Participants at the announcement of the pre-development agreement between the Millcreek Township General Authority and Millcreek Momentum, LLC. Contributed photo.
Generational Investment Enters Pre-Development Stage
The Millcreek Township General Authority (MTGA) voted to approve a pre-development agreement with Millcreek Momentum, LLC for the redevelopment of the Authority’s Gateway District properties at West Eighth Street and Peninsula Drive following an extensive developer selection process.
Millcreek Momentum, LLC is a joint venture between JMF Properties, Mark Schweiker as senior advisor and partner, and Gladstone Equities.
The approval marks the beginning of a pre-development phase that will allow the developer and MTGA time to conduct due diligence, refine project design, evaluate financial and regulatory considerations, and negotiate the terms of a final development agreement.
“This vote represents an important next step in a process that has been guided by the Embrace Millcreek Comprehensive Plan and the Presque Isle Gateway District Plan,” said Matt Waldinger, Executive Director, MTGA. “Our focus remains on thoughtful planning, fiscal responsibility, and long-term benefit for Millcreek residents.”
The Gateway District has been the subject of planning efforts for nearly a decade, beginning with the township’s 2018 comprehensive plan. The MTGA initiated a formal developer selection process in April 2025 through a request for qualifications, followed by a request for proposals in June 2025.
The Authority evaluated submissions based on experience with comparable projects, financial capacity, alignment with township planning documents, and responsibility to taxpayers.
MTGA Board Chair Dave Zimmer said the pre-development phase will focus on detailed planning and public engagement.
“The pre-development agreement provides a structured framework to evaluate feasibility, design, financing, and regulatory requirements before any final development agreement is executed,” said, Dave Zimmer, chairperson, MTGA. “We are committed to a deliberate and transparent process.”
The proposed mixed-use concept includes residential units, retail space, hospitality, and public amenities such as pedestrian and bicycle improvements. Final plans will be refined during the pre-development phase, and public amenities will be informed by community input.
MTGA Vice Chair Cheryl Mitchell, who managed real estate and facilities at Erie Insurance prior to retirement, said the project, which is intended to strengthen the township’s tax base over time, is in good hands with the nationally recognized developer.
“This unique team of experienced developers has the municipal and development experience, backed with the deep financial strength required to undertake this consequential project,” said Cheryl Mitchell, vice-chairperson, MTGA.
The development team, led by Joseph M. Forgione, who brings more than 25 years of development experience – constructing over 3,000 residential units, as well as multiple commercial and retail spaces, is backed by Gladstone Equities, LLC. Millcreek Momentum, LLC is anchored by former Pennsylvania Governor Mark Schweiker who offers a unique background in municipal government and innovative real estate development for townships— including residential, commercial, and combined mixed use.
“We’re proud to be part of this once-in-a-generation redevelopment effort,” said Josh Kalafer, Gladstone Equities, Managing Partner.
“Understanding the history of this storied intersection – and its potential value to millions of Presque Isle visitors as well as the residents of Millcreek Township, allows us all to imagine a new Millcreek Gateway in a way the reflects this iconic undertaking,” said Mark S. Schweiker, Senior Advisor and Partner, Millcreek Momentum, LLC
Additional information, including a project overview and frequently asked questions, is available at mtga.org.
Millcreek Township encourages interested parties to follow the project on Millcreek Township General Authority on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn on www.mtga.org.
Related Audio – forthcoming