“History can be a good teacher,” Reed said. He remarked that the second half of the 1950’s saw the out-migration of businesses, jobs and population in the city. Improvement was not noticeable in the 1960’s, worse in the 1970’s and, in the beginning of the 1980’s, it seemed that the dreaded writing was on the wall. The taxbase was in dismal shape, over 5,500 empty buildings dotted nearly every part of the City, and the City’s government was bankrupt. Much of the remaining real estate had zero market value, the city had lost its credit rating and the Federal government had shut-off all Federal funds because of local mismanagement. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania was now the second most distressed city in America.

But times and attitudes changed for the better. The City is in a much better and secure place, according to Reed. He cited the City’s re-emergence as a regional center for commerce, finance, renewal, culture, the arts, recreation and entertainment, while it remains a hub for transportation and government.

Last year set impressive milestones. A total of 2,084 building permits were issued – the highest number ever recorded in a single year. The total amount of new investment represented by 1998’s permits was $198,385,000. There are now 5,866 businesses on the City’s taxrolls. In contrast, in 1982, there were only 1,908. The taxbase has also taken a big leap. As of the beginning of this year, the City’s taxbase grew to $924 million, the highest level ever recorded in City history.

The list of new and renovated businesses reads like a who’s-who of the up and coming. Included in the Mayor’s list of growing establishments include the new Pennsylvania Place building, Susquehanna Alliance, Pinnacle Health System, The Walnut Street Pastry & Deli, Santo’s Midtown, Roxy’s Café, the Java House, City Grind Coffeehouse & Eatery, The Hub, Maxwell’s Parkside Café, Stock’s on Second and, proudly, MODE. Reed noted that MODE expanded their business operation into a Midtown Market District building which is now being restored..

The City has other pluses going on. Reed said that the crime rate dropped 17.8%, the largest drop in any year on record, with almost all categories of crime decreasing. He also added that employment is up, neighborhood renewal is expanding and, on a lighter note, the Midtown Cinema, the first commercial movie theater to open in the City in over three decades, will begin operations.

The arts are also being nourished by a City that is concerned with its future. This September, the Whitaker Center will be opening its doors and Danzante, a community-based performing arts group, is planning studio and rehearsal space in the now restored McFarland Building.

Last year, Harrisburg became the first community in Pennsylvania to adopt the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District. This unique neighborhood preservation ordinance protects older structures and investments and preserves property values.