NEWTON FALLS, Ohio - The Newton Falls Downtown Historic District has been officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a designation that recognizes its historical significance. Tom Colosimo, a local businessman, received email notification Friday from the Ohio History Connection's State Historic Preservation Office.

The newly recognized district encompasses an area along Broad Street, bordered by Canal and Center Street.

The listing culminates a multi-year effort by local community members, including Colosimo, who spent three years researching the history of the downtown buildings. The district includes about 20 structures, some dating back to the 1800s, which house various local businesses.

“It brings a little charm to the town," Colosimo told 21 News earlier, noting the community's appreciation for the older buildings and their architectural importance. "We want to protect that.”

Newton Falls officials hope the historic designation will help preserve the town's character and could potentially attract federal grant money for building improvements. Mayor David Hanson previously described the town's vision as resembling "something like off a Hallmark greeting card," aiming to maintain an "old town look."

Local business owners also anticipate the listing could boost tourism, drawing visitors interested in historic sites.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official federal list of sites worthy of preservation, administered by the National Park Service. It aims to coordinate public and private efforts to identify and protect historical and archaeological resources across the country.

Being listed on the National Register does not impose federal restrictions on private property owners regarding what they can do with their property, unless federal assistance, such as funding, is involved in a project.