For years, factories and mills anchored PA communities large and small. The question of what to do with these beautiful, historic buildings is an essential one, and there is no single answer. In Johnstown, metalwork has returned to a shuttered steel facility, while in the Poconos, a new generation of residents are setting up laptops and sipping lattes in an old silk mill.
The economics didn't work for the private sector, but the value of renovating this historic structure in the heart of the borough goes far beyond the spreadsheet. A coalition of local partners and an army of volunteers are getting it done, one brick at a time.
Arts are a driver of growth and vitality — that's the argument being made by economic development and local government leaders across the state. In a lively conversation, we heard from two such folks, one from Corry and one from York, about how their communities support, fund, and catalyze the creative sector, and how that work is paying unexpected dividends.
In the first episode of our new podcast, we’re heading to a small town across the river from Pittsburgh that is home to a spectacular set of church murals. Tackling themes such as social justice, poverty, and immigration, these stunning works of art, which are almost 100 years old, have a surprising amount of resonance in today’s world — and are playing an important role in Millvale’s renaissance.
In Easton, Erie and Lancaster, historic buildings have been reimagined as foodie destinations and culinary incubators. The goal is to lure hungry tourists and residents downtown while also showcasing the diversity of these vibrant communities.
A changing world pushed this arts campus towards its own evolution, inspiring the team to focus on accessibility and the outdoors. The annual Spring Iron Pour and Forge Festival, a celebration of local blacksmithing, is happening on April 30.
In the latest episode of our podcast series, we chatted with Ta Enos about returning to her hometown in the PA Wilds and dedicating her career to helping the region thrive, one business at a time. We've also got information on an exciting opportunity for local entrepreneurs.
These are the features our readers responded to the most, and they cover everything from ascendent small towns to recreation amenities to high tech wizardry.
The young mayor of Kane, PA, just earned a second term. She chatted with us about how she plans to use it, and what exactly has made this haven in the PA Wilds so successful.
Dublin is a Bucks County hamlet that has long been overshadowed by its neighbors. That is starting to change thanks to a raft of new businesses and The Square, a dynamic mixed-use development.