the engine driving economic growth - lehigh valley
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YeaRS10
attRaCteD225 CoMpanIeS
InVeStMentSIn puBlIC anD pRIVate pRoJeCtS
$2 BIllIon
FInanCInG aSSIStanCe$252 MIllIon In loanS
JoBS27,400
HelpInG to IMpRoVe eConoMIC GRoWtH
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HELPING TO IMPROVE ECONOMIC GROWTH Thank you for making LVEDC the dynamic economic development leader it is today.
LVEDC has a unique investment value for our region and thanks you for your investment in its mission.
We understand that economic development is ultimately about creating an outstanding economy through jobs
and private- and public-sector investments that will support a vibrant quality of life and community for our
Lehigh Valley citizens.
LVEDC is the only single agency anywhere in the Lehigh Valley that provides the array of dynamic economic
development services. Our two counties, three cities, investors, volunteers and collaborative organizations
have helped our region be a model for Pennsylvania.
This understanding stems from our ability to provide strong economic development leadership. Our agency is
comprised of a seasoned team of professionals and board leaders who work closely with businesses to deliver
personalized solutions to their challenges, allowing businesses to focus on what they do best: their business.
We are proud of the programs and incentives we provide to help advance the continued growth and retention of
jobs and capital needs of the Lehigh Valley’s economic community. These services benefit our region in many ways:
• Quality Jobs: Every time LVEDC attracts, retains or helps businesses expand, it creates new jobs.
• Financing: LVEDC administers loans that help worthy enterprises create employment with the
opportunity for personal and professional growth.
• Business Growth and Retention: As a steward of sustainable economic growth, we partner with
individual and collective organizations to provide the capital, strategy and execution of their long-
and short-term goals, so they are more likely to stay here.
• Marketing: LVEDC understands the power of presentation regionally and nationally – this raises the
significance of the Lehigh Valley’s business climate.
How does this impact you? The additional tax revenue generated by economic development investments
directly correlates to improved infrastructure that is woven into the fabric of the community. The economic
vitality of our municipalities and citizens is thereby improved.
Thanks again for your leadership and support.
LETTER fROM THE CHaIRMaN aNd CEO
Donald Bernhard Philip B. MitmanChairman of the Board President & CEO
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Cultivate Business in the lehigh valley
“Increase efforts to retain existing businesses while growing new companies, and maintain attraction of
target industries that enhance the vitality of the Lehigh Valley economy.”
Attracting new companies is one facet of successful economic development. Enhancing the competitiveness
of existing businesses is another. LVEDC does both through a probing business retention and expansion
program that accumulates, analyzes and addresses information that ultimately increases a company’s
competitiveness. Our Finance Department makes dreams a reality for qualified companies by infusing our
region with much-needed capital.
In 2011, when one of the world’s best-known companies pitched an idea, LVEDC stepped up to the
plate and hit one out. Coca-Cola’s rich history was created in part through its vision of the future.
When its future included expanding its Lehigh Valley bottling plant in Upper Macungie Township
to include a state-of-the-art hot fill line to make Vitamin Water, PowerAde, Fuze beverages and other
non-carbonated products, LVEDC helped fund construction by securing a cool $1.25 million
Infrastructure Development Program loan.
LVEDC also smoothed out some bumps with the township for the expansion of a roadway adjacent to
the plant and for the enlargement of the wastewater system as a result of the expansion. This dynamic
partnership means new jobs in 2012 when the line is expected to be fully functional.
LVEDC 5-YEAR Strategic Plan
StRateGIC pRIoRItY a
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advanCe sustainaBle development themes
“Enhance the Lehigh Valley’s reputation for sustainable economic development by promoting urban
redevelopment, the reuse of brownfield sites and the attraction, creation, retention and expansion of
alternative energy businesses.”
For more than a decade, LVEDC’s Lehigh Valley Land Recycling Initiative has led the way in
transforming the region’s former industrial sites again into viable centers of commerce. A perfect
example of LVLRI’s success is Highline Imports in Easton, located at the former Coretec site.
In 1999, LVLRI helped the City of Easton and Coretec clean up and properly close the former railroad
roundhouse on the site through Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s (PADEP’s)
Special Industrial Area Program. After more than a decade of inactivity at the site, a new buyer, Highline
Imports, purchased the property. Again, with the help of PADEP, LVLRI was able to help Highline
Imports reinstate the remediation requirements and transfer the project to a Small Business Administration
504 loan program. Thanks to LVEDC’s knowledge of the site and long-standing ties to PADEP, the process
was expedited and Highline Imports received the highly technical support it deserved.
In 2010, LVEDC coordinated a regional proposal for a $3.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. LVEDC was awarded one of only 29 Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grants from U.S. HUD. This grant has already furthered the region’s reputation for sustainability. Over the three-year implementation of this grant, LVEDC and the Lehigh Valley will continue to move toward becoming a sustainable community.
LVEDC 5-YEAR Strategic Plan
StRateGIC pRIoRItY B
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IntensIfy RegIonal PaRtneRshIPs
“Leverage the Lehigh Valley’s reputation for regional cooperation by building on its success in
forging agreement on economic development priorities.”
The Lehigh Valley’s urban cores have faced numerous challenges, including residential and
business suburban flight and a deteriorating tax base paired with rising expenditures and lack of
development opportunities.
Revitalizing the region’s cities remains a priority and spurred our support of the Borough Business
Revitalization Program (BBRP).
Serving the communities of Alburtis, Bangor, Bath, Catasauqua, Coopersburg, Hellertown and Pen
Argyl, the program uses two full-time coordinators and a part-time supervisor, who work to revitalize
their commercial core through a four-point approach that targets design, organization, promotion and
economic restructuring. BBRP is a partnership among various public and private entities that is now
funded in part by LVEDC.
Boost InnovatIon and talent
LVEDC 5-YEAR Strategic Plan
STRaTEGIC PRIORITy C
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Boost InnovatIon and talent“Develop programs and strategies to attract and retain entrepreneurs and young professionals and
assist start-up and small businesses that bring a diverse workforce to the Lehigh Valley.”
For seven years the Southside Bethlehem Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ) has helped bring
cutting-edge businesses to the city. Working with Lehigh University, Northampton Community
College and additional partners, the KIZ emboldens entrepreneurial prospects to develop and
grow their businesses by providing the tools they need to do so.
LVEDC has played a lead role in the KIZ and has encouraged the City of Bethlehem’s development
of a new technology center, known as The Pi Center. Standing for “Partnership for Innovation,”
The Pi Center features several former KIZ companies including Element ID, Viddler, Adept
Packaging and rVibe.
During 2011, the Innovation, Talent and Entrepreneurship (ITE) Committee continued to
advance programs and strategies that attract and retain entrepreneurs and young professionals
and assist start-up and small businesses that bring a diverse workforce to our Lehigh Valley. This
vision manifested itself in a probing document entitled the “Gap Analysis,” which identified needed
entrepreneurial services and programs and also in Drive, an ambitious web portal devoted solely to the
entrepreneurial community that is a conduit of information and resources. The ITE Committee also
crafted a Lehigh Valley-wide student internship program, designed with the assistance of nine
participating colleges and universities, that will begin placing students in the spring 2012 semester.
LVEDC 5-YEAR Strategic Plan
STRaTEGIC PRIORITy d
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CReate the CaPaCIty to suCCeed“Reinforce the ability to achieve our mission by strengthening leadership, regional partnerships,
stabilizing funding and optimizing investor services.”
LVEDC depends on partnerships with our public- and private-sector investors, local nonprofits, the
region’s three cities and many municipalities, and state and federal agencies to benefit the Lehigh Valley.
Thanks to these partnerships, we provide solutions to the issues facing businesses and job creation
throughout the Lehigh Valley. We provide them with access to the assistance they need in a way no
other local organization can do.
Thanks to our coalition of partners that showcase regionalism, LVEDC is able to obtain valuable state
and federal grants that allow us to foster economic development priorities. One example of that is the
reclamation of brownfield sites.
In 2010, LVLRI was awarded a $1 million three-year grant from the United States Environmental
Protection Agency to perform the cleanup planning, assessment and redevelopment of these sites:
FL Smidth, Thomas Iron Works, Coretec, Slate Belt YMCA, Wyandotte Cleaners, Neuweiler Brewery,
the Simon Silk Mill and four affordable housing projects with Valley Housing Development Corporation.
Approximately one-third of the grant, $330,219, has been utilized to date for the redevelopment of the
Lehigh Valley brownfields.
Our Partners for Regional Economic Performance (PREP) initiative aims to streamline the services
provided by the region’s many economic development entities. By working together to review and
evaluate opportunities, we create greater efficiencies in program delivery, client management and
collaboration on new joint initiatives. This results in better customer service for companies and will
ultimately lead to the retention, expansion and attraction of more high-quality jobs in the Lehigh Valley.
We value our investor and private-sector funding, as it is critical to LVEDC’s continued success. In 2011,
we added 52 new investors and $72,110 in new investor pledges and in-kind contributions.
LVEDC 5-YEAR Strategic Plan
STRaTEGIC PRIORITy E
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how we helPIn 2011, our Regional Development efforts
assisted 100 prospective companies and
businesses. These attraction, expansion and
retention efforts resulted in 1,194 jobs being created and retained in our region.
But what does that mean? What role did LVEDC
play in helping a company from outside the area
relocate here? How did we help an existing Lehigh
Valley company stay here in order to retain jobs or
help them expand in order to create more jobs?
HERE’S HOW WE dO WHaT WE dO:1. Through our network of brokers, site
selectors and our own development team,
we seek companies that want to relocate to
the Lehigh Valley or companies looking to
expand their current operations – ones that
have greater potential but might be held back
due to limitations.
2. During an initial meeting, we ascertain the
company’s needs and determine its interests.
Does it need help with financing? Is it a
minority- or women-owned business? Would
it consider redeveloping a brownfield? Is it a
start-up business that needs support from
the ground up?
3. Once we have determined its needs, we work
closely with the company to provide a range of
services, from economic development incentive
financing programs and industrial site reuse funds
to workforce incentives and development grants.
4. Next, we work with the company to apply for
grants or financing, select a site and coordinate
approvals with local municipalities.
5. Finally, we see everything through until the
very end, offering consultation and advice until
its relocation is complete or until its expansion
is finished.
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RegIonal hIghlIghtsAs LVEDC continues to implement our Strategic
Plan amid a challenging economic backdrop, our
two-county, three-city region continues to see
substantial investment, growth and development.
Our efforts to market the region to brokers,
developers, site consultants and other target
audiences resulted in the attraction of companies
like Daiichi Sankyo, Inc., Avantor Performance
Materials and United Bank Card, while our efforts
to assist existing businesses resulted in 25 projects financed and 70 business retention visits.
A prime example of LVEDC’s comprehensive
portfolio of services at work can be realized
in the relocation of Avantor Performance
Materials. When it wanted a larger, more
modern workspace that would energize its
operations, the Lopatcong Township, N.J.,
company selected Upper Saucon Township for
its relocation plans. The net result means about
200 new jobs for our region.
The year ended with an announcement that has
potential to change the Lehigh Valley’s future.
In November, LVEDC, serving as the lead applicant,
was awarded a historic $3.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to develop the Lehigh Valley
Sustainable Plan. This project will enhance the
region’s long-term livability and sustainability by
addressing economic and social distress in the
three cities.
The Lehigh Valley Sustainability Consortium consists
of 11 public and nonprofit entities, which will work
together to create a sustainable Lehigh Valley by
implementing the Comprehensive Plan – The Lehigh
Valley … 2030. This initiative will positively impact
the quality of life for all of the region’s residents
by focusing on an economic development vision,
affordable housing policies and public transportation.
Hearings will seek public input.
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2011 unaudited eXpenses2011 unaudited Revenue
PROJECTS COMPLETED IN LEHIGH VALLEY DURING 2011
RADETEC
Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.
Jacobson
WindKits, LLC
Schutt Sports
Avantor Performance Materials
United Bank Card
Diasol
Thermo Fisher
Coll Materials
Rehrig Penn
Ballan & Son’s
Bazzini Company
Palram
SunOpta
Southside Bethlehem KIZ
total:
CoMpanY
Hanover Township**
Bethlehem Township**
Lower Macungie Township*
Upper Macungie Township*
Palmer Township**
Upper Saucon Township*
Hanover Township*
Hanover Township*
East Allen Township**
South Whitehall Township*
Glendon**
Allentown*
Upper Macungie Township*
Weisenberg Township*
Upper Macungie Township*
Bethlehem, City of**
MunICIpalItY
Manufacturing/HQ
Pharmaceutical Packaging
Warehouse/Distribution
Manufacturing
Helmet Reconditioning
HQ
HQ/Service Center
Manufacturing
Warehouse/Distribution
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Entrepreneur
FaCIlItY uSe
Attraction
Attraction
Attraction
Attraction
Retention
Attraction
Attraction
Attraction
Expansion/Attraction
Attraction/Retention
Attraction
New
Attraction
Expansion
New
Expansion
pRoJeCt tYpe
Symbols: * Lehigh County; **Northampton County
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82
40
50
150 (retained)
200
175
15
80
70
23
10
30
40
107
8
1094
JoBS CReateD
10
omwoB/ftZ/southside Bethlehem KiZ
oFFICe oF MInoRItY anD WoMen-oWneD BuSIneSSeS (oMWoB)Amid a challenging economic climate, OMWOB
supported 156 entrepreneurs and helped to
establish businesses that created or retained 72 jobs at a myriad of establishments ranging from
business and infrastructure planning to financial
aid. We assisted more than 50 inner-city businesses
to revitalize our city centers. And, the region
welcomed seven new businesses as a result.
KeYStone InnoVatIon Zone (KIZ)The Southside Bethlehem Keystone Innovation
Zone’s goal is simple: Multiply technology
and economic development activities, creating
economic stability and transforming Southside
Bethlehem, and the entire Lehigh Valley, into a
vibrant forward-thinking community.
In 2011, the KIZ continued its successful track
record of developing partnerships that help
entrepreneurs thrive. Thanks to $100,000 in grants
from the Pennsylvania Department of Community
and Economic Development and contributions
totaling $165,000 from KIZ members, we were
able to expand programming, while providing
more internships and technology transfer grants.
LVEDC’s partnership with 15 Lehigh Valley
leaders like Lehigh University, Northampton
Entrepreneurs run the gamut, but all want success. During 2011, LVEDC leveraged our resources for
their benefit.
Through the Office of Minority and Women-Owned Business (OMWOB) and the Southside
Bethlehem Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ), LVEDC assists entrepreneurs with capital, counseling
and connections. We help them lead the way with financing for new innovations generated in an ideas
incubator, site selection services for the best place to locate their new business and certifications that
allow them to get ahead in their fields.
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Community College and various business support
organizations is what allowed us to serve 28 active
companies this year. We have worked with 45 new
start-up companies and early-stage businesses
since the KIZ was started in 2004. These clients
are on track to generate nearly $18 million in sales
in 2011. A $90,000 Technology Transfer grant
was extended to six clients, including our ninth
student-owned business. With the support of the
City of Bethlehem, a new commercialization
center called The Pi Center will open inside the
KIZ in early 2012 and is expected to be fully
occupied by tenants that are either current
or former KIZ companies.
fOREIGN TRadE ZONE (fTZ)Another example of how LVEDC leads the way
for the region’s economic development is with the
creation of Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) #272 in
2007. This federal program helps Lehigh Valley
companies involved in international trade to
reduce or eliminate the negative U.S. tariff
impacts on the products they use, thus allowing
these companies to stay competitive against
foreign businesses.
In March 2011, the FTZ board approved a
request for a Subzone with Manufacturing
Authority for Grundfos Pump Corporation,
which LVEDC assisted the company in filing
the previous year. LVEDC also assisted Piramal
Critical Care in submitting the same request
to the board in August 2010.
To make the FTZ even more beneficial for the
region, LVEDC has prepared an application to
the board requesting a change to the Alternative
Site Framework, which will reduce start-up costs
and waiting times for companies applying for
FTZ benefits. Approval is anticipated in early 2012.
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lvlRIRedeveloping one of the Lehigh Valley’s many brownfield
sites is no easy task. For 13 years, Lehigh Valley Land
Recycling Initiative (LVLRI) endeavored to expedite the
process by serving those developers with the foresight to
see the incredible value that these properties hold.
In 2011, LVLRI saw large projects in the region’s three
major cities come to completion after years of effort, as
smaller projects in Catasauqua, Hellertown, Bangor and
Wind Gap move forward.
At the 2011 National Brownfields Conference, LVLRI was
singled out in the keynote address by U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson for the
progress the region is making toward sustainability.
LVLRI staff members were also featured in a panel
workshop at the conference about the innovative
redevelopment of the former Bethlehem Steel site.
PADEP Secretary Michael Krancer visited the Lehigh
Valley in August for a brownfield tour and meeting
with LVLRI. We also hosted an educational program
on stormwater permits for key brownfield sites, which
featured the PADEP Chief of Division of Waterways,
Wetlands and Stormwater Management Ken Murin.
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LVLRI continues to garner state and national
recognition for its proactive, regional approach
to brownfield redevelopment. The unique
partnership among Northampton and Lehigh
counties and LVEDC is a model of how regional
efforts can be highly successful. An example of
this success was the statewide recognition the
program received as the recipient of the 2011
Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence
for its role in balancing economic growth with
the environmental health of the Lehigh Valley.
LVLRI and LVEDC couldn’t be leaders in the
redevelopment of brownfield properties without
the support of our partners, which include
Northampton County, Lehigh County and the
United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Support from the region’s three major cities,
LVLRI Advisory Committee and its chairman
is invaluable as we continue to preserve our
environment for future generations.
KEy PROjECT HIGHLIGHTS INCLudE:Coretec, Easton, Northampton County – This
project is an example of how LVLRI’s services and
support are needed more than once by a particular
property. Back in 1999, this former industrial site
was one of the first projects supported by LVLRI.
We originally helped the company and city submit
the site into the PADEP Special Industrial Area
Program. After falling vacant for several years,
the property became bank owned in 2010 before
securing a new buyer in 2011. LVLRI worked
with the buyer, Highline Imports, and PADEP
to ensure that the agreements for the Special
Industrial Area Program were put back into place
so the property could be redeveloped.
Calo Building, Allentown, Lehigh County –
Located along the Lehigh River waterfront and
vacant for more than 30 years, this large concrete
and steel building was demolished and remediated
in early 2011. LVLRI coordinated the use of
Lehigh County’s EPA Cleanup RLF grant for
the remediation and demolition work costing
approximately $400,000.
Karl Stirner, Arts Trail, Easton, Northampton County – Not all of LVLRI’s projects involved the
remediation of land for future commercial use.
This particular project involved environmental
cleanup along the Bushkill Creek, required for
the development of a new walking trail. LVLRI
provided the city with a Phase II Environmental
Site Assessment that led to the proper closure for
some portions of the trail.
East Allen State Dairy Farm, East Allen Township, Northampton County – Using funding provided
by the county, the property’s lessee, First Regional
Compost Authority, demolished some of the old
buildings to remediate lead paint. This will allow
the authority to expand operations and service
more clients. LVLRI assisted the county and
property owners by acting as project manager and
providing technical assistance.
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finanCing pRojeCts
When constructing the big picture, financing is
often the subject most out of focus. But LVEDC
can help credit-worthy businesses create their
business masterpiece. Equipped with an arsenal
of financing tools, we assist businesses of all sizes
gain access to more than a dozen loan programs.
Our partnerships with financial institutions,
nonprofits and the state and federal governments
help us create financing opportunities that offer
low-interest loans for the purchase of property,
equipment and even working capital.
• In 2011, 28 project loans were written with a total value of more than $26 million that leveraged projects worth about $238 million. This created 1,783 jobs and retained another 872.
2011 HIGHlIGHtS InCluDe:• A Tax Increment Financing District was created
to support the West Hill Business Center,
a 230-acre industrial park being developed
by Hillwood Development Company, LLC
in western Lehigh County. LVEDC worked
with Lehigh County Industrial Development
Authority, Northwestern Lehigh School
District, Weisenberg Township and Lehigh
County to create the incentive. The project will
develop 2.3 million square feet of commercial/
industrial space, generate $115 million in private
investments and create up to 1,500 jobs
over 10 years.
• LVEDC’s loans division, in partnership with the
Northampton County New Jobs Corp., Lehigh’s
Economic Advancement Project, Manufacturer’s
Resource Center and Lehigh University’s Small
Business Development Center, completed work
on a $1 million application for the Partnerships
for Regional Economic Performance Program.
It is a commonwealth economic development
funding program focused on developing
innovative relationships between economic
development service providers in Pennsylvania.
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Charles Chrin Companies
Gentis Restaurant Corporation dba Prime Steak House
Famous Smokeshop PA, Inc.
Scot Lubricants of PA, Inc.
Loikits Industrial Services, Inc.
Bethlehem Technik, LLC
ALEDCO, Inc.
DLH, Inc.
Northwestern Physical Therapy & Fitness, Inc.
Applied Separations, Inc.
Rheangel, LLC dba The Goddard School
Ecopax, LLC
Driven By Disasters, Inc. dba Servproof Easton, Bethlehem & Whitehall
Lightweight Manufacturing, Inc.
Samuel Adams Pennsylvania Brewery Company
Austin’s Auto Service
Highline Imports, LLC
The Coca-Cola Company
INetU, Inc.
Performance Coatings International Laboratories, LLC
Everson Tesla, Inc.
Musclemaker Grille of PA, LLC
Sanctuary by Michael Perry Salon & Day Spa
West Hills Business Center
American Millwork & Cabinetry, Inc.
Dent Design Hardware, LTD
Stephens Funeral Home
COMPaNy
Palmer Twp.
Hanover Twp.
Forks Twp.
Northampton
Coplay
Northampton
Hanover Twp.
Bethlehem, City of
Heidelberg Twp.
Allentown
Bethlehem Twp.
Forks Twp.
Allentown
Allentown
Upper Macungie Twp.
Bethlehem, City of
Easton
Upper Macungie Twp.
Hanover Twp.
Bangor
Lower Nazareth
Hanover Twp.
Easton
Weisenberg
Emmaus
Lower Nazareth Twp.
Upper Macungie Twp.
MuNICIPaLITy
Northampton
Northampton
Northampton
Northampton
Lehigh
Northampton
Lehigh
Northampton
Lehigh
Lehigh
Northampton
Northampton
Lehigh
Lehigh
Lehigh
Lehigh
Northampton
Lehigh
Lehigh
Northampton
Northampton
Lehigh
Northampton
Lehigh
Lehigh
Northampton
Lehigh
COuNTy
IDP
SBA 504
PIDA
PIDA
SBA 504
SBA
SBFF
PMBDA
SBA
PIDA
SBA 504
SBA
SBA
SBFF
IFIP
PMBDA
SBA 504
IDP
SBA 504
SBA 504
PIDA
PMBDA
PMBDA (state)
TIF
SBFF
PIDA
SBA
PROGRaM
Closed
Closed
Approved
Closed
Closed
Approved
Closed
Closed
Approved
Closed
Closed
Approved
Approved
Closed
Converted
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approval Pending
Approved
Approved
PROjECT STaTuS
LVEDC 2011 FinanCing ProjECts summary
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We’re Lehigh Valley Economic Development
Corporation in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania.
Our mission is to help grow all types of
businesses. Turn to us for help with everything
from finding the right location, getting loans,
accurate demographic research and cutting
government and corporate red tape. We’re
Lehigh Valley’s premier business resource—the
first place to call when you want to locate and
grow your company here. Let’s talk soon.
Call 610-266-6775 or visit LehighValley.org.
BUSINESS SUCCESS DEPENDS ON KNOWING THE RIGHT PEOPLEIN EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA.
LET US INTRODUCE OURSELVES.
EcoTech Marine
A nurturing current.Unless it’s the fish, no one understands the need for an ocean-like flow in aquariums better than EcoTech Marine. The Bethlehem company’s advanced VorTech pumps simulate the broad, gentle flow of the ocean’s water that coral reef aquariums need to thrive. The company’s pumps have been winning enthusiastic converts among aquarium aficionados since its establishment in 2005.
In the Keystone Innovation Zone, EcoTech Marine has found a similarly nurturing environment. LVEDC assisted the company in navigating the sometimes complex currents of enterprise growth. “Lehigh Valley Economic Development helped us find grants to start the company,” said Patrick Clasen, director of finance for EcoTech Marine. “They helped us get into our building and obtain financing through state programs. They showed us how to move past every roadblock we’ve encountered.”
EcoTech Marine is a true American success story, born from the nucleus of desire, genius and talent. These graduate students from Lehigh University started with nothing and have become an eminently profitable company.
South Bethlehem Greenway
From brownfields to greenway.
An abandoned railroad right-of-way in Bethlehem has been revitalized as a park and part of the South Bethlehem Greenway. A 34-acre parcel that once belonged to Norfolk Southern now connects downtown neighborhoods to public recreation and greenspace. The greenway also links to other scenic elements of Pennsylvania’s Rails-to-Trails network beyond the city limits.
LVLRI, which is funded primarily by Northampton and Lehigh counties and is an initiative of LVEDC, helped Bethlehem acquire funding from PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Additional support was provided to develop an essential site assessment that saved the city $50,000. “Through a consultant they hired, the LVLRI completed the Phase II report we had to have,” said Darlene Heller, the city’s director of planning and zoning. “That gave us the information we needed to move forward — and the clearance to do so.”
Kitchen Magic
Renovating the renovators.
Kitchen Magic restores and rejuvenates tired kitchens and bathrooms. When its work was limited by facilities that were too small and improperly configured, the company called on LVEDC and found the help to keep growing.
Seeing the perfect potential in a 35-year-old Nazareth property was only the first step. The space needed to be reconfigured into a manufacturing plant and office space that could support Kitchen Magic’s work in seven states. LVEDC shepherded Kitchen Magic’s application for a $1.8 million SBA 504 loan. Brett Bacho, a member of the family that owns the company, said LVEDC rendered essential assistance in securing necessary capital. “They were instrumental in providing us with access to special finance programs. They focused us here, and it became a smart choice to make the move to Lehigh Valley.”
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for all
growthEconomic growth for all.We’re Lehigh Valley Economic Development and our mission is straightforward enough: promoting regional economic prosperity. We accomplish that by working with all types and sizes of businesses to help them get started, relocate here, grow and stay in the area. LVEDC offers a wide variety of services and resources to help businesses succeed, including financing, real estate services, site location assistance, workforce training, technology support, economic data and much more. If your business needs help relocating, starting or expanding in Lehigh Valley, call us first. We’re the region’s premier business resource.
All the business resources you need under one very big roof.
One business contact you’ll be happy you made.
2158 Avenue C, Bethlehem, PA 18017610-266-6775 | LehighValley.org
MaRketIng suMMaRyLVEDC continued to brand the Lehigh Valley to
the region and nation as a place to do business
through various electronic and print outlets,
videos and media through a year of transition.
At the beginning of the year, LVEDC implemented
and improved Search Engine Optimization to
drive traffic, develop analytic tools and measure
key entry points to LVEDC’s web site. We
produced collateral materials that highlight the
region, which are used by LVEDC with prospects.
Through news releases, the LVEDC blog and
e-news blasts, LVEDC communicated our success
stories while keeping the focus on where it should
be: the businesses. LVEDC also hosted events
such as the Annual Meeting, Mid-Year Meeting,
Legislative Governmental Relations Breakfast
Series and others that show the value of the
organization not only to investors, but to the public.
Our commitment to implementing the Strategic
Plan was furthered by creating the Drive
web portal, a site for entrepreneurs and small
business owners that will serve as a resource
database. The marketing team also continued to
seek and produce grants that allow LVEDC to
help businesses reach their potential and, more
importantly, create jobs that improve your quality
of life in the Lehigh Valley.
just a few of the prominent people
ready to help you build your business.
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2011 LVEDC INVESTOR CONTRIbUTIONS
Continuous Financial ImprovementCoordinated Health SystemsCorporate Environments rCraighead Associates, LLCCrayola LLCCrystal SignaturesCURA HospitalityDerby Supply Chain Solutions DeSales UniversityDesignPoint, Inc.D’Huy EngineeringDietrick Group, LLC Duggan & Marcon, Inc.EarthRes Group, Inc. mEastern TimeEaston Area Industrial Land Development Company, Inc.Easton Coach CompanyEco-Tech, Inc.Elk EnvironmentalEmbassy Bank for the Lehigh Valley rEnterprise Systems Partners, Inc.eScott MarketingEssroc Cement Corp.Express Employment Professionals - Northampton CountyfiberAmericaFirst Niagara BankFirst Telecom ServicesFlexLink Systems, Inc.Good Shepherd Rehabilitation NetworkGorski Engineering, IncGray ConnectiveGreater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce rHaines & Kibblehouse, Inc.Hampson, Mowrer, Kreitz Agency, Inc.Handlon Business Resources r dHealthAmericaHighline Imports, LLCHighmark Blue ShieldHillwood Investment PropertiesHistoric Hotel BethlehemHorwith Trucks, Inc.i360 ToursInova Technologies, LLCIntercontinental Distributing, Inc.J & J Affordable & Luxury TransportationJMT Environmental Just Born, Inc.Keystone Consulting Engineers, Inc.King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul, LLCKitchen Magic, Inc.Klein & Hoffman, Inc.Klunk & Millan AdvertisingLafayette CollegeLangan Environmental & Engineering mLehigh Carbon Community CollegeLehigh County AuthorityLehigh Valley Association of Independent CollegesLehigh Valley Association of RealtorsLehigh Valley Rail ManagementLesavoy Butz & Seitz LLCLightweight Manufacturing, Inc.Majestic Athletics, A Division of VF Imagewear
VISIonaRY
$50,000+Lehigh County m rNorthampton County m j r
StRateGIC
$20,000-$49,999Air Products d rDiscover Lehigh Valley Lehigh University j rLehigh Valley Workforce Investment Board, Inc. d jNorthampton County New Jobs Corp. jPPL Corporation j rUGI Utilities, Inc. j
unItY
$10,000-$19,999Capital BlueCrossInnovative Designs & Publishing, Inc.Lehigh Valley Health Network j rLiberty Property Trust cLutron Electronics Company, Inc.PNC Bank jWells Fargo Bank d r
ValleY
$7,500-$9,999ArtsQuest rFirstEnergy Corporation KNBT, a Division of National Penn Bank rLafayette Ambassador Bank rMajestic Realty Co. cSt. Luke’s Hospital & Health Network j rVerizon Foundation rWest Side Hammer Electric r
allIanCe
$5,000-$7,499401 Creative Arcadia Properties, LLC rBank of AmericaBen Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern PA jBMW North America cCity of Bethlehem j rCommunity Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley Gibralter Development Corp Inc Green Knight Economic Development Corporation rJ.G. Petrucci Co., Inc. mLehigh Valley Industrial Park, Inc. c
Lehigh Valley International AirportNorthampton Community College jPiramal Critical Care cPrologis cSigma-Aldrich c Tallman, Hudders & Sorrentino, P.C., the PA office of Norris McLaughlin and Marcus, P.A.
CoRneRStone
$2,500-$4,999B. Braun of America, Inc. rBrown & Brown of Lehigh Valley, Inc.Cobalt Computers rConcannon, Miller & Co., P.C.Fitzpatrick, Lentz & Bubba, P.C. rHDR Engineering, Inc. m rIronton Telephone CompanyJ.M. Uliana & Associates, LLCJHG Hotel Management: 1. Hilton Garden Inn 2. Staybridge Suites 3. Marriott TownePlaceMack Trucks, Inc.Mosaic InteractiveMSG QuandelPalram Americas GroupQNB Serfass ConstructionSovereign Bank dT & M AssociatesURS CorporationZep, Inc.
CoMMunItY
$1,000-$2,49944 Business CapitalActive Data Exchange, Inc. rAFC Reverse Mortgage, Inc. rAlbarell Electric, Inc.Allan A. MyersAllied Barton Security Services LLCAllied Building CorporationAlvin H. Butz, Inc. Applied SeparationsBest Western Lehigh Valley Hotel & Conference CenterBlue Rock Construction, Inc.Bohler EngineeringBorton Lawson Breslin Ridyard Fadero ArchitectsBrinjac EngineeringBrown-Daub, Inc.BTI Coopermatics Inc.Buckl ArchitectsBuckno, Lisicky and CompanyCalicor StaffingCaruso Benefits Group rCedar Crest CollegeCharles Chrin CompaniesCity Center Lehigh ValleyCoca-Cola CorporationCompass Point, Ltd. r
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SAGE Design-Build, Inc.Schlouch, Inc.Select Sales, Inc.SmitHahn Company, Inc.Somerset Properties, Inc.Stemie’s 1818 TavernThe Bar Association of Lehigh CountyThe Garibaldi GroupTrans-Bridge Lines Inc.United Way of the Greater Lehigh ValleyWells Fargo AdvisorsWilliam Elek, LtdWoodmont Properties, LLC
entRepReneuRSHIp
$250-$499cumulusIQIMC BiotechnologyWalton Motivation, Inc.
KeYIndicates additional contribution:
m LVLRI: Lehigh Valley Land Recycling Initiative
d OMWOB: Office of Minority & Women-Owned Businesses
j KIZ: Southside Bethlehem Keystone Innovation Zone
c Foreign Trade Zone
r Indicates board of directors member of LVEDC
Manufacturers Resource CenterMaser Consulting, P.A.McTish Kunkel & AssociatesMericle Commercial Real Estate ServicesMeyer Jabara: 1. Holiday Inn Conf. Center 2. Courtyard by Marriott – Bethlehem 3. Hyatt Place – BethlehemMiers InsuranceMKSD ArchitectsMohr Management ResourcesMoonstone Environmental m Morris Black & Sons, Inc.MRA GroupMusclemaker GrilleMVM Associates, IncNacci Printing, Inc.NAI SummitNew World AviationNic Zawarski & Sons, Inc.North Star Construction Management, Inc.Northwestern Physical Therapy and Fitness Inc.Nova BankOndra-Huyett Associates, Inc.OraSure Technologies, Inc.Originate VenturesPenn State Lehigh ValleyPennoni Associates, Inc. m Performance Coatings International Laboratories, LLCPrudential Patt, White Real EstateReeb Millwork CorporationRLB Certified Public AccountantsRothrock Motor Sales Inc.Sam Adams/Boston Beer CompanySanctuary by Michael Perry Salon & Day SpaSands Casino Resort Bethlehem rScot Lubricants, LLCServpro of Easton, Bethlehem & WhitehallSpark Marketing CommunicationsSperry Van Ness/Imperial RealtySpillman Farmer ArchitectsSSM GroupStevens & LeeStiegler, Wells, Brunswick & Roth, Inc.Superior Quartz Products, Inc.Susquehanna BankSustainable Energy FundSYNACT, Inc.Taggart AssociatesTD Bank Team Capital BankThe Frederick Group, LLCThe Goddard SchoolThe Norwood CompanyThe Pidcock CompanyThe Seltzer GroupThe Stone House GroupUltra-Poly CorporationUnivestUpper Macungie TownshipVistacom, Inc.Wacker Chemical Corporation
Waste Management, Inc.Wind Gap Electric, Inc.Wind-Drift Real Estate Associates
SMall BuSIneSS aSSoCIateS
$500-$999AAA East PennActionCOACHAdams Outdoor AdvertisingAerotek, Inc.Alfred Benesch & CompanyAllied Personnel ServicesArtefact, Inc.Associated Builders and Contractors, Eastern PA Chapter, Inc.Barry Isett & Associates, Inc. m Berger-Epstein Associates, Inc.Broughal & DeVito, LLPC.F. Martin & Company, Inc.Comfort Suites BethlehemComputer Aid, Inc.Cushman & Wakefield of PADaniels Cadillac, Inc. – BMWDeiter Brothers DME AllianceDunn Twiggar Company, LLCDutch SpringsEastern PA Business Journal Electronic Commerce, Inc.Express Employment Professionals – Lehigh CountyFastSignsFedetz & Martin AssociatesFirst Star BankFishburn Realty CompanyFollett CorporationFranklin Realty Development CorporationGelcor Realty, Inc.Hanover Engineering Associates, Inc.Hanover Township (Lehigh County)Hanover Township (Northampton County)Hawley Realty, Inc.Integrity Personnel, Inc.Kelly Car & Truck CenterKistler O’Brien Fire ProtectionKnopf AutomotiveLehigh and Northampton Transportation AuthoritiesLehigh Career & Technical InstituteManagement Recruiters of Bethlehem, Pa.Mark Wetzel Accounting Management & ConsultingMerchants Bank of Bangor rModern Precast ConcreteModernfold of Reading Inc.NTH Consultants, Ltd.O’Donnell & Naccarato, Inc.Offix, LLC rOtt Consulting, Inc.ParenteBeard, LLCPennsylvania Metallurgical, Inc.Reimer Real Estate, Inc.RenewLV mRETTEW Associates, Inc.
The Hon. John Callahan Mayor City of Bethlehem
Mr. Donald Cunningham County Executive Lehigh County
Mr. John Cusick President Northampton County Council
Ms. Margaret “Peg” Ferraro Vice President and Designated County Representative Northampton County Council
Mr. Vito Gallo Asst. VP for State Relations Lehigh University
Mr. Tom Garrity Managing Partner Compass Point, Ltd.
Ms. Sally Handlon President Handlon Business Resources
Ms. Kassie Hilgert Senior Vice President of Marketing and Advancement ArtsQuest
Ms. Jane Kohler
Mr. John Krajsa President AFC Reverse Mortgage, Inc.
Mr. William Michalerya Associate VP for Governmental Relations Lehigh University
Mr. Philip Mitman President & CEO Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation
The Hon. Sal Panto Mayor City of Easton
The Hon. Ed Pawlowski Mayor City of Allentown
Mr. Michael Stershic President Discover Lehigh Valley
Mr. John Stoffa County Executive Northampton County
Mr. Richard Thulin President Arcadia Properties, LLC
offiCeRsCHAIRMAN Mr. Donald M. Bernhard Director – Community Affairs PPL Corporation
1ST VICE CHAIR Mr. Richard E. Thulin PresidentArcadia Properties, LLC
2ND VICE CHAIR Mr. William D. Michalerya Associate Vice President for Governmental Relations Lehigh University
TREASURER Ms. Jane L. Kohler
SECRETARY Mr. Tom Garrity Managing Partner Compass Point, Ltd.
EX OFFICIO Mr. Donald Cunningham County Executive Lehigh County
EX OFFICIO Mr. John Stoffa County Executive Northampton County
EX OFFICIO The Hon. John Callahan Mayor City of Bethlehem
eXeCutive CommitteeMr. William Ahlert Vice President HDR Engineering, Inc.
Mr. James Bartholomew Executive Vice President Embassy Bank for the Lehigh Valley
Mr. Donald Bernhard Director – Community Affairs PPL Corporation
Mr. Dean Browning Chairman Lehigh County Commissioners
Dr. Percy Dougherty Commissioner and Designated County Representative Lehigh County Commissioners
Mr. Seymour Traub Chairman Allentown Economic Development Corporation BoaRd of diReCtoRsMr. William Ahlert Vice President HDR Engineering, Inc.
Mr. Peter Albanese Treasurer – Board of Directors Green Knight Economic Development Corporation
Mr. James Bartholomew Executive Vice President Embassy Bank for the Lehigh Valley
Mr. Donald Bernhard Director – Community Affairs PPL Corporation
Mr. Anthony Biondi CEO Merchants Bank of Bangor
Mr. Dean Browning Chairman Lehigh County Commissioners
Dr. Percy Dougherty Commissioner and Designated County Representative Lehigh County Commissioners
The Hon. John Callahan Mayor City of Bethlehem
Mr. Donald Cunningham County Executive Lehigh County
Mr. Luke Cunningham Chair Bethlehem Economic Development Corporation
Mr. John Cusick President Northampton County Council
Ms. Margaret “Peg” Ferraro Vice President and Designated County Representative Northampton County Council
Mr. Bert Daday SecretaryLehigh Valley Partnership
Ms. Adriana DeFrancisco CEO Offix Systems
2011 LVEDC LEADERS
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