North Central CEDS
plan 2026-2030
The region
North Central Pennsylvania is a six-county rural region consisting of Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean, and Potter Counties, served by the North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission.
What is a ceds?
A planning framework that guides regional economic priorities, supports collaboration among public and private stakeholders, and maintains the region’s eligibility for federal economic development assistance through the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
The North Central Pennsylvania Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) Plan 2026–2030 calls on the region to think differently about its future and move beyond incremental change. It establishes a clear strategic direction by defining the goals and priorities that will guide economic development efforts over the coming years. More than a compliance document, this CEDS represents a shared vision for building a stronger, more resilient, and more competitive regional economy.
Building on prior planning efforts, updated data, refreshed analysis, and regional engagement, we reassessed conditions, aligned with EDA investment priorities, and set a clearer, more intentional path forward. Through this process, the CEDS challenges stakeholders to move beyond incremental, project-by-project approaches and instead embrace coordinated regional action to address long-standing structural issues.
Ceds mission & vision
Mission
The North Central Pennsylvania CEDS is a regional roadmap to align people, infrastructure, and investment to support business and industry growth, strengthen communities, and expand economic opportunity across the six-county region.
Vision
North Central Pennsylvania will be a thriving rural region where strong communities, a skilled workforce, and growing business and industry create opportunity, supported by exceptional natural assets and a quality of life that attracts people, retains residents, and gives them a reason to build their future here.
Strategic Direction & Goals
The goals identified in this plan reflect a commitment to building economic resilience. The following priorities will guide regional investment and economic development efforts:
- Business Growth & Industry
- Workforce & Diversified Economy
- Critical Infrastructure & Transportation
- Emerging Technologies & Innovation
- Housing & Community Development
- Public Health
- Quality of Life & Outdoor Recreation
- Regional Collaboration
Action Plan
Each Strategic Priority/Goal includes a set of Action Items that outline the specific steps regional partners will take to advance the strategies and initiatives needed to achieve those goals and move the region toward its Vision and Mission.
Performance Evaluation
To keep the CEDS effective and actionable, North Central Pennsylvania will implement an ongoing evaluation process that measures progress, tracks outcomes, and informs future decision-making.