Can Power Be Restored in the Electric City? A Case Study of Scranton, Pennsylvania

45 Pages Posted: 7 Jun 2018

See all articles by Eileen Norcross

Eileen Norcross

George Mason University - Mercatus Center

Adam Millsap

Charles Koch Institute

Multiple version iconThere are 2 versions of this paper

Date Written: 10/25/2016

Abstract

Like many former industrial cities, Scranton is struggling. A 75-year population decline has eroded its tax base, and city officials have been unable to control costs—a combination that threatens to bankrupt the city. Scranton was classified as a distressed municipality under Pennsylvania Act 47 in 1992, yet nearly 25 years later its problems remain. This study analyzes the economic, fiscal, and political factors that contributed to Scranton’s decline and that have prevented it from recovering. It is a study in economic and fiscal forensics that provides lessons for other municipalities. We conclude by offering several recommendations to improve Scranton’s finances and economic outlook.

Suggested Citation

Norcross, Eileen and Millsap, Adam, Can Power Be Restored in the Electric City? A Case Study of Scranton, Pennsylvania (10/25/2016). Mercatus Center Paper, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3191320 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3191320

Eileen Norcross (Contact Author)

George Mason University - Mercatus Center ( email )

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HOME PAGE: http://https://www.mercatus.org/eileen-norcross

Adam Millsap

Charles Koch Institute ( email )

Arlington, VA 22201
United States

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