Ford City Borough - A Great Place to Live and Work

Located in Armstrong County 40 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, lies Ford City Borough.

The borough sits along the east bank of the Allegheny River, and 4 miles south of Kittanning, which is the County Seat.
 

Ford City was founded in 1887 by John B. Ford, founder of Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company, as a company town. Ford was an industrialist interested in establishing the plate glass company in this location, due to the advantage of low shipping costs with the proximity of the river. Huge amounts of natural gas were available as well, providing the fuel source for firing up the huge kilns used in the process. The plant had a long manufacturing history, with other companies throughout the years taking ownership and use of the space.

The population of Ford City Borough is made up of numerous ethnic heritages, all woven together and displayed in various community celebrations throughout the year.

Chris Jogan, Chief of Ford City Hose Co. 1 states: “Ford City is such a photogenic town and has that charm that appeals to everyone. From the different churches around town, to the trails, scenic views along the river or up on the hill, I really enjoy taking photos here. It’s a borough on the rise with industry moving in and upgraded infrastructure. As a transplant who came from a big city 15 years ago, I’ve really enjoyed the relationships I’ve made in the community. I’m proud to call Ford City home.”
 

The Armstrong Trail, nearly 50 miles long, is located on the former Allegheny Valley Railroad line along the eastern bank of the Allegheny River in Armstrong & Clarion Counties. Nearly two miles of the trail traverses through the borough, with a small spur to the riverfront on the southern end of town. The trail links Leechburg, Schenley, Ford City, Kittanning and East Brady as well as many other communities.

Ford City Memorial Park is a treasure within the borough. The park also features a gazebo and a war memorial dedicated to the men and women of Ford City who served in the U.S. military. The borough also has several playgrounds and a renovated basketball court for family fun.

“This town is rich in history as well as potential. Being an employee of Ford City Borough allows me to be a part of many wonderful things happening here and having the pleasure of playing even a small role in the process. With critical infrastructure upgrades in progress and consistent commercial and industrial growth, this community should be on everyone’s radar, for a day trip or a place to call home. Having grown up in Ford City, it has been very rewarding to see how much the community has grown without losing any of the charm that has retained so many life-long residents or drawn people back to their Ford City roots,” stated Abby Nimerosky, assistant secretary and office administrator for Ford City Borough.

Photos by Ford City Co. 1 Fire Chief, Chris Jogan