The City of Reading has earned a transformative boost to its economic development efforts with the announcement that it has been designated as a City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ). The designation, part of Governor Josh Shapiro’s efforts to restart the CRIZ program after more than a decade, is expected to pave the way for revitalizing downtown spaces, attracting new businesses, and creating job opportunities.
Mayor Eddie Moran hailed the announcement as a turning point for Reading. “Securing the CRIZ designation for Reading is a transformative step for our city. This achievement reflects our shared commitment to revitalizing our downtown, attracting new investment, and creating opportunities for all residents,” said Moran. “It has always been my mission to position Reading for success and help it achieve its full potential as the city we know it can be.”
The CRIZ program allows designated areas to reinvest state and local taxes collected within the zone into economic development projects. With up to 130 acres available for revitalization, the program provides a powerful tool to unlock the city’s potential.
Governor Shapiro emphasized the importance of CRIZ in driving economic growth: “This designation will help Erie and Reading attract new businesses, create more jobs, and reach their full economic potential. My Administration will continue to get stuff done for communities all across the Commonwealth.”
State leaders have also expressed optimism about the opportunities the designation brings. State Senator Judy Schwank said, “The City of Reading is gaining a powerful new tool we can use to foster economic growth and breathe new life into our community. It took a lot of hard work to reach this point, and I am grateful to all the folks at the City of Reading who spent many painstaking hours preparing a detailed vision for how a CRIZ will be put to good use in our community.”
State Rep. Manny Guzman echoed the sentiment, noting the program’s potential to meet the needs of the city’s evolving population. “We are going to welcome 2025 with renewed hopes in our beloved city. This CRIZ designation is the tool we needed to kickstart a revitalization, a comprehensive approach to community development,” Guzman said.
Reading’s CRIZ Authority will play a key role in implementing the program, ensuring that investments within the designated zone drive meaningful and long-lasting growth. With significant success stories already seen in other CRIZ cities such as Lancaster and Bethlehem, local officials are optimistic about Reading’s future.
“Together, we’re proving that Reading is ready for our next chapter,” concluded Mayor Moran. “This is a moment to celebrate, but also to prepare for the work ahead as we turn this opportunity into a brighter future for all.”
The CRIZ designation is part of Governor Shapiro’s broader economic strategy, which includes investments in small businesses, tourism, and community development. With Reading now poised for growth, city leaders aim to make the most of this transformative opportunity.
