Governor Shapiro Reopens CRIZ to Boost Economic Growth in Erie, Reading

New Economic Zones Aim to Revitalize Erie and Reading

In a significant move to boost Pennsylvania's economy, Governor Josh Shapiro's administration has approved Erie and Reading for the City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) program. This initiative, which had been dormant for a decade, aims to rejuvenate urban areas by transforming vacant or dilapidated buildings into thriving business hubs.

Earlier this year, Governor Shapiro signed the 2024-25 bipartisan budget, paving the way for these new designations. The reopening of the CRIZ program marks a collaborative effort, as Shapiro emphasized, “My Administration worked across the aisle to restart the CRIZ program for the first time in more than a decade and create real opportunity in Pennsylvania.”

The CRIZ program designates areas up to 130 acres for economic growth, using state and local taxes generated within these zones to fund development projects. It is managed by the Departments of Revenue and Community and Economic Development, alongside the Governor's Budget Office. Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger stated, “These designations are game changers for the cities of Erie and Reading — supplying them with a powerful tool to move their economies forward.”

Success stories from other CRIZ-participating cities, such as Lancaster, Bethlehem, and Tamaqua, which together saw nearly $15 million returned last year, underscore the program's potential. Pat Browne, Secretary of Revenue, noted, “Our team at the Department of Revenue has recently toured the existing City Revitalization and Improvement Zones in other areas of Pennsylvania. Those tours have given us the opportunity to see firsthand the growth and progress that has occurred in these communities with the help of the CRIZ program.”

This initiative is part of a broader economic strategy aimed at positioning Pennsylvania as a leader in innovation and job creation. Earlier this year, Governor Shapiro and Secretary Siger launched the state's first comprehensive economic development strategy in nearly 20 years. The 2024-25 bipartisan budget includes significant investments such as:

• $500 million for site development, including $400 million for the PA SITES program
• $20 million for the Main Street Matters program to support small businesses
• $15 million for tourism marketing, enhancing Pennsylvania's appeal under the The Great American Getaway brand

For more on Pennsylvania’s Economic Development Strategy, visit the full report. Learn how Governor Shapiro’s budget will foster economic opportunities for residents here.

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