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May & June bring celebrations for graduates across the country. Here in Lycoming County, high school and college students are planning their futures-but how many of those plans include staying in our area? A quick search on www.Census.gov shows our population continues to decline:
· Williamsport: 2010- 29, 381/ 2020- 27,754/ 2024 (est)-27, 628
· Lycoming County: 2010- 116,111/ 2020- 114, 188/ 2024 (est)-113, 236
Williamsport is home to two great colleges-Lycoming College & Pennsylvania College of Technology and easy driving distance to Bucknell University, Lock Haven & PSU-where do the graduates go after they walk the stage?
As someone who has moved 14 times in my adult life, Williamsport has much to offer that I did not have easy access to in other places I have lived. The city offers beautiful parks, walkable neighborhoods, recreation (although winter can get a little boring), a great arts and music scene and blessed for the many independent restaurants & small businesses downtown.
I'd like to challenge the landlords and administration of the city & county to take a hard look at a few things that might encourage growth in the general population. Housing is a big issue. The housing stock in this area is old, especially within the city. I appreciate Victorian homes & love driving down Millionaire's Row, but not every home in the city was built to last 100 years.
There are great opportunities in the city to convert existing properties into affordable housing. Two examples: the Old Sheridan Street school and The Williamsport Building. Space is available for new construction, too, as I have found some young people want walkable downtown experiences, modern amenities and a safe environment. Put the "not in my backyard" reactions aside and understand growth can be uncomfortable!
Let's look at improving tourist traffic. Little League is only about 2 weeks out of the year. A stronger promotion of our downtown and Victorian era homes might drive some tourist money-anyone been to Jim Thorpe lately? The place is mobbed!
Sure, it's easy for me to sit at my computer and tell other people how to spend their money. I am a homeowner and understand the costs of property ownership. This letter is not criticism. Having the "will" should be followed by ACTION on ways to attract families, businesses and reinvest in what makes our community special. Let's get growing!
MARY TROMETTER
Williamsport
Submitted by email