Shamokin community rebuilding workshop to reconvene in February

The workshop will be held by Central Susquehanna Opportunities Inc., FAR, Shamokin Area Businesses for Economic Revitalization, Mother Cabrini Parish, Shamokin Area School District, Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School and the City of Shamokin with support from SEDA-COG, Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

In February 2020, just before the pandemic, dozens of people attended the first Shamokin community rebuilding workshop. Successful initiatives included the formation of Shamokin Community Gardens and construction of Illumination Station along Independence Street, Betsy Kramer, revitalization coordinator for SEDA-COG, said.

“We will discuss all the developments that’s been happening since the last convening, such as the brownfield study and zoning comprehensive plan,” explained Kramer. “On Tuesday night, there will be a small amount of discussion on Act 47. Ryan Hottenstein (Act 47 coordinator for the City of Shamokin) and Mayor Rick Ulrich will be providing a little bit of overview where the city is with Act 47. It’s not a time for questions and answers; rather, it’s an opportunity to tell when the Act 47 meetings will take place.”

Among the anticipated guest speakers are business owners and representatives from various community organizations.

The goal of the workshop is to revitalize Shamokin and its neighborhoods to increase quality of life by enhancing relationships; foster respect for all; strengthen socioeconomic opportunities; create a welcoming environment for residents, businesses, civic/nonprofits and visitors; and foster a vibrant community for individuals, families and youth.

Those attending are asked to register at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, but drop-ins are welcome.