( WJET/WFXP )– After several years of bipartisan support and work, the City of Erie has had its application for a City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) designation approved for downtown Erie.
Governor Josh Shapiro announced Monday he signed the approval for both Erie and Reading, PA to receive their CRIZ designations to help with renovating vacant or rundown spaces to attract new businesses and create jobs.
Erie City Council passes CRIZ ordinance; Schember gives mid-year report
CRIZ areas can be up to 130 acres where state and local taxes collected in 2024 can be used as a baseline that would increase as revenue grows with the difference being returned locally, something Governor Shapiro called a game changer for both Erie and Reading.
“These designations are game changers for the cities of Erie and Reading — supplying them with a powerful tool to move their economies forward,” said Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger. “This is an exciting step forward for both cities that will help revitalize communities, generate jobs, and further strengthen our economy.”