Two years after a Norfolk Southern train derailment rocked this village, East Palestine officials have posted a report highlighting progress made in the recovery and revitalization efforts.

The Feb. 3, 2023, derailment, which involved hazardous materials, prompted evacuations and concerns about environmental impacts.  Since then, village officials say they have focused on rebuilding and improving the community.

“While we will not forget the day and events that followed, what we choose to remember is the resiliency of the town and the strength we have shown as we pushed forward,” the report stated.

Among the key developments:

Rebranding: The village adopted a new logo and slogan, “Pride. Tradition. Progress.”

Communication: A new website, epohio.org, and social media channels were launched to provide reliable information. A monthly newsletter, "East Palestine Progress," is mailed to residents and businesses. Village council meetings are also filmed and posted online.

Community Improvement: The Village of East Palestine Community Improvement Corporation (EPCIC), a non-profit, was established to work on development goals.

Park Improvements: The $25 million East Palestine Community Park Improvement project, funded by Norfolk Southern, is underway and expected to be completed in 2026.

Historic Depot: The village accepted the renovated train depot from Norfolk Southern and received technical assistance to develop a reuse plan. Requests for proposals from businesses or organizations interested in the space are being accepted.

Water Safety: A new Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) filtration system was put into service at the water treatment plant.

Economic Development: The EP VIP Shopper Club was created to spur local shopping. An online database of available properties was also launched.

After-Action Review: Mission Critical Partners conducted an after-action review of the derailment response and presented recommendations. The village is working on a strategy to implement improvements.

Safety Initiatives: The village received a federal grant to develop a comprehensive safety action plan for local streets, including pedestrian and trail improvements.

Environmental Review: The U.S. EPA’s Technical Assistance Services for Communities (TASC) Program reviewed environmental monitoring data.

Downtown Revitalization: The village is collaborating with Small Nation on a downtown revitalization plan.

Community Input: The East Palestine Think Tank collected input from residents to help guide the village's future.

Public Safety Complex: The village was awarded up to $15.8 million in federal funding for a new public safety complex.

Fundraising: The EPCIC raised $161,500 through a tree lighting and fundraiser.

Downtown Plaza: The village purchased the former PNC Bank property to develop a community plaza.

Village officials say they continue to work on long-term recovery and revitalization efforts.