After 17 years in Wheeling, growing the Ziegenfelder Co. alongside my beautiful wife Lisa, and witnessing Wheeling’s cycles of growth and quietude, a distinct vision for our city has taken root within me. It’s a vision not born from a boardroom, but from walks along the waterfront, conversations with community leaders and like-minded optimists, and the joy of watching my grandchildren grow in the echoes of Wheeling’s rich history.

Wheeling isn’t a city that rests on its laurels. From the pioneering spirit of the Zane family to the industrial backbone that fueled generations, our past is a testament to the collective will of those who came before us. Their vision, their drive, left an indelible mark on this place we call home.

But vision isn’t stagnant. It evolves, adapts … and most importantly, it inspires. And right now, Wheeling is brimming with a potent energy that demands our attention.

The Downtown Streetscape project, a vibrant reawakening of the beauty found in the heart of downtown, is more than just beautification. It’s a canvas, a new slate upon which the next chapter of our city can be written. The transformative presence of the new WVU Medicine Cancer Center, coupled with the tireless efforts of the Wheeling Heritage Corp. and the electrifying atmosphere of WesBanco Arena and the Capitol Theatre, paint a picture of a city on the rise. These are all pieces of a larger vision ­– a vision of Wheeling as a destination, a cultural hub, a place where opportunity thrives.

But this vision isn’t a spectator sport. It’s a call to action. We, the residents, the entrepreneurs, the dreamers of Wheeling, have a responsibility to seize this moment. To support not just established institutions, but to welcome with open arms those who see potential in our city — the restaurateurs, the retailers, the artists, the innovators. Their vision, woven into the fabric of our community, will become part of our legacy.

I also share publicly my utmost respect and admiration for the professionals (both public and private), like myself, who envision a bright future and are actively leading Wheeling with hope and possibility. I can truly say our community leaders work tirelessly to make Wheeling a great place to live! We are blessed to have such a dedicated group of leaders to drive positive change.

This isn’t just about filling storefronts and event calendars. It’s about leaving a legacy for future generations. We stand at a crossroads, perhaps the most pivotal point in decades. The Wheeling we leave behind for our children and grandchildren will be a testament to our vision, our audacity, and our commitment to building upon the incredible foundation laid by those who came before us.

While the time for dreaming is never over, it’s also a time for action.

Let’s open our eyes, embrace the present opportunity, and together, etch our own chapter in the vibrant history of Wheeling. This city, with its rich heritage and boundless potential, is ready for its next act. Let’s make it one for the history books.

Barry Allen of Wheeling served many roles over the years in helping lead The Ziegenfelder Co. including overseeing the sales department, Chief People Officer and also as company president.