YCEA -10 Year Plan Update

July 15, 2025 – David Gonzalez, Director of Economic Initiatives at the York County Economic Alliance (YCEA), spoke to the York East Rotary Club this week to provide an in-depth look at several major initiatives shaping York County’s future. His presentation focused on the Countywide Housing Action Plan, the five-year milestone of the York County Trail Towns Program, and an update to the 10-Year Economic Action Plan. Gonzalez began with an overview of the Countywide Housing Study, a comprehensive research effort aimed at understanding housing needs across all municipalities in York County. The study has led to the creation of a Housing Action Plan, which outlines targeted strategies to increase housing affordability, support workforce housing, and reduce barriers to development. Gonzalez emphasized the importance of aligning housing initiatives with economic growth, ensuring that communities remain livable and accessible for all income levels. “York County can’t grow its economy without addressing the availability and affordability of housing,” Gonzalez explained. “This plan is about making sure we build for the future while preserving what makes our communities strong today.” The presentation also marked the five-year anniversary of the York County Trail Towns Program, a regional revitalization effort that connects outdoor recreation, tourism, and small business development in communities along the Heritage Rail Trail and other pathways. Gonzalez shared that since the program launched in 2020, Trail Towns like Glen Rock, Seven Valleys, and New Freedom have seen a measurable increase in visitors, new business openings, and improved infrastructure. Finally, Gonzalez previewed the upcoming five-year update to York County’s 10-Year Economic Action Plan, originally launched in 2020. The updated plan will continue to guide collaborative efforts around workforce development, entrepreneurship, infrastructure investment, and equitable growth. The YCEA is working closely with public and private partners to ensure the revised plan reflects the current needs and opportunities of the county.