Boosting Local Economies: Pennsylvania Officials Focus on Small Businesses in New Cumberland

New Cumberland Mayor Joan Erney expressed her gratitude to Pennsylvania officials for their focus on small businesses during a recent tour of downtown New Cumberland. The tour, led by Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger, highlighted the importance of supporting local businesses in the community.

The tour included visits to several main street businesses in the West Shore borough, such as the West Shore Theater, Hanna’s Ice Cream, Oxford Hall Celtic Gift Shop and Cafe, Semoff’s Barber Shop, and iDesign Plastics. These visits showcased the diverse range of businesses that make up New Cumberland’s local economy.

Local officials emphasized the support that they have received from DCED in recent years and its positive impact on the community. Don Kibler, President of the New Cumberland Borough Council, spoke about how DCED has helped to revitalize commercial corridors across Pennsylvania through programs like Main Street Matters.

In fact, Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget for 2024-25 includes a $25 million increase in funding for this program. This investment is expected to benefit commercial corridors across Pennsylvania and support small businesses like those in New Cumberland.

State officials are planning to visit other counties, including Northampton, Venango, Delaware, Luzerne, and Somerset during Small Business Week to promote shopping at main street businesses and support local economies across the state.