In 2011, this city of more than 87,000 people and 28 parks had no active rec centers and zero playgrounds. But that was all about to change with the genesis of the Reading Recreation Commission, an organization that has flourished thanks to creative funding solutions, a whole lot of elbow grease, and one inspiring leader.
From a runway rehab to new accommodations, this major transportation hub is getting a major upgrade. And the changes don't stop at the jetway — downtown Middletown is also on the rise thanks to streetscape improvements and a slate of new businesses.
Zoetropolis Cinema Stillhouse, a combination indie movie theater, micro-distillery and restaurant, is coming soon to a long-vacant furniture store on Water Street. It's the sequel to a beloved boutique theater, expanding alongside the booming city's vibrant arts community.
Packed with assets both natural and historic, Columbia in Lancaster County is a town in transition, rebounding after decades of struggle. Local residents and organizations have put a fresh focus on recreation and infrastructure, revamping downtown, luring a brewpub, launching a new river trail, and spotlighting the town's inherent charm. The key to Columbia's future is also the source of its past prosperity: the Susquehanna River.
Story Slams are spreading across Pennsylvania, giving everyone with something to say a platform to perform. These events are not only great for the creative community, but a huge boost to the businesses that host them.
Nearly one million tons of avocado pits ends up in landfills every year. Persea, a State College startup, is killing two birds with one stone, diverting the pits and converting them into a healthy alternative to artificial colors.
Slated to be incorporated over the next 20 to 50 years at a cost of at least $100 million, an expansive new program aims to reduce the amount of runoff and sewage that ends up in Harrisburg's waterways. Similar initiatives have also been shown to improve quality of life and raise property values.
Take a wealth of venues and cultural organizations, coupled with proximity to major Northeast arts hubs, accessible cost of living and a historic city rife with inspiring spaces, and you've got the perfect recipe for an arts-and-theater boomtown.
This Wyomissing-based IT firm is gearing up for a big expansion. The first step is putting down roots in Center City Philadelphia, gaining access to its thriving tech culture and a raft of important clients.
Lancaster's Reflexion offers a portable, rapid concussion test for amateur and school sports. The three founders are tackling a problem that impacts 50 million athletes across the country, and hoping to save lives in the process.