SCRANTON-- Art studios, recreation trails and industrial-chic renovations are all part of an ambitious plan to turn South Scranton into a hip, artsy, hangout.
Heritage Valley Partners and an architect from DxDempsey presented a plan Thursday night that would transform the future of South Scranton.
The plan centers around a renovation of the Iron Furnaces. The building would become a year-round cultural venue that could also accommodate events like weddings.
The surrounding area would be known as the "Iron District," and would potentially attract artists and tourists.
Planners say a major challenge is the fact that the area is split by the Scranton Central Expressway, but hope that recreation trails could help bridge the gap.
Natalie Gelb, executive director of Lackawanna Heritage Valley said, "Linking the downtown of Scranton, the central city historic district to the South Scranton, Cedar Avenue Corridor is a phenomenal game changer for our region."
Gelb adds that the plan would likely require millions of dollars from multiple grants, but says similar revitalization projects around the country have been successful.
A number of buildings on Cedar Avenue have already been rebuilt or renovated, and neighbors we met like the changes.
Robert Paul lives on Cedar Avenue and is proud of the garden in front of his home. He says improving a neighborhood is similar to caring for his plants and flowers.
"It is like anything, it is how you nurture and what you put into it," Paul added.
Luci Costa owns Elizabeth's Boutique which specializes in sparkling gowns for special occasions.
She says over the past decade, her business has nearly doubled, thanks to the improvements. She is excited so see what is next for the neighborhood.
"It's very good, good for everyone on Cedar Avenue." She smiles, "Big, it is going to be a big deal over here for us South Side."