Scranton, Pennsylvania
Scranton, Pennsylvania is located in Lackawanna County in the northeastern part of the state. The city is situated between the Susquehanna River and the Pocono Mountains, giving it a unique landscape and geography. It has an area of approximately 25 square miles and a population of over 75,000 residents.
The city is home to many different types of terrain, from rolling hills to flat plains. The majority of the city lies at an elevation between 500-1000 feet above sea level, while some higher points reach up to 1300 feet above sea level. The highest point in Scranton is Moosic Mountain which stands at 1517 feet above sea level.
The climate in Scranton is generally classified as humid continental with hot summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from around 10-20°F during winter months to around 70-80°F during summer months. Precipitation levels are fairly consistent throughout the year, with over 40 inches annually on average. Snowfall can also be quite heavy during winter months, with up to 60 inches falling annually on average.
The geography of Scranton features many interesting features such as Lake Scranton which serves as a major recreational area for locals and visitors alike; Lackawanna River which runs through downtown; and Nay Aug Park which offers scenic views of downtown from its location atop Moosic Mountain. Scranton’s geography provides a unique combination of diverse terrain and natural beauty that makes it a great place to live or visit.
History of Scranton, Pennsylvania
Scranton, Pennsylvania has a long and interesting history that dates back to the mid-1700s. The area was first settled by settlers from Connecticut, who established a trading post near the Lackawanna River in 1762. The area grew steadily as more settlers arrived and began to establish farms and businesses in the area.
In 1812, Scranton was officially incorporated as a borough and named after its founder, John Scranton. During this time, the city experienced rapid growth due to its location at the confluence of several major railroads. By 1880, it was one of the largest cities in Pennsylvania with a population of over 50,000 people.
During the late 19th century, Scranton was an important center for coal mining and iron production. The city became known as “The Electric City” due to its pioneering use of electric streetcars which were powered by electricity generated by local coal mines. This made it one of the first cities in America to have electric streetcars running throughout its streets.
The early 20th century saw an economic decline in Scranton due to changing economic conditions and labor unrest caused by strikes in the coal industry. However, this period also saw significant improvements to infrastructure such as roads and bridges which helped solidify Scranton’s place as an important transportation hub in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Today, Scranton is home to a diverse population of over 75,000 people who enjoy its rich culture and history while also benefiting from modern amenities such as public parks and recreational facilities; museums; art galleries; theaters; shopping centers; restaurants; universities; hospitals; public transportation systems; libraries; sports complexes; and much more.
Economy of Scranton, Pennsylvania
Scranton, Pennsylvania is a city rich in history and culture. It is also home to a diverse economy that has been shaped by the city’s unique location and history.
The coal industry was once the main driver of Scranton’s economy, but this has drastically changed over the last few decades. Coal mining has all but disappeared from the region, and while it still remains an important part of the area’s history, it no longer plays a major role in the local economy.
Today, Scranton is home to several major employers including Geisinger Health System, The Times-Tribune newspaper, Lackawanna College, Marywood University, and The University of Scranton. These institutions provide thousands of jobs for local residents and help contribute to the city’s economic stability.
In addition to these large employers, small businesses are also an important part of Scranton’s economy. There are numerous shops and restaurants throughout the city that provide goods and services to locals as well as visitors from out-of-town. Furthermore, there are many niche industries such as technology startups that have sprung up in recent years which have helped diversify the city’s economic base.
Scranton is also home to several manufacturing companies that produce medical equipment, textiles, automotive parts, industrial products, chemicals and more for both domestic consumption as well as export markets around the world. These businesses help create jobs for local residents while also contributing significantly to the city’s economic growth.
Scranton has a diverse economy that includes both large corporations as well as small businesses which helps keep its citizens employed while providing goods and services to its visitors from near and far.
Politics in Scranton, Pennsylvania
Scranton, Pennsylvania is a city with a rich political history. The city was founded in 1786 and has since been home to numerous politicians and civic leaders who have shaped the future of the city and its people.
The politics of Scranton are dominated by the Democratic Party, which has held majority control of the City Council since its formation in 1867. In recent years, the Democratic Party has maintained a strong base of support in Scranton, with registered Democrats outnumbering registered Republicans by nearly three to one.
In addition to local politics, Scranton is also home to several state and federal representatives. The city is represented by two members of Congress – Matt Cartwright (D-PA) and John Joyce (R-PA). It is also represented in the Pennsylvania General Assembly by several state senators and representatives from both parties.
At the local level, Scranton’s mayor is elected every four years on a nonpartisan basis. The current mayor is Paige Gebhardt Cognetti (D), who was first elected in 2019 after defeating incumbent Mayor Bill Courtright (D). The City Council consists of seven members who are elected at-large every four years.
Scranton also elects judges at both the county and municipal levels who serve for ten-year terms. Additionally, there are several other offices such as coroner, sheriff, district attorney, register of wills, recorder of deeds, controller and treasurer that are all elected positions within Scranton’s government structure.
Politics in Scranton are dominated by Democrats but with many Republicans holding important offices as well. This diversity helps ensure that all voices can be heard when it comes to making decisions about how best to serve the people of Scranton.
