Harkins, Merski: Erie would receive economic boost under proposed bill
Rep. Robert Merski January 9, 2024
ERIE, Jan. 8 – In a collaborative effort to help bolster the city of Erie’s local economy, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced the introduction of legislation that would create a City Revitalization Improvement Zone for Erie.
The lawmakers said the of the legislation, H.B. 1949, would help spur new economic growth within the city by reshaping certain sects of the downtown and creating new family sustaining employment for Erie residents.
“The city of Erie has tremendous opportunity for growth and rejuvenation,” said Harkins. “Establishing a CRIZ for Erie would give the city a leg up in preparing to compete economically for the next half-century and beyond.
“We have seen staggering investments in Erie ranging from various infrastructure projects to strengthening our offerings for tourism and recreation, and adopting this plan would expand our ability to continue prioritizing the economic development of our region,” he added.
“The upward trajectory of Erie’s economic standing is the result of community and business leaders banding together and putting in the work for the betterment of our entire area,” Merski said.
“While we have made great strides in this collective endeavor, there is no time for stagnation and complacency. Establishing a CRIZ is the appropriate response to continue this incredible momentum we have established over the last several years. I look forward to continuing to work with officials at the state, local, and county levels to set out the goals we all want to see be accomplished,” he added.
More information about City Revitalization Improvement Zones can be found here.