Downtown Wilkes-Barre Vision Statement

In 2010, a renewed Downtown Wilkes-Barre will be the jewel of Northeast Pennsylvania. It will be known as an exciting and vibrant city of the 21st century. With a prosperous and diverse population and a knowledge-based economy supported by the central business district's reputation as a center of higher education, Downtown Wilkes-Barre will be the heart of a proud and progressive community. The excellent quality of life of Downtown Wilkes-Barre will be recognized, and sustained, as a critical component of the economic vitality of the region.

The Downtown will provide a welcoming, attractive, safe and friendly environment where well-maintained and landscaped public amenities compliment a variety of residential housing options comprising an active, downtown neighborhood alongside dynamic, business-filled storefronts, corporate and financial offices, cultural facilities, centers of learning and government service centers. The various districts of the Downtown will energetically celebrate the history of the community and the region, by revitalizing and building upon its historic architecture, its relationship with the river and the natural environment, and its economic evolution. Downtown Wilkes-Barre shall provide for the retail, service and leisure time needs of its residents, workers, students and visitors. A unified and focused partnership of government, business, education and residents of the community will ensure the attainment and maintenance of this vision for the Downtown.

MARCH 26, 2001