Strategic Economic Development Plan
City of Scranton
Economic Strategy
Following decades of population decline and a reduced tax base, the City sought a catalytic strategic economic development plan. This plan aimed to present a forward-looking, actionable, and immediately implementable vision for the city. It would build on opportunities, like exiting Act 47 designation, and mitigate challenges, such as the wage gap. The plan needed to offer equitable opportunities for residents, sustainable growth for businesses, and resilience for the city’s economy.
The City’s Office of Economic Development, which provides resources for public and private development, led this work.
Our Approach
Over six months, Fourth Economy led a strategic planning process. This included economic analysis, community engagement, ideation, surveying, and strategy development. Each step aimed for maximum participation from Scranton residents and stakeholders, with attention to representation from all neighborhoods and diverse communities. Build Sessions and small group meetings solicited targeted resident input and helped co-create the plan’s final strategies and vision statements. Strategies were framed around immediate (2-3 years), intermediate (3-7 years), and longer-term (10-20 years) horizons. Priorities included industry growth, diverse talent, community pride, affordable housing, and infrastructure. Connect the Dots, a community engagement firm, supported this plan.
The Results
The final plan included deliverables for multiple uses: print and digital files, and a presentation deck with key economic insights and core strategies. These materials will catalyze investment in Scranton, foster collaboration with stakeholders, and guide the City’s ongoing economic development efforts.
Location
Scranton, PA