A new revitalization effort in Johnstown wants to “recycle” buildings downtown.

Beautiful architecture, history and the chance to build a thriving and bustling city. That’s what Rick Truscello envisions looking at the historic buildings in downtown Johnstown.

“It’s part of the legacy,” said Truscello, Vision 2025 volunteer.

Truscello wants people to buy or renovate unused and boarded-up properties, adding businesses or apartments.

“We don’t want see buildings being needlessly torn down,” said Truscello. “If they can find an economic use.”

Vision 2025 is hosting a workshop next week to educate anyone interested in restoring historic buildings downtown. Experts there will include the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Architects, and City Building Code and Zoning Officials to walk you through the process.

“We’re going to have experts sitting there with people who have one-on-one questions about ‘What can I do with my building?'” said Truscello.

Truscello says the only way the city will thrive is if people invest in it, creating a place where people want to live and work.

“Some of these older buildings: there are challenges, but they can be turned into opportunities too,” said Truscello.

That workshop will be held next Tuesday, December 11 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Johnstown Heritage Discovery Center.