Scranton Tomorrow has initiated a three–phase plan for the development of a dynamic arts community in Scranton, Pennsylvania where artists and their families may live and work. Scranton Tomorrow has engaged the services of Artspace Projects, Inc., the nation’s leading non-profit real estate developer of the arts, to assess the feasibility of the project and assist in pre-development planning.

Data compiled from the Feasibility and Market Study strongly supports the project, confirming the requisite infrastructure as well as the desire and interest of artists to live in and relocate to Scranton. Economically, the plan will provide approximately 30 live/work units and a common space dedicated to artists’ work. Scranton Tomorrow is anticipating an economic impact of $8 returned for every $1 dollar invested.

The project is moving ahead, with a preferred site and architects selected for the project. A steering committee comprised of local artists, residents, and business leaders has been formed to guide, manage and administer the project.

Shown are representatives from Scranton Tomorrow, Artspace and the City of Scranton at the 2005 press conference to announce that Scranton was chosen as an Artspace site. Standing left to right: Chris Doherty, Mayor of Scranton; Carlon Preate, Former President, Scranton Tomorrow Board of Directors; Chris Velasco, V.P. Consulting and New Projects Artspace Projects Inc.; and Paul Colaiezzi, Former Executive Director, Scranton Tomorrow.