Project Update
Join us for a virtual Thriving Communities Project Update on Friday, May 23, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. This session is open to the public and will highlight recent developments and future plans supporting community growth.
The agenda includes:
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Survey Results Presentation: Dr. Craig Colistra will share findings from the 2024 Mpact Delegation Survey.
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Pottstown Station Area Project Plan: Andrew Svekla, Manager of the Office of Smart Growth at the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC), will present the proposed planning process for the Pottstown Station and how community stakeholders can contribute to creating a vision for the future station area.
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Collaborate Grant Projects and Funding Pursuits Update: Consultant Meredith Sossman will provide an update on local Thriving Communities grant initiatives.
The meeting invitation and link will also be emailed directly to individuals subscribed to the Thriving Communities News list.
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Friday, May 23, 2025
11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.
Transforming Lives Through Inclusive Development
The Thriving Communities Program (TCP) is an initiative supported by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) designed to improve the quality of life for residents in Pottstown, PA and 63 other communities across the country. This two-year technical assistance grant focuses on addressing the unique challenges faced by our community, particularly those historically underserved. By fostering Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD), we aim to create accessible infrastructure, enhance community engagement, and promote sustainable economic growth. Through collaboration with local leaders and organizations, we seek to empower residents, ensuring that everyone benefits from the revitalization of our neighborhoods.
Addressing Inequities
in Our Community
Pottstown is a diverse, post-industrial community with a rich history, yet it faces significant disparities in income, homeownership, and access to resources. With nearly 30% of the population identified as minorities and a median household income of about $53,000, many residents struggle to achieve financial stability and homeownership. The Thriving Communities Program directly addresses these inequities. By implementing strategies to increase housing affordability and improve economic opportunities. By focusing on transit-oriented development, we aim to create vibrant neighborhoods that are not only livable but also economically sustainable.
Join Us in Shaping Pottstown’s Future
We invite you to get involved with the Thriving Communities Program and help us shape the future of Pottstown. Your participation can make a significant difference! Whether you want to attend community gatherings, provide feedback, or support our initiatives through donations, every contribution counts.
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Creating Opportunities for All
Potential Development Locations
The Thriving Communities Program (TCP) is committed to bridging the gap between underserved residents and the resources they need to thrive.
Key goals include:
- Economic Equity & Workforce Development: Enhance job opportunities and access to resources for all residents.
- Community Engagement Hub Creation: Establish a platform for residents to share their voices, concerns, and ideas.
- Affordable Housing Supply Assurance: Promote initiatives that increase affordable housing options in Pottstown and surrounding areas.
Understanding the Impact
The 2023 Pottstown Community Survey assesses the health, well-being, and quality of life of residents, especially in underserved areas across 6 census block groups. It identifies needs in housing, employment, and healthcare, guiding local initiatives and amplifying residents' voices in decision-making. Significant inequities are among residents that have lived in the study area for 3-10 years.
For this group, the homeownership rate is just 30.8% and on average, the home value in the survey area is $158,150. Meanwhile, Montgomery County boasts a 71.7% homeownership rate, with a median property value of $382,300. In addition, this group of Pottstown residents experience poverty at a rate of poverty 27%, as compared to just 6.6% across the county.
Median Household Income
Learning From
Other Communities
Fredericksburg, Texas:
- A $45 million project to reinstate passenger rail spurred mixed-use development and pedestrian upgrades.
- Community input shaped plans through public workshops and engagement sessions. Equity was prioritized by borough and economic leaders to support inclusive growth and local business.
Northfield, Minnesota:
- A $30 million initiative revitalized the River Arts District (“RADTIP”) with greenways, retail, and cultural spaces. The RADTIP improved access to transit, walkability, and connectivity between neighborhoods. Public investment supported economic growth while preserving arts, affordability, and access for all.
