Regional engagement Process
Ensuring the ceds reflects the priorities of the region
The North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission coordinated the engagement process, which involved local governments, industry leaders, workforce partners, educational institutions, community organizations, and regional stakeholders.
Engagement was further supported through CEDS Committee working groups, which provided focused input on key topic areas, helped evaluate regional needs, and contributed to the development of strategies and action items. These working groups ensured that the plan reflects both broad regional input and subject-matter expertise across priority areas.
SWOT ANAlysis
A traditional SWOT approach (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) was used to identify structural challenges, including workforce constraints, infrastructure limitations, housing shortages, and demographic trends.
The SWOT framework also guided forward-looking discussions focused on regional assets, emerging opportunities, and shared aspirations for the future of North Central Pennsylvania.
REgional survey
Input from an online regional survey with over 340 responses directly informed the SWOT analysis by identifying key strengths, challenges, and opportunities from residents and stakeholders across the region.
Together, these approaches provided a balanced, data-informed perspective that shaped the strategic direction of the CEDS.
stakeholder meetings
Regional engagement also included consultation with county and municipal officials, private sector leaders, economic development organizations, workforce development agencies, educational institutions, and transportation partners. Feedback was gathered through regional meetings, stakeholder discussions, and coordination with existing regional planning efforts.
Next Generation Survey
To ensure that the perspectives of the future workforce were fully represented, the region also conducted a targeted Next Generation survey, which received input from over 120 individuals under the age of 35. Findings from this survey were used to inform strategies related to workforce retention, housing availability, quality of life, and economic opportunity, highlighting the factors that influence decisions to remain in or return to North Central Pennsylvania.
The engagement process also evaluated progress made since the previous CEDS plan. Over the past several years, the region has advanced initiatives that contribute to economic resilience and regional competitiveness, including expanded regional collaboration among counties and municipalities, transportation and mobility planning efforts, investments in broadband and infrastructure, strengthened workforce development partnerships, and growing recognition of outdoor recreation and quality-of-life assets as drivers of economic development.
STAKEHOLDER PRIORITIES
Stakeholder input emphasized the importance of strengthening quality of life to attract and retain residents, support workforce development, and enhance the region’s appeal to visitors. Counties highlighted priorities such as revitalizing downtowns and community centers, expanding outdoor recreation opportunities, improving access to healthcare and essential services, and investing in community infrastructure that supports long-term sustainability. Together, these efforts position North Central Pennsylvania as a region where people choose to live, work, and build their future.
Through this comprehensive engagement process, the CEDS reflects a shared regional understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing North Central Pennsylvania. The priorities identified through stakeholder input provide a strong foundation for the Strategic Direction and Action Plan that will guide economic development efforts across the six-county region over the next five years.
Which areas should be the Region’s top priorities in the 2026-2030 CEDS?
These stakeholder priorities directly informed the strategic goals and action items presented in the CEDS.