OAQDA Financing Helps Quaker City Concrete Strengthen Operations, Protect Jobs in Columbiana County

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 15, 2026

Media Contact: Lindsey Sanders
[email protected]

419-618-1708

OAQDA Financing Helps Quaker City Concrete Strengthen

Operations, Protect Jobs in Columbiana County

COLUMBUS - The Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA) has approved financing to help Quaker City Concrete Products, a small manufacturer in Columbiana County, make critical upgrades that will protect jobs and strengthen operations for employees and the community.

With support of up to $110,000 in financing, including a $20,000 grant, Quaker City Concrete will install a new dust control system designed to meet Ohio EPA and federal clean air requirements. The investment ensures the company can remain compliant while safeguarding the health of its 31 employees and supporting its long-term growth.

"For a small business like ours, these kinds of investments are significant," said Tim Ridzon, Co-Owner of Quaker City Concrete Products. "OAQDA's support allows us to do the right thing for our employees and our community, protecting air quality while also protecting jobs."

The new equipment will reduce harmful dust emissions, improve workplace safety, and provide the company with greater stability to keep contributing to the local economy.

"Quaker City Concrete is a perfect example of how OAQDA helps small businesses turn regulatory requirements into opportunities," said Christina O'Keeffe, executive director of OAQDA. "This investment allows a family-owned business to modernize, protect jobs, and create healthier workplaces that better serve Columbiana County."

"Investing in Quaker City Concrete is investing in the future of our region," said Senator Al Cutrona (R-Canfield). "By helping this small business comply with clean air regulations, we are not only protecting jobs, we are also protecting the health of families and workers who call this community home."

"This project shows the importance of standing behind our small businesses," said Representative Monica Robb Blasdel (R-New Waterford). "With OAQDA's support, Quaker City Concrete can continue to grow while also doing its part to improve air quality. That means a stronger economy, healthier workplaces, and more opportunities for people here in our community."

This project was approved by the OAQDA through the Small Business Assistance Program, OAQDA offers financing packages that are structured to suit the needs of individual projects, which are incentivized with financial benefits using conduit bonds and grants to help small businesses cover a portion of project costs.

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The Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA) is a non-regulatory government agency working to position Ohio as a leader in harmonizing a strong economy and a healthy environment. Since its creation in 1970, OAQDA has worked to improve air quality by supporting businesses, creating jobs and improving communities while enhancing the health and safety of all Ohioans. To date, OAQDA has awarded more than $6 billion to finance air quality projects. For more information about OAQDA and its services, please visit ohioairquality.org.