Gov. Tom Wolf recently visited Easton to view how state investments are revitalizing formerly vacant and blighted properties.
The city received a $1 million Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Industrial Sites Reuse Program (ISRP) remediation grant and $153,382 DCED ISRP assessment grant for remediation work at the 3.9-acre Black Diamond Silk Mill industrial site. It also received $13 million in Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency grants.
The nearly completed first phase includes a 55-unit housing complex, community center, and playground. Phase two will be mixed-use and will include retail and medical offices.
“Thanks to significant state investments, these projects create jobs, clean up environmental hazards and, once completed, will make the city an even better place to live, work, shop and enjoy,” Wolf said. “I’m pleased to visit the city to highlight some of the important economic development projects that are underway.”
The city also has received grants totaling $5.6 million for several other economic development projects currently underway. Projects include the demolition and environmental remediation of the former Eastern Iron and Metal Site. Work includes 150 residential units, 25,000 square feet of commercial space, and an outdoor facility to host performances, classes, and educational opportunities.
It also includes the rehabilitation of a property on North Fourth Street into a parking garage.