STROUDSBURG, PA — The Pocono Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Committee reconvened on September 11, bringing together federal, state, municipal and regional leaders to discuss infrastructure investments, housing and development activity, legislative priorities and community initiatives impacting Monroe County and the greater Pocono region.

Legislative updates

Congressman Rob Bresnahan’s office reported that $1.25 million in federal funding has been secured to support construction of a new wastewater treatment facility in Snydersville, along with more than $1 million for Monroe County efforts aimed at reducing drug-related crime and deaths. State Sen. Rosemary Brown’s office reported continued focus on roadway funding, while State Rep. Tarah Probst discussed several legislative priorities, including House Bill 1250 addressing rent increases in manufactured home communities and House Bill 1257 related to property tax relief for disabled Veterans. State Rep. Maureen Madden’s office discussed ongoing outreach efforts focused on educating older adults about scams and an upcoming Veterans expo.

Municipal updates

Municipal leaders reported significant activity involving housing, land use, infrastructure, downtown development and community planning. Middle Smithfield Township is moving forward with its Downtown Development District Plan through a $50,000 Monroe County Local Share Account grant, and is forming a steering committee to guide the process. The township also reported continued residential development, including a 30-unit expansion of the Apartments at Mt. Nebo and a proposed 68-unit apartment project at the former Exploria office building. Smithfield Township continues an extensive review of its land use and development regulations, with nine ordinances adopted so far in 2026 and approximately 13 to 15 expected to advance by year-end. The township is also anticipating its first two submissions under the new High Density Residential Development option, with proposed projects expected to include approximately 160 and 250 units. Stroudsburg Borough reported progress on its five-year Main Street Strategic Plan as it works toward designation through Pennsylvania’s Main Street Matters program. The borough is pursuing funding for downtown streetscape, walkability, public safety and transportation improvements, while work continues on parking infrastructure, a new traffic signal at Broad Street and Park Avenue, and updates to zoning and code regulations. 

Regional partners

Regional partners shared updates on economic development, housing, transportation, workforce development, education and human services. The Pocono Mountains Economic Development Corporation is preparing for the upcoming Local Share Account funding cycle while working to expand participation in the “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing” program, which introduces middle school students to local manufacturing careers and employers. Monroe County’s housing market continued to show rising home values in August. The median sales price reached $347,450, a 13.2 percent increase from $307,000 in August 2025. Active listings remained relatively stable year over year, while the median number of days on market increased slightly from 25 to 26. 

The Pocono Mountains Association of Realtors also reported that a regional housing study is nearing completion, with a final version expected in late September or early October. 

Transportation updates included continued progress on MCTA construction projects and an approximately 15 percent increase in shared ride fares beginning October 1. Passenger rail efforts also continue to advance, with funding identified for bridge, rail and tie improvements along the proposed route. 

Pocono Mountains United Way highlighted several community initiatives, including its September Day of Caring, an effort to prepare 60,000 meals for local food pantries, schools and shelters, and continued support for more than 100 students through the Generation Next program. Partners also reported that 82,900 meals were distributed through Pleasant Valley Ecumenical Network’s summer program. East Stroudsburg University reported enrollment of more than 6,000 students and the opening of its new University Center.

Chamber and community engagement

The Pocono Chamber celebrated the successful 20th anniversary of the Bizzy Awards on September 2, recognizing 10 member businesses, and is preparing for Pickle Me Poconos on September 26 in downtown East Stroudsburg, where more than 150 vendors are expected to participate.

The Public Policy Committee will meet again on October 2 at 9 a.m. to continue discussions on legislative priorities, economic development and issues impacting businesses and communities throughout the Pocono region.