32:I[368106,["/_next/static/immutable/chunks/0esgme6slw2os.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/19nxaxx-mivj9.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/1p7t7501p0j9h.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/3rl_muibya0cv.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/3-zaysg56f5ju.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/149wrucsj9n8r.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/0a4naxq_-bdiu.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/2u4-ttthob52_.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/0pq_adx-r2pdq.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/337bw0igxf28d.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/2t52alqztdwh2.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/1dxkzvzx7m6a8.js"],"NewsBodyHtml"] 34:I[918436,["/_next/static/immutable/chunks/0esgme6slw2os.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/19nxaxx-mivj9.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/1p7t7501p0j9h.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/3rl_muibya0cv.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/3-zaysg56f5ju.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/149wrucsj9n8r.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/0a4naxq_-bdiu.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/2u4-ttthob52_.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/0pq_adx-r2pdq.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/337bw0igxf28d.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/2t52alqztdwh2.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/1dxkzvzx7m6a8.js"],"NewsComments"] 35:I[27201,["/_next/static/immutable/chunks/0esgme6slw2os.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/19nxaxx-mivj9.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/1p7t7501p0j9h.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/3rl_muibya0cv.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/3-zaysg56f5ju.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/149wrucsj9n8r.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/0a4naxq_-bdiu.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/2u4-ttthob52_.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/0pq_adx-r2pdq.js","/_next/static/immutable/chunks/337bw0igxf28d.js"],"IconMark"] 33:T143a,

Sept. 23, 2026 -- A comprehensive study on the state of Lackawanna County’s housing stock, commissioned by governmental, business development and real estate organizations, illustrated the need to: rehabilitate, expand and/or construct more affordable housing options across all income levels, modernize regulatory frameworks, create stability and generate new growth.

The analysis, prepared by The Institute, represented a collaborative effort between Lackawanna County, the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and The Greater Scranton Board of Realtors. The study kicked-off in September 2025, with the final version delivered on Aug. 25, 2026.

The report notes that the area offers an affordable cost of living but possesses a lack of available housing due to population decline; limited production and vacancy rates; and aging stock. Other factors that have contributed to the housing issue are: the need for zoning, permitting and title transfer reform; offering creative financing and assistance tools; and developing opportunities for adaptive reuse of vacant buildings.

The study explains that it is extremely important for housing providers, developers, employers and service providers to join forces for zoning reform, infrastructure planning, and new financing programs. It is also imperative to develop new land use and address blight that would help residents secure the “American Dream.”

"Housing is about more than bricks and mortar. It is about whether young families can put down roots here, whether our children can build a future here, and whether working people can still achieve the American Dream in Lackawanna County. This study gives us a roadmap to strengthen our neighborhoods, bring blighted properties back to life, and create new housing opportunities. But a report sitting on a shelf changes nothing. Now we have to act and turn these recommendations into stronger communities, economic growth, and a county where people want to build their future," said Commissioner Bill Gaughan.

“With the final report now complete, Lackawanna County and its partners will use the findings as a foundation for developing a coordinated housing strategy. A key recommendation is to form a countywide housing task force that can bring together municipalities, developers, housing organizations, lenders, employers, and other stakeholders to prioritize recommendations, identify available resources, and track our progress,” explained Commissioner Thom Welby.

“Owning a home is still the “American Dream,” which is the goal of this study. It is imperative for us to build up our current housing stock and build new developments, which give people choices. We need to be able to offer a diverse array of financing incentives tailored to the buyers’ needs and make the permitting process and other measures more user-friendly. The challenge is in front of us. Together we can be successful for everyone’s benefit,” noted Commissioner Chris Chermak.

“The housing challenges detailed in this study are complex and layered, requiring sustained collaboration from community leaders and stakeholders. Fortunately, a strong network of partners is ready to deliver. Ensuring safe and accessible housing will help foster stronger employment, improve student performance, and create safer neighborhoods,” said Jill Avery-Stoss, President & CEO, The Institute.

“Housing affordability and access remain significant economic and community development challenges, not only in Lackawanna County but across the Commonwealth,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “This study provides the data and insight needed to better understand our region’s housing needs and identify informed solutions that support our workforce, businesses and communities.”

“The Greater Scranton Board of Realtors® is committed to being part of the effort and looks forward to helping advance solutions that expand housing opportunities and support long-term, sustainable growth throughout the region. This report gives us an opportunity to align solutions. From better utilizing existing infrastructure and addressing aging housing stock, to encouraging redevelopment, advocating for zoning reform and supporting attainable housing options, there are clear paths forward if we take a coordinated and collaborative approach,” the Scranton Board said in a statement.

This is an excellent opportunity for all of the partners and other agencies to collaborate and improve the area’s housing stock. It is vital for the entire County to grow, expand and create new housing, which will generate economic opportunities and attract new residents.

Read the Lackawanna County Housing Needs Assessment 2026 here.

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