Look Back: 2021 in Williamsburg

I always like to do a look-back on the year that was in our town. As I sit here in my office thinking about this article, I looked back (pun intended) on what I wrote leaving 2020. I wrote, “For a lot of us, this year was one to learn some life lessons – but what can we say about our town of Williamsburg? Arguably, our town is going through a time of change. We are not the Williamsburg of yesteryear – but what we are is a town on the verge of a comeback.”

Can it be said that this is where we are right now? Two weeks ago, I attended the Lower Trail discussion meeting where many brought ideas about how to make our town a “Trail Town” and reap the many benefits that other trail towns in Pennsylvania have. I left the meeting energized, full of ideas and aware of the reality that our town is completely full of potential.

Besides that meeting, a lot of good things happened to our town this year. The borough acquired the property across from Cenveo – what possibilities can that bring to the table for years to come? The borough partnered with SPUR Inc. to work on grants for the borough and surrounding areas, which showed the commitment by the borough and the elected members to put Williamsburg back in a positive direction and assume its highest potential.

Some new businesses came into town. The long-awaited Biddle’s Brewing Company offered coffees and other drink items from its truck this fall. The BeRadiant Boutique gives residents a local option instead of having to go into Altoona for in-style clothing.

As always, we have to look at both the good and the bad. It was announced that the only bank in town would be closing in 2022. While those details are not set in stone, this could cause issues with many residents who use the bank on a regular basis.

So as we look back, what’s to come for Williamsburg in 2022? As I was reading last year’s article, I must admit – there are wonderful things ahead for our town. Our town has gone through many years of bad luck, but like always, the strength and love of our community shines through. With that determination, Williamsburg is set to get back on the map and bring us many blessings for years and years to come. As a community who always comes together, we need each other now more than ever to make Williamsburg a must-stop destination for not only those near, but far.