cedarville University. “With the creation of Sidewalk Saturdays, it has really helped to remind people that there is a downtown and that there are businesses down here, which is really the goal,” Cody said. “This has also helped foster a good relationship between the village and the university, and I think that’s been the biggest catalyst for growth.” As for Cedarville University, the school is currently in the process of constructing the $35 million Bolthouse Academic Center, which is From Morris Bean to Main Street Cedarville’s historic revival sparks village-wide transformation by Lauren Steen Reprinted with permission from the Dayton Business Journal, November 14, 2025.
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