By Darlene Brace
Westfield is located in Western Chautauqua County, which includes both the Village of Westfield and the surrounding township. This historic area, along the shores of Lake Erie, is known for its picturesque scenery and strong agricultural roots, particularly in the cultivation of Concord grapes as part of the Lake Erie Concord Grape Belt. It is home to the first large Welch’s Grape Juice plant, earning it the nickname of the “Grape Juice Capital.” Grape growing and related manufacturing, such as Mogen David Wine and the Grower’s Cooperative, are central to the local economy. Additionally, the area features several wineries along Lake Erie’s Wine Trail, including Johnson Estate Winery, Noble Winery, Five and 20, and 21 Brix, among others.
To celebrate the vital role that wine production plays in Westfield’s economy, the town organizes the annual Westfield Grape and Wine Festival that takes place each fall. This highly anticipated two-day community event showcases a variety of grape-related activities, providing attendees with the opportunity to participate in grape stomping and wine tastings from local vineyards. It also includes food and craft vendors, live music, and activities for people of all ages. The Westfield community looks forward to this festival that celebrates grape growing and wine that is a big part of this com-munity’s economy.
a charming community characterized by 19th-century archi-
tecture and a vibrant arts scene. The downtown area is fi lled
with a variety of small businesses, including restaurants, gift
shops, and the Westfi eld Antique Center, making it a hub for
tourism.
In addition to its wine industry, the Village of Westfield has a charming community characterized by 19th-century architecture and a vibrant arts scene. The downtown area is filled with a variety of small businesses, including restaurants, gift shops, and the Westfield Antique Center, making it a hub for tourism. Visitors are drawn to the area that offer easy access to Chautauqua Institution along with Barcelona that is on Lake Erie and is a community within the Town of Westfield. Barcelona is known for its historic harbor, lighthouse, and beaches, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
To enhance the town’s economy and appeal, the community is actively involved in ongoing revitalization efforts. The Westfield Development Corporation (WDC) plays a key role in these initiatives, serving as the foundation for revitalization in the Westfield area. It promotes economic development through a board made up of community volunteers. The Executive Director of the WDC, Donald McCord, oversees its operations and works towards achieving the goals and objectives set by the board. The corporation collaborates with local and regional stakeholders to stimulate eco-nomic growth, create jobs, increase the tax base, and enhance the community’s quality of life.
The WDC supports the community in various ways. It provides information about services, programs, and opportunities that can benefit small businesses in the area. Currently, there is a small grant available through the First Impressions Program, which assists businesses in both the town and village. With this grant, the WDC will match up to $2,000 that a business invests in making renovations.
In the near future, larger grants will be available. In April 2025, Westfield received approval for a significant grant through the New York Forward Program. This grant aims to revitalize the town by funding projects for public space improvements, business’s renovations, and cultural and historical sectors. Hopefully, it will help create jobs and support local revitalization and strengthens the economy.
In April, an initial grant approval in the amount of $4.5 million was approved. During this lengthy process, numerous project ideas were submitted. Weekly meetings took place through October, involving the Westfield Development Corporation and state representatives to discuss possible projects that could be funded by this grant. Sometime in the spring of 2026, projects will hopefully be approved. This funding will play a crucial role in the revitalization of the town and village.
Westfield is a lively township and village, that is known for its small-town charm, small businesses, arts scene, and outdoor attractions like Barcelona Beach and lighthouse. The community blends its grape agriculture, history, and outdoor recreation, making it an inviting place to live and visit. The Westfield Development Corporation is working to revitalize the area and enhance the quality of life for residents and tourists. Come to Westfield and experience the unique atmosphere of the town and all it has to offer.