Historic Steel City Forging a Bright Future!

Once a vibrant steel town, Coatesville suffered a massive reduction of jobs and disinvestment when its largest employer ceased operating in the late 1970s. Subsequently, the city has collaborated with local, state, and federal partners to emerge from decades of decline to develop a new and vibrant urban center. A new train station, currently under construction, will expand commuter rail to the city and a recently launched tech incubator will attract and support entrepreneurs. Other development efforts include Qualified Opportunity Zones, while funding for parks and infrastructure are improving public health, aesthetics, walkability, and recreation.

Witness the station construction, streetscape improvements, small-business incubators, flexible work spaces, new restaurants and businesses, and renovated parks with nature-based play elements. Understand how tourism plays a role in revitalization by visiting the National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum, where steel for the World Trade Center was made and “trees” from the WTC site now reside.

Learn how diverse initiatives — using federal programs and funds, incubating small businesses, equitably improving infrastructure and transportation, and promoting tourism — all contribute to holistic, long-term efforts to improve the quality of life for all residents and achieve a sustainable, healthy, and vital community.

Only short walks are required.