Erie is setting the stage for significant economic growth with the implementation of its City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) program. This initiative is designed to fund development projects within a designated 130-acre zone using local tax dollars. Importantly, the program does not rely on creating new taxes but instead redirects existing local tax revenue to support these efforts.

Brian Polito, the incoming director of the CRIZ Authority, has expressed optimism about the program's potential impact. According to Polito, the CRIZ program could attract up to $750 million in investments over the next 30 years, providing a substantial boost to the local economy.

To ensure the program's success, businesses located within the CRIZ zone are required to file their tax information by June 15. This step is crucial for establishing a revenue baseline, which will help determine the amount of funding available for development projects as revenues increase through the 30-year life of the CRIZ.

Erie CRIZ anticipates a $15-million dollar distribution in the fall of 2026, funding that must be allocated by December 2026.  The authority will spend the summer vetting shovel

In addition to these preparations, a new website, ErieCRIZ.org, is set to launch on April 15. The website will serve as a central hub for information about the program, offering resources and updates for businesses and community members alike. To further engage the businesses in the zone and provide clarity about the initiative, informational sessions are scheduled to take place on April 24 at Hirt Auditorium in the Blasco Library. The sessions are scheduled for 8:30 a.m., 12:00 noon, and 4:00 p.m.

With these steps in motion, Erie is taking a proactive approach to revitalizing its economy and fostering long-term growth through the CRIZ program.