Tamaqua is set to benefit from more than $2 million in funding through Pennsylvania’s City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) program, according to an announcement from Secretary of Revenue Pat Browne.
The Shapiro Administration reported that $16.2 million will be distributed among three communities for the most recent reporting period (January 1–December 31, 2024). Tamaqua’s share amounts to $2,000,819.11, with additional funds going to Bethlehem ($2.05 million) and Lancaster ($12.18 million).
The CRIZ program is designed to help municipalities that have struggled with economic challenges by revitalizing vacant or underutilized spaces, attracting businesses, and creating jobs. Local officials say this latest investment in Tamaqua provides crucial support to ongoing downtown improvement and redevelopment initiatives.
Secretary Browne emphasized the program’s success:
“Since its inception, the CRIZ program has delivered nearly $102 million to participating communities, helping them attract development, revitalize their downtowns, and bring new jobs to their regions. This is a proven model, and Tamaqua has been one of the success stories.”
Tamaqua was one of the first small communities in Pennsylvania selected to participate in the program, which was modeled after Allentown’s Neighborhood Improvement Zone (NIZ). Funds collected through CRIZ are returned to local development authorities and can be used for property acquisition, new construction, debt service, and other revitalization costs.
Over the past decade, Tamaqua has used CRIZ resources to assist redevelopment projects across its borough, including downtown revitalization, building reuse, and public space improvements that aim to make the community more attractive for both residents and new businesses.
While Tamaqua continues to benefit, the Shapiro Administration also highlighted the expansion of the program to Erie and Reading, which will begin receiving funding in 2026. Governor Josh Shapiro worked with the legislature to reopen the CRIZ program for new applicants in the 2024–25 state budget.