Governor Wolf Announces Funding for Redevelopment of Crane Iron Works Site in Lehigh County
Harrisburg, PA – (RealEstateRama) — Governor Tom Wolf announced new funding for the redevelopment of the former Crane Iron Works site located in Catasauqua, Lehigh County. The more than 12-acre property will be developed into a mix of commercial, residential, and public uses.
“This is the type of project that can transform a community by turning an abandoned site into new opportunity,” said Governor Wolf. “The commonwealth’s support will help the borough redevelop the site to help attract businesses and residents, creating new jobs and boosting the local economy.”
The Borough of Catasauqua was approved for a $1.5 million grant to prepare the former Crane Iron Works site for mixed-use development through the demolition of old, obsolete industrial buildings and the installation of critical infrastructure including roadways, street lighting, and water/sewer, stormwater, electric, and gas systems. This is the second phase of the Crane Iron Works redevelopment project that began with the borough’s purchase of the site in 2013. This phase will enable the development of residential and commercial uses.
“I’m proud to have worked with the Catasauqua community and the governor to secure the funding needed for the project at the former Crane Iron Works site,” said Senator Lisa Boscola. “Redeveloping brownfield land like this honors the rich history of the Lehigh Valley, but also transforms it for a bright future. I’m looking forward to watching this mixed-use project develop.”
Prior to the purchase of the property by the Borough of Catasauqua in 2013, the site had sat mostly vacant for over a decade, adding little value to the borough and discouraging private investment in the surrounding downtown. The borough acquired the site with the goal of restoring the property, bringing jobs and private investment to the community, boosting the local/regional tax base, and improving public services. The initial phase of the development was completed in 2017 and included the construction of a new $10 million building to house the borough offices, fire department, and police station at the site.
Supported through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) program, funding will support critical expansion projects, some of which will provide opportunities for additional economic development.
