Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration recently approved Erie and Reading’s applications to participate in the City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) program. The administration opened the CRIZ program to applications in 2024 for the first time since 2013.
“These designations are game changers for the cities of Erie and Reading — supplying them with a powerful tool to move their economies forward,” Rick Siger, secretary of the state Department of Community and Economic Development.
The program helps cities that have struggled economically to revitalize their downtowns to attract new businesses and create jobs. Funding is used to renovate vacant or rundown spaces.
A CRIZ is comprised of parcels designated by a contracting authority and is up to 130 acres within a political subdivision. Any state and local taxes collected within a CRIZ are used to stimulate economic development projects within the zone.
“This designation will help Erie and Reading attract new businesses, create more jobs, and reach their full economic potential,” Shapiro said. “My Administration will continue to get stuff done for communities all across the commonwealth and work to make Pennsylvania a leader in innovation, job creation, and economic development.”
Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Tamaqua, three communities participating in the CRIZ program, received nearly $15 million in 2023.