Downtown Harrisburg should revitalize with less office, more residential, restaurants and retail, says report

January 22, 2026 | by Lawrance Binda

An empty N. 2nd St. in downtown Harrisburg

A new report on downtown Harrisburg urges city stakeholders to de-emphasize office space and focus more on residences, small businesses and public spaces.

On Thursday, the Urban Land Institute (ULI) released its “Technical Assistance Panel” (TAP) report, titled “Amplify Downtown Harrisburg,” created to help Harristown Development Corp. with a new strategic approach to revitalize downtown.

Downtown Harrisburg has been struggling since the 2020-21 pandemic, following the shift to remote work among thousands of office and state employees who once commuted daily into the state capital.

The report makes the following recommendations:

Accelerate office-to-residential conversions to meet growing housing demand and attract new residents.
Create a cohesive urban design plan linking the Capitol Complex, riverfront and Market Square through pedestrian-friendly streets and wayfinding.
Activate the riverfront and 2nd Street corridor with amenities, public art and retail to foster vibrancy.
Build a coalition of stakeholders to coordinate economic development efforts and implement a shared vision.
Launch a marketing and messaging campaign to celebrate successes and reshape perceptions of downtown Harrisburg.

The report underscored Harrisburg’s unique strengths—its scenic riverfront, historic architecture, and cultural assets—while acknowledging pressing challenges such as diminished foot traffic, underutilized office space and negative perceptions of safety. Downtown has the potential to be remade into a thriving residential hub supported by small businesses and enhanced public spaces, according to the report.

“We appreciate the great work of the ULI panel and all the important stakeholder comments and suggestions,” said Brad Jones, Harristown’s president and CEO. “This report can be an early tool to help inform the Harrisburg downtown master plan being formulated in partnership with Gov. Shapiro’s office and the downtown coalition being led by the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and CREDC.”

The report was the result of an 11-member team from ULI’s Philadelphia District Council. The real estate and land use experts conducted discovery research, conducted stakeholder interviews, took a walk tour of downtown Harrisburg and met with Harristown officials to formulate revitalization recommendations and strategies.

Jones added that, despite downtown’s challenges, Harristown continues to invest in and redevelop the area. Recent projects include a senior living project at 112 Market St., a new entertainment venue at Coronet Park, the conversion of apartments to condominiums at 18-22 S. 3^rd St., and the proposed development of 90 more senior living apartments at 333 Market St., a former office building.

“The ULI TAP recognized that downtown Harrisburg has many of the right assets to be a thriving destination: historic architecture, picturesque waterfront, walkable streets, and the state Capitol as a magnificent backdrop,” said Danielle DiLeo Kim, principal, DDK Urban Consulting and the Downtown Harrisburg TAP Co-Chair. “The key is to leverage these assets with collaboration and urban innovation to bring social and economic vitality back to downtown Harrisburg.”

Click here to view the full ULI report.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

January 22, 2026 | by Sara Bozich

Plan your weekend with my weekly list of things to do around Harrisburg and central PA!

What you’ll find below:

For something new: Katie Parla’s ‘ROME’ Cookbook Take Over Dinner at LUCA tonight; Cake & Cocktails Vintage cake decorating at Sweet Confections on Sunday

Worth noting: Social Hours at The Willows at Ashcombe extend this week (Thurs/Fri); The Bacon Brothers are in York

Things on my agenda this weekend: STEAM night, Baseball camp, dogsitting, SNOW?!

Thursday

Harrisburg Beer Runners A Warm Thursday at Wild Rabbit 3-Miler | Free | New Cumberland
Social Hours at The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion | Free | Mechanicsburg
Keystone Merge at The Grotto Community Center | Free | York
Katie Parla’s ‘ROME’ Cookbook Take Over Dinner at LUCA | $ | Lancaster
Germany, Austria & Alsace Wine Dinner at Restaurant Sidney | $ | East Berlin
Derek Avalon @ Sturges Speakeasy | Free | Harrisburg
Side of Yams at High Dive | Free | Harrisburg
CAPFILM: MEGADETH – BEHIND THE MASK at The Appell Center | $ | York
Open Mic & Jam at The Abbey Bar | Free | Harrisburg
Hank Azaria and The EZ Street Band: A Springsteen Celebration at American Music Theatre | $ | Lancaster

Extras

Early Bird tickets are available for this year’s Plants + Pints — just $15 through Jan. 31! Get yours now.
Want to share an ‘extra’? Email Sara with interest!

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Harrisburg mayor, council face off in court over legality of defunded and “interim” positions

January 21, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Members of Harrisburg City Council, (from left) Rob Lawson, Ralph Rodriguez and Lamont Jones, exited the Dauphin County courthouse on Wednesday.

A Dauphin County judge is expected to make a decision in the coming weeks on whether or not City Council was within its rights by defunding salaries for top city officials.

During a lengthy evidentiary hearing on Wednesday, attorneys for council and Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams debated which powers each body has, following a tense budgetary process this winter.

Williams sued council earlier this month for its action to defund several top city positions as part of the 2026 budget. After council initially passed the budget, the mayor line-item vetoed amendments that council made to cut funding for the interim business administrator, project director for business administration/LERTA and the police bureau’s director of community engagement and relations. Council also zeroed out the city’s portion of funding for the interim director of building and housing and economic development. Following Williams’ veto, council overrode the vetoes.

In front of Dauphin County Judge Jeffrey Engle, Williams testified, as did Samuel Sulkosky, the previous interim business administrator who was terminated along with staff in the two other completely defunded positions. Board chair of the Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority (ICA) Doug Hill also testified.

Much of Williams’ testimony regarded the understanding of her powers as mayor under the Optional Third Class City Charter, which Harrisburg adheres to. Williams said that she had the power to hire and fire personnel, while council serves as the legislative body.

This was the crux of Williams’ lawsuit against council, in which she said that council’s action “invades” her powers.

“This wasn’t a fiscal action,” Williams said during the hearing. “This was personal.”

Williams emphasized the importance of the roles in the city and that the business administrator role, specifically, is statutory and required under the city charter.

City council has explained previously that part of its decision to defund the two interim director roles was due to the fact that the appointees had not been approved by council.

Gloria Martin-Roberts was appointed as the interim director of building and housing and economic development in June 2024, and Sulkosky was made interim business administrator after council declined to affirm him in the role, which he had served in since October 2024.

According to the city’s code, the mayor can appoint an “acting” director, who can serve for 120 days before requiring council approval. However, both sides said that “acting” is not the same as “interim.”

Williams said that she was not aware of any provisions for appointing an “interim” director in the code, but said that she made the interim appointments “on the advice of my attorney, the city solicitor.”

Sulkosky, during his testimony, also noted that several previous mayors have utilized interim directors.

“This concept of ‘interim’ is imaginary,” city council’s attorney Casey Coyle told TheBurg. “It doesn’t exist in the law.”

Coyle explained that, because Williams is seeking equitable relief in a civil suit, based on the “unclean hands doctrine,” she should not receive that relief if she has engaged in misconduct.

Coyle said that the judge’s eventual ruling should clear up the practice of appointing “interim” directors and whether or not it is admissible.

“The hope is that we get clarity and that council is respected as a co-equal level of government,” he told TheBurg.

Referring to the other two defunded positions–the director of community relations for the police bureau and the project director for business administration/LERTA–Coyle said that, because they are not statutory positions, council could not be in violation of the code.

Council has previously stated that they defunded the project director for business administration/LERTA because they were dissatisfied with former director Jason Graves’ work and that the director of community relations for the police bureau position was redundant.

However, during her testimony, Williams maintained that by defunding the positions, council essentially fired the employees and rendered the positions unable to be filled.

“Why would anybody work for free?” she said.

Williams and Sulkosky also detailed their concern that essential city functions will be negatively impacted or interrupted without people in these roles. For example, Williams said that union negotiations with the Fraternal Order of Police and AFSCME have stalled, because Sulkosky has previously worked on them, and grants are in limbo.

At the beginning of Wednesday’s hearing, Coyle attempted to get the suit thrown out, saying that none of those potential harms, due to council’s action, actually harm Williams herself and are speculative.

Coyle also said that the case may create a “dangerous precedent” that would threaten the separation of powers between the council and the mayor.

Engle overruled the objections, allowing witnesses to take the stand.

The third witness was Hill, who testified in relation to the ICA’s, a state-appointed financial oversight board for Harrisburg, evaluation of the 2026 budget.

Following the budget passage, the ICA released a statement generally approving of the new budget, but raising concerns over the defunded positions. During his testimony, Hill reiterated his concerns that the defunding of those positions could hurt the city, which is still coming out of financial distress, and limit the city’s ability to bolster economic development. Without a project director for business administration, and with the interim director of building and housing and economic development unable to do work outside of her federal responsibilities, he expressed concern that an economic development plan for the city would not get done.

“We believe it’s important to have those positions funded,” Hill said.

Council members Danielle Hill, Lamont Jones, Crystal Davis, Ralph Rodriguez and Robert Lawson were in attendance at Wednesday’s hearing.

Council’s side did not call any witnesses.

Engle adjourned around 3 p.m., saying that he wanted time to review the evidence, but that he wanted to address the matter as quickly as possible.

Engle gave both attorneys seven days to submit their briefs from today’s hearing, sometime after which, he would be expected to make his decision.

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The Next Level: Two friends plan to open luxury events studio in old Cafe 1500 space

January 21, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

From left: Tiffiney Portee and Tina Hunter-Davis.

Two friends soon will open an events studio in Harrisburg, setting up in a key location along the 6th Street corridor.

Harrisburg residents Tina Hunter-Davis and Tiffiney Portee intend to co-own and manage their new events business, Élevé Event Studio, at 1500 N. 6th St., occupying the first-floor retail space of the 1500 Condominium building.

They plan to host wedding receptions, bridal showers and corporate gatherings at the more than 4,000-square-foot venue, which features an expansive dining area, flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows and a wrap-around bar.

The space’s in-house kitchen will allow them to cater such luxury events in-house, Hunter-Davis said. They plan to open in February or March, currently waiting on a retail license from the state and a zoning and occupation license from the city.

Portee emphasized that she hopes the business can be a space to elevate Harrisburg’s events scene.

“Harrisburg is an amazing place to live. I have no desire to live anywhere other than Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. My goal is to see us elevate to the next level,” Portee said.

“We’re just hoping for the support of the community,” Hunter-Davis added.

Élevé Event Studio at 1500 N. 6th St.

Hunter-Davis and Portee have only been friends for three years, but describe their relationship as a sisterhood.

“We’re able to be transparent to each other,” Hunter-Davis said. “And if I have a weakness, she has that strength.”

Portee echoed the depth of their connection.

“I feel like I’ve known Tina my entire life,” Portee said.

As partners in business, they bring vastly different professional backgrounds to the table.

Hunter-Davis retired from a 33-year career with the state of Pennsylvania in March. She previously conducted investigations of people and businesses suspected of violating state tax laws.

“It kind of seasoned me for this particular job,” she said, noting the work required her to be very detail-oriented.

Portee, meanwhile, is an investor, a real estate agent (brokered by Joy Daniels), and already a business owner, who manages New Beginnings daycare on N. 3rd Street.

“This is a startup business. It’s right in my wheelhouse. It’s what I do,” Portee said.

She expressed interest in becoming business partners with Hunter-Davis—who started her own event planning company, Tina HD Designs, immediately after her retirement.

Hunter-Davis said the business was a spinoff of her longstanding hobby of organizing events for family and friends—and while she started with just this base for clients, she was not prepared for how quickly her hobby-turned-business began to grow.

“Every event I have, there’s three or four people that attend that event that call me,” she said.

She added she felt relieved to have Portee join her. After the pair rebranded and established Élevé in November, they began splitting up business tasks, making it more manageable.

“We balance each other out.” Hunter-Davis said.

A table at Élevé Event Studio.

As luck would have it, the pair stumbled upon the old Cafe 1500 space when Hunter-Davis was working an event in the same building at the restaurant Crawdaddy’s.

“We came the next week to look at the space, and kind of fell in love with it,” Hunter-Davis said. “When it was Cafe 1500, I had only been in here and had brunch once. Tiffiney had never been, so when we came in, it was kind of like seeing it with new eyes.”

The space can seat 125 people for events that use a dance floor and has room for 170 people for cocktail hour events, according to Hunter-Davis. A lounge off the main area provides additional space, if needed, she said, and street parking is easily accessible.

They plan to employ family at Élevé, including Portee’s mother, a professional caterer, who will serve as the chef for the event studio’s kitchen.

Both Hunter-Davis and Portee think think that offering food in-house will set them apart as a luxury events space within the city.

“I believe that we are offering something that is not the norm and is not offered currently,” Portee said. “We’re a one-stop shop. We have our in-house catering, we have our bar, we have our in-house decorator.”

Hunter-Davis pointed out that, other than at a hotel, it’s hard to find all of that in one place.

“We’re both going to be at the forefront of doing everything,” Hunter-Davis added, noting one caveat where she alone takes the lead: decorating.

Portee nodded in agreement.

“She’s the creative of the two of us,” Portee said of her business partner. “She has an eye. She sees everything.”

“We call each other sissy,” Portee added with a laugh. “She’ll say, ‘Sissy, just put these chair covers on these chairs. That’s all I need from you.’ And I play my part.”

Élevé Event Studio will be located at 1500 N. Sixth St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit its Facebook page.

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Student financial literacy competition returns for 13th year, offers cash awards, scholarships

January 21, 2026 | by Lawrance Binda

Harrisburg University is a sponsor of the Student Financial Literacy Scholarship Competition (file photo).

An annual competition to promote financial literacy has kicked off for the year.

On Wednesday, Harrisburg University, Members 1st Federal Credit Union and PA Auditor General Timothy DeFoor announced the start of the 13th annual Student Financial Literacy Scholarship Competition.

“For the past 13 years, Pennsylvania students have brought us inspiring and heartfelt stories,” said David Schankweiler, interim president of HU. “Money management can be a hard-won lesson, and it is genuinely moving to see how these students turn curiosity, or even adversity, into new skills.”

For 2026, the competition’s theme is “What Does Financial Literacy Mean to Me?”

Pennsylvania students in grades 9 to 12 are encouraged to submit a short essay, poem or video about financial literacy. The competition coincides with Financial Literacy Month, which occurs every year in April. The student winners will be announced and publicly honored during the closing ceremony at the Capitol Rotunda on April 22.

At the closing ceremony, the following winners will be announced:

One First Place ($1,500) award for each grade level (9–12)
One Honorable Mention ($500) award for each grade level (9–12)
One Grand Prize ($2,500) for the best overall entry

Additionally, Harrisburg University will award a one-time, $1,000 scholarship to each student who submits a competition entry and then applies to and is accepted as a full-time student at HU.

The deadline for competition submissions is March 20.

In 2025, more than 100 Pennsylvania students participated in the competition, submitting essays, poems and videos describing what financial literacy meant to them.

“At Members 1st, we believe financial literacy is foundational,” said Ryan Riley, vice president of marketing and communications at Members 1st. “It’s built on confidence, it creates opportunities, and it helps individuals make informed decisions and shape their future.”

For more information and to submit entries online, visit HarrisburgU.edu/HUFinancialLiteracy.

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Find the Top 4 Contractors for Home Additions in PA This Year

January 21, 2026 | by Admin

Source: Unsplash

Expanding your home adds space without moving, and choosing the right contractor ensures safety, efficiency and quality. Central Pennsylvania offers skilled design-build firms specializing in home additions, second-story expansions and custom renovations. Each brings experience, craftsmanship and design expertise to help homeowners realize their vision.

How to Find the Best Value Contractor

Selecting the right contractor involves more than checking availability or costs. Look for transparent pricing, proven results and a focus on delivering quality that lasts. Consider these key factors to find a contractor who provides lasting quality without overspending:

Experience and expertise: Look for a proven track record in home additions and remodeling. Experienced teams handle challenges smoothly and efficiently.
Materials and construction quality: Durable, high-quality materials and reliable building techniques ensure safety and a polished finish.
Pricing and value: Clear estimates that balance cost with long-term home value help avoid surprises and protect your investment.
Reviews and reputation: Strong local reviews, awards and client testimonials signal reliability and professionalism.
Safety and structural expertise: Ability to manage structural, electrical, plumbing and HVAC work safely ensures compliance with building codes and reduces risk.
Fit for your vision and lifestyle: Prioritize contractors who understand your goals and create functional, beautiful spaces that align with your vision.
Communication and responsiveness: Consider contractors who keep you informed at every step, respond promptly to questions and provide clear updates. Strong communication reduces misunderstandings and ensures a smoother project.

General Cost Insights for Home Additions in PA

In Pennsylvania, the cost of home additions varies depending on project size and materials. Home additions could cost between $80 and $200 per square foot. Rather than adding a new foundation, you can often save by building upward since this approach typically requires less labor and fewer materials.

Certain additions, such as sunrooms, bump-outs or garage expansions, can enhance functionality and potentially add long-term value to your property. Choosing the right contractor may help you balance cost and quality, as experienced professionals can provide guidance, accurate estimates and design options that suit your needs. By planning carefully and exploring options, your home addition can enhance both your lifestyle and your property’s worth without unnecessary overspending.

Benefits of Adding a Home Addition in PA

A home addition in Pennsylvania can provide extra living space, whether you need a new bedroom, home office or entertainment area. These projects can enhance functionality and overall property value without the need to move. A well-planned addition can accommodate a growing family, create dedicated workspaces for remote work, or offer spaces for hobbies and leisure.

Choosing the right contractor can make the process smoother, as experienced professionals guide you through design, permits and construction with less stress. With thoughtful planning, a home addition can also allow you to incorporate modern features, like smart home technology. Ultimately, a home addition can create a more comfortable, versatile and valuable living environment while meeting your family’s evolving needs.

In addition, these projects can improve your home’s overall energy efficiency and reduce long-term maintenance costs. They might also provide opportunities to customize your space, reflecting your personal style and lifestyle preferences.

Top Contractors for PA Home Additions in 2026

Explore these top contractors in Pennsylvania that combine experience, quality craftsmanship and personalized service.

1. Creative Building Concepts — Best in Mechanicsburg

Creative Building Concepts is the best value contractor for home additions in Mechanicsburg, PA. It is a design-build firm serving Mechanicsburg and the greater Harrisburg area and has been delivering custom home additions since its founding in 2010. It creates seamless additions, including kitchen extensions, entertainment areas and primary suites designed for comfort and functionality.

Creative Building Concepts also offers a free initial consultation and builds extra stories or rooms to expand living space as families grow, using 3D renderings and close collaboration to ensure every detail meets client expectations.

Key Features

Manages every stage of your project, including permits and adherence to local building codes
Has a history of winning awards, such as the 2024 and 2023 Best Commercial and Residential Contractor from Susquehanna Style Magazine
Real-time updates via JobTrend for progress tracking from anywhere

2. KBE Design Build — Best in Brownstown

Based in Brownstown, PA, KBE Design Build serves Lancaster and surrounding counties with full-service home additions. It specializes in bedrooms, living areas, sunrooms, in-law suites and second-story additions.

KBE Design Build also remodels kitchens and bathrooms, combining expert design, skilled craftsmanship and personalized guidance. The team manages every stage — from consultation and design to permits, materials, construction and final walk through — for a smooth, stress-free process.

Key Features

Detailed floor plans and 3D renderings to visualize the finished space
Skilled craftsmanship with precision, attention to detail and quality materials
Enhances comfort and usability while seamlessly blending additions with your home’s existing architecture

3. BiiLT Contracting Group — Best in Linglestown

BiiLT Contracting Group is a veteran-founded design-build firm that specializes in home additions across Central Pennsylvania. It handles living rooms, dining areas, multipurpose spaces, bedrooms, in-law suites, offices and second-story additions.

The team oversees every aspect, from the initial consultation and design phase — complete with 3D renderings — to the construction process. It focuses on delivering skilled craftsmanship and ensuring a seamless fit with your home’s aesthetic.

Key Features

Handles permits, materials and scheduling for a stress-free process
Concierge-level guidance with a dedicated field manager as your single point of contact
Efficient project completion without compromising quality

4. Red Oak Remodeling — Best in York

Red Oak Remodeling is a York-based design-build firm specializing in home additions and second-story expansions. It creates master suites, in-law suites, bedrooms, living and dining areas, and recreational spaces that integrate seamlessly with existing structures.

The team designs 3D renderings to support structural engineering, subcontractor coordination and final inspection. This ensures all systems are properly upgraded for the expanded space.

Key Features

High-quality home renovations, custom woodworking and second-story additions that boost functionality and value
Combines efficiency with traditional craftsmanship
Personalized guidance with a single point of contact throughout the project

Methodology for Choosing the Best Contractors

The selection process for identifying the top contractors for home additions in Pennsylvania focused on established design-build firms that specialize in custom home additions across Central PA. Key criteria included a strong local reputation, consistently positive client reviews and a portfolio demonstrating high-quality craftsmanship. Additionally, firms that offer personalized services, such as 3D design renderings and comprehensive project management from permits to completion, were given priority.

Comparing the Top Contractors for Home Additions in PA

Evaluate the top contractors in Pennsylvania side-by-side to pick the best fit for your home and project.

Company	Specialization	Key Services
Creative Building Concepts	Award-winning home addition expertise and custom designs	Kitchen extensions, primary suites, second-story additions, custom rooms and permit management
KBE Design Build	Seamless home expansions and comprehensive project management	Bedrooms, living areas, sunrooms, in-law suites and second-story additions
BiiLT Contracting Group	Efficient and seamless home additions	Living and dining areas, bedrooms, offices, second-story additions and permit management
Red Oak Remodeling	Residential renovations and custom woodworking	Second-story additions, bedrooms, primary and in-law suites, and living and dining spaces

Finding the Best Value Contractors for Home Additions in Pennsylvania

Home additions can enhance living space and increase property value. Pennsylvania has many trusted contractors specializing in renovations, from second-story expansions to custom rooms. Selecting a contractor with a proven track record ensures safe, efficient and high-quality results. Review their services, ask questions and understand their process before hiring. The right team will create a home addition that meets your needs, reflects your style and provides lasting comfort.

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School fair to offer a space for parents, students to explore Harrisburg-area options

January 20, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

The “Find Your Fit” school fair will take place in downtown Harrisburg at Strawberry Square.

Curious about K-12 schooling options in the Harrisburg area?

Next month, Logos Academy will host a tabling event at Strawberry Square with representatives from public, private, charter and online schools across the region, according to school administrators. The private Christian school’s “Find Your Fit” schools fair will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21.

The hope is to create a one-stop shop that allows parents and children to explore their options when it comes to education.

“Instead of feeling like the other schools are competition, we want collaboration—because everyone wants the same thing. We all want the right student to be at the right school,” said Angelina Bartorelli, the event’s lead organizer.

Bartorelli said she’s seen many students and families bounce between schools, searching for the right fit for their child’s unique educational needs. Students with learning disabilities, like ADHD or autism, sometimes thrive in smaller private, charter or even online schools, she said. Other schools might focus on providing special education for students with disabilities.

“Students are all very unique,” she said.

St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, the Mount Calvary Christian School and the Circle School will be at the event.

The “Find Your Fit” school fair will take place in February.

To learn more about the Find Your Fit school fair, visit this website.

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Harrisburg volunteers celebrate King’s legacy by lending a hand on MLK Day of Service

January 19, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

Volunteers made no-sew blankets at Goodwin Memorial Baptist Church.

Hundreds of volunteers assembled for MLK365’s annual Central Pennsylvania MLK Day of Service Monday, eager to lend a hand to those in need in the community.

“What began as a small, local effort in and around Harrisburg has grown into a powerful regional movement,” said Shelly Lipscomb-Echeverria, MLK Day chairperson, at the group’s opening ceremony at Goodwin Memorial Baptist Church. “Today, we serve together, illuminating courage, spreading hope and strengthening our beloved community.”

The group’s annual Central Pennsylvania MLK Day of Service volunteer campaign asks Harrisburg residents to serve their communities on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Wrestlers from both the girls’ and boys’ teams at Harrisburg High School gathered at Beahive Affordable Housing Outreach’s new property on 2007 N. 3rd Street on Monday. They removed old carpeting, pulled nails and completed other tasks needed to transform the space into Beahive’s headquarters for its housing stability and community programs.

Domineak Commodore, head wrestling coach at Harrisburg High School, said he was proud of his 15 to 20 students completing the work.

“You never know when you’re going to be in need, and it’s always important to understand the power and importance of giving back,” he said. “Because someday you might be in a situation where someone’s going to have to give back to you.”

Domineak Commodore

Trishawnda Cabbagestalk, chapter president for the Harrisburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, joined other volunteers in Goodwin’s conference room to piece together no-sew blankets for those in need.

“It’s two pieces of fabric that, essentially, you cut and you tie them together. They don’t require sewing, but it is a warm blanket that someone that is in need could utilize,” she explained.

The Harrisburg resident said she loves volunteering on MLK Day, she thinks it’s important to give back to the community.

“It’s a day on, not a day off,” she said. “It’s an opportunity for us to give back.”

Trishawnda Cabbagestalk

At St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Patricia Tilman was one of a few dozen volunteers who gathered in the church’s basement Monday to make homemade cards that will be given to community members.

“To help to uplift their day, make them feel good and shine,” Tilman explained. “It makes me feel good to help others to feel good.”

Patricia Tilman

MLK365 had more than 15 service projects listed on its website with signup lists for volunteers.

This marks MLK365’s 17th year championing volunteer efforts on MLK Day to help those in need.

Volunteers helped remove carpet at Beahive Affordable Housing Outreach’s new property.

For more information, visit MLK365’s website.

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Portion of exterior wall of the Broad Street Market to be demo’d this week, city says

January 18, 2026 | by Lawrance Binda

The highlighted section of the Broad Street Market’s brick building is slated for demolition. (photo: city of Harrisburg)

A demolition crew this week plans to raze a portion of the wall of the brick building of the Broad Street Market.

Late Sunday, the city stated that it would remove a 30-foot section of the building’s wall near the southwest corner of Verbeke and Capital streets, close to the courtyard.

In a press release, the city called the work a “planned and previously anticipated demolition” that is being done “as part of ongoing safety and stabilization efforts.”

According to the city, the demolition is being done because “this specific section of wall has been identified by engineers as bowing and sagging.”

This presents a structural concern that must be addressed during the construction process, the city stated.

“This demolition has always been part of the broader stabilization and redevelopment plan for the Broad Street Market,” stated the release. “It is targeted, intentional and limited in scope. It does not represent a change in direction, nor does it impact the city’s continued commitment to preserving and restoring this historic community asset.”

The brick building was heavily damaged in a July 2023 electrical fire, and building reconstruction began in late 2025. In December, a large section of an exterior wall collapsed on the opposite side of the market building.

“The safety of residents, visitors, and workers is our top priority,” the city stated. “Addressing structural issues early and responsibly is essential to protecting the future of the Broad Street Market.”

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

January 16, 2026 | by TheBurg Staff

Shelly Lipscomb-Echeverria, MLK Day chairperson with MLK365, issued a call for volunteers with the group Monday.

A lot happened in Harrisburg this week, from reviews of financials and facility upgrades at city meetings to a local volunteer organization’s call for hundreds of volunteers this MLK Day. Check out our coverage of it all below:

Broad Street Market Alliance’s recently passed 2026 budget showed a yearly deficit. At a meeting this week, members discussed ways to stabilize the nonprofit’s finances. Click here for more.

Dauphin County approved contracts this week that give a sneak peek at its upcoming summer and fall festivals, our online story reported.

East Shore YMCA launched a new strategic plan, according to our January magazine story.

Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors reported that the median sales price dipped in December for homes in the three-county region, according to our online story.

Harrisburg City Council’s public comment period brought forward several community members concerned that ICE was in the area, who implored council to take action to protect residents. Read more here.

Harrisburg School Board members reviewed a plan to tackle school infrastructure upgrades. Our online story noted officials would like to create a new soccer field for the varsity girls’ soccer team on a portion of the 27-acre campus linked to William Penn.

Local parks officials say layering is a great way to keep kids safe from the cold while they play outside, as seen in our January magazine article.

MLK365 called for volunteers for various service projects happening around Harrisburg. Read our story here.

Sara Bozich has consolidated the best events happening around town this weekend, including closing day of the PA Farm Show and a fitness open house at the Jewish Community Center. For a full list, click here.

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You May Also Like

Plan your weekend with my weekly list of things to do around Harrisburg and central PA!

What you’ll find below:

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Extras

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How to Find the Best Value Contractor

General Cost Insights for Home Additions in PA

Benefits of Adding a Home Addition in PA

Top Contractors for PA Home Additions in 2026

1. Creative Building Concepts — Best in Mechanicsburg

Key Features

2. KBE Design Build — Best in Brownstown

Key Features

3. BiiLT Contracting Group — Best in Linglestown

Key Features

4. Red Oak Remodeling — Best in York

Key Features

Methodology for Choosing the Best Contractors

Comparing the Top Contractors for Home Additions in PA

Finding the Best Value Contractors for Home Additions in Pennsylvania

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