In order to revitalize and spur new economic growth in cities across Pennsylvania, Act 52 of 2013 established the City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) program.
 
This program has successfully redeveloped old, abandoned properties while creating jobs and generating millions in local revenue. State and local taxes which are collected in the CRIZ stay in the local community to further spur economic development.
 
Under current law, the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has the authority to approve two new CRIZ designations each year but is not required to do so.  Since the program’s establishment twelve years ago, only five communities have been granted a CRIZ: Lancaster, Bethlehem, Tamaqua, Erie, and Reading.
 
Legislation that I am reintroducing will require DCED to grant two new CRIZ designations each year.
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation.