Governor Shapiro Drives Economic Growth with $35B Investments in PA

December 29, 2025 December 29, 2025

Editorial Staff

Pennsylvania's Economic Growth Under Governor Shapiro

Pennsylvania’s economy under Governor Shapiro continues to thrive as one of the strongest in the nation, and stands as the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy.

Since assuming office, Governor Shapiro and his administration have secured over $35 billion in private investments, resulting in the creation of more than 18,000 new jobs across the state. This month, major economic development initiatives were announced, involving hundreds of millions in private sector investment and the promise of thousands of well-paying jobs throughout Pennsylvania.

Key strategies include the launch of Pennsylvania's first Economic Development Strategy in nearly 20 years, focusing on sectors like agriculture, energy, life sciences, manufacturing, and technology. This initiative supports both local and global companies aiming to expand their operations in Pennsylvania.

Significant Projects Announced in October

Revitalizing Pittsburgh with the Esplanade Development Project: A groundbreaking ceremony marked the start of the Esplanade Development Project, anticipated to create 9,300 construction jobs and 4,500 permanent positions, generating $1.5 billion in economic output. The Shapiro Administration's $35 million investment will support the construction of up to 750 apartments, retail space, entertainment venues, and more.
Securing Investment from Farm Plast: Farm Plast is set to invest $8 million in a new manufacturing facility in Muncy, Lycoming County, supported by a $3.5 million loan and a $500,000 grant. The project will create 69 jobs.
Investing in DrinkPAK’s Flagship East Coast Facility: The establishment of DrinkPAK’s East Coast manufacturing facility in Philadelphia, backed by a $2 million grant, will bring a $195 million investment and 174 new jobs over the next three years.
Expanding Calgon Carbon Corporation’s Manufacturing in Pennsylvania: The state secured a $13.2 million investment from Calgon Carbon Corporation, expanding its operations in Pittsburgh and creating 23 new jobs while retaining 405 existing positions.
Growing Pennsylvania’s Life Sciences Industry with Eurofins Expansion: Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories is set to invest $147.5 million in expanding its Pennsylvania operations. The expansion will create 250 new jobs and retain over 3,000 existing positions, making it the largest Eurofins site globally.
Designating New Main Streets in Adams and Montgomery County: Gettysburg and the City Ave District in Montgomery County and Philadelphia received Main Street designations through the Main Street Matters program, making each eligible for up to $225,000 in funding and technical assistance to implement five-year revitalization strategies.
Improving Lives and Revitalizing Neighborhoods through NAP: The Shapiro Administration announced a $70 million investment for 405 projects across Pennsylvania under the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), offering businesses tax credits of up to 95% on contributions to qualifying projects.

Voices from the Business Community and Government

Eric Lomak, General Manager, Farm Plast: “Farm Plast is moving full steam ahead with its new manufacturing facility in Muncy, producing high-quality, American-made products and creating jobs in the great state of Pennsylvania. We plan to breathe new life into the empty warehouse that has long been forgotten and we are incredibly grateful for all the support we received from DCED and Governor Shapiro.”

Roberto E. Perez, CEO, HRP Group: “Welcoming DrinkPAK to the Bellwether District marks a major milestone in the transformation of this iconic site into a 21st-century sustainable ecosystem for the region. DrinkPAK’s decision to locate in Philadelphia is a powerful validation of the City and Commonwealth’s unparalleled advantages paired with our mission to reimagine strategic real estate as the economic engines of tomorrow.”

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker: “From day one, my administration has been clear — Philadelphia is open for business. DrinkPAK choosing to build its flagship East Coast facility in Philadelphia at the Bellwether District, bringing high-quality manufacturing and construction jobs to our City in a very competitive process, is proof that our strategy is working. Philadelphia is a clear destination of choice for business. This only happens because of exceptional intergovernmental and public/private cooperation. I applaud Governor Shapiro’s leadership, and I thank Roberto Perez and the HRP Group for their continued partnership and investment in our city’s future. DrinkPAK’s arrival is more than a milestone — it’s a signal that Philadelphia will be at the center of the next chapter of American manufacturing.”

Neal Salerno, Senior Vice President, Eurofins BioPharma Product Testing, NA: “As one of Lancaster County’s largest employers, we are proud to expand our capacity and services for our global clients while offering outstanding career opportunities. This growth reflects the dedication and expertise of our team in building strong partnerships with the clients we serve. We are grateful for the support of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Eurofins Scientific’s commitment to funding growth that strengthens customer service and further expands the world’s most comprehensive testing network. Our long-term investments in this space set us apart and open exciting opportunities for the future.”

Ezra Rothman, President, EDC Lancaster County: “Eurofins’ evolution from a locally rooted laboratory into a world-class leader in biopharmaceutical, environmental, and food testing demonstrates how collaboration between Lancaster County businesses and local educational institutions can strengthen efforts to develop and retain top talent, drive innovation, and compete successfully on a global scale. EDC Lancaster County is proud to support both Eurofins’ physical expansion here in the county, as well as its continued growth as a global leader in the life sciences sector.”

Senator Vincent Hughes, Senate Democratic Appropriations Chair: “I’m proud to see City Avenue get the recognition and investment it needs from the state’s Main Street Matters program. This part of the city is already a major hub and home to many small businesses, but I know we can make City Avenue an even better place to work, live, and enjoy. New retail and dining options, improved infrastructure and walkability, and public art projects will bring the economic vibrancy of City Ave to full capacity. This Main Street Designation is about to go a long way in helping our area reach its full potential.”

Bryan Fenstermaker, President and CEO, City Ave District: “Main Streets are the heart of local communities. They are where neighbors connect, where small businesses thrive, and where the character of a place truly comes to life. City Ave District believes deeply in the essential role that Main Streets play in both community identity and economic vitality. This designation will help us strengthen the small businesses that define our district, while expanding the spaces where people gather, shop, and spend time. We’re grateful to the Shapiro Administration and the Pennsylvania Downtown Center for their support and we are excited to work alongside our Main Street partners to bring new energy, investment, and opportunity to Bala Avenue, 54th Street, and 63rd Street.”

Brent Vernon, BusinessPA Senior Managing Director: “Manufacturing and agriculture have always had a strong history here — which is why they’re two of the key industries we’re focusing on in Pennsylvania’s Economic Development Strategy. The Commonwealth has a strong business climate for companies like Farm Plast that are ready to grow and succeed here. This investment further advances our economic competitiveness and highlights our ability to attract companies from across the nation, create good-paying jobs, and support our local communities.”