Harrisburg doesn’t have to choose between its neighborhoods and its downtown

Gloria Martin-Roberts, Interim Director of Economic Development and Building and Housing, is aware many argue Harrisburg’s priority should be improving the daily lives of its residents. Almost 30 percent of them live below the poverty line and desperately want a better life for themselves and their children.

Martin-Roberts and Jason Graves, Harrisburg’s Director of Business Development, told PennLive’s Editorial Board at a recent meeting that means creating more affordable housing, more walkable neighborhoods, filling potholes, and paving streets, as well as stimulating small business development in residential areas.

But there’s another argument many think should take precedence – revitalizing Harrisburg’s downtown. These are mostly business and cultural leaders who argue the capital ci