The City of Reading is on the verge of a significant milestone with the recent progress toward securing a City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) designation. Mayor Eddie Morán and State Representative Manny Guzman have expressed their excitement about this development, highlighting its potential to transform the city’s economic landscape.
Mayor Morán emphasized the transformative benefits of the CRIZ program for Reading’s diverse community. “This achievement is vital for our city’s economic development strategy and promises transformative benefits for our diverse community,” said Mayor Morán. He noted that nearly 70% of Reading’s population identifies as Latino, making inclusive and equitable growth a top priority.
The CRIZ program, designed to revitalize underutilized areas and turn them into bustling centers of commerce and innovation, aligns with Reading’s broader economic development plans. These plans have gained momentum since the city exited Act 47, marking a period of financial stability and setting the stage for sustained growth. Mayor Morán outlined several key priorities for economic development:
1. Inclusive Investment: Attracting diverse investors and businesses to reflect the community’s demographic composition, creating a more inclusive business environment.
2. Support for Minority-Owned Businesses: Prioritizing local businesses, particularly those owned by minority entrepreneurs, to help them expand, innovate, and create jobs.
3. Community-Focused Revitalization: Ensuring redevelopment projects meet the needs and aspirations of residents, enhancing the quality of life in all neighborhoods.
4. Workforce Development: Investing in workforce development programs for the community, providing residents with skills and opportunities to participate in the city’s economic resurgence.
5. Common-Sense Zoning: Implementing zoning policies that encourage smart growth and development, making it easier for businesses to thrive while preserving the character of neighborhoods.
State Rep. Manny Guzman, a key advocate for the CRIZ program, announced that the General Assembly opened the application process for the program on Thursday. Guzman expressed confidence in the city’s ability to present a compelling application. “We are now at a critical juncture, and I feel optimistic. I commend the tremendous progress that the City of Reading has made,” he said.
Guzman has been instrumental in getting the CRIZ language approved and underscored the program’s potential to ignite innovation and transform neglected areas into dynamic hubs of progress. “The city of Reading is poised to ignite innovation and transform neglected areas into dynamic hubs of progress,” Guzman declared. “We urgently need new investors; we must incentivize current business owners and invigorate the city’s workforce. This state-sponsored program is a vital component of a comprehensive strategy to propel the city forward.”
Earlier this year, Guzman introduced legislation to update the CRIZ program and expand redevelopment opportunities across Pennsylvania. House Bill 2406 aims to extend eligibility to smaller municipalities and allow up to four new CRIZ zones per year.
Mayor Morán expressed gratitude to local and state leaders for their support. “Our journey out of Act 47 marked a turning point for Reading, symbolizing financial recovery and a renewed commitment to growth. The CRIZ designation represents the next step in this journey, providing the tools and incentives needed to propel our city forward,” he said. “As your Mayor, I will continue to advocate for Reading to legislative leadership and the Shapiro Administration, working tirelessly to build a better, more prosperous city for all of us.”
