Stroudsburg, PA — The Pocono Chamber of Commerce convened its February Public Policy Meeting on Friday, bringing together federal, state, county, and municipal leaders alongside regional partner organizations to share updates and initiatives impacting businesses, residents, and communities across Monroe County and the surrounding Pocono region.
Legislative Updates Address Funding Opportunities, Public Safety, and Housing Priorities
Congressman Rob Bresnahan’s office shared that Community Project Funding applications will soon reopen, encouraging municipalities and nonprofit organizations throughout the district to begin identifying eligible projects that can deliver meaningful local impact.
At the state level, Senator Rosemary Brown provided an update on the 2026 – 27 budget process now underway in Harrisburg and highlighted several legislative efforts advancing this session. Senator Brown noted continued progress on “Greg Moyer’s Law,” bipartisan legislation that would require AEDs at school athletic events and practices to improve emergency preparedness. She also shared the reopening of the long-awaited Glenbrook Bridge, marking an important regional infrastructure milestone.
Additional updates were provided by the offices of Representatives Jack Rader and Tarah Probst, including increased constituent assistance needs related to energy and property tax relief programs, and the announcement of an upcoming senior scam awareness event planned for April 30. Representative Probst also emphasized the importance of long-term economic sustainability and previewed a district-wide housing summit planned for March to address regional housing challenges.
County and Regional Planning Leaders Encourage Public Engagement
Monroe County Commissioners shared updates on election preparations, community initiatives, and ongoing countywide progress. County officials reminded residents that election packets will be available beginning February 12, while additional community programming tied to America250 celebrations continues throughout the month.
The Monroe County Planning Commission encouraged continued public participation in the Route 611 Corridor Study, a major transportation and development initiative currently seeking community input through February 10.
Municipalities Highlight Local Investments and Quality-of-Life Initiatives
Municipal leaders from across Monroe County provided updates on planning efforts, infrastructure improvements, and community development projects underway in their townships and boroughs. Pocono Township announced the adoption of its first Historic District and continued progress toward strengthening critical infrastructure resiliency through grant-supported improvements. Stroud Township reported new ordinance updates, enhanced communication tools for residents, and preparations for its annual Spring Clean-Up event. Smithfield Township shared upcoming housing-focused work sessions and continued planning for outdoor recreation and grant-supported trail improvements. Middle Smithfield Township highlighted significant Local Share Account grant awards supporting community center upgrades, sewer extension work, and new multi-use public space development.
Regional Partners Share Economic Development, Transportation, Tourism, and Community Health Updates
Partner organizations provided updates reflecting continued collaboration and investment across the Pocono region. The Pocono Mountains Economic Development Corporation reported multimodal transportation grant awards supporting Monroe County projects and continued infrastructure planning efforts.
Housing and real estate leaders shared that a countywide housing needs assessment is nearing completion and will be released publicly in the coming weeks. January housing statistics also reflect continued market pressure, with median sale prices holding near $302,000 and active listings declining year-over-year across Monroe County.
Tourism officials outlined upcoming regional events and marketing initiatives supporting hospitality and economic growth, while the Monroe County Transportation Authority announced new paratransit vehicle deliveries and expanded fleet improvements expected this spring.
Transportation and rail partners also noted that PennDOT will host a virtual public meeting on February 19 as part of an ongoing study examining potential passenger rail service between Scranton and New York City.
New business included the introduction of Sanofi’s community-focused “Fresh Air” initiative, which will partner with local organizations to monitor air quality in participating homes as part of a broader environmental health effort.
Chamber Advocacy and Upcoming Engagement Opportunities
“The Chamber is committed to ensuring the voice of business is represented in the policy discussions shaping our communities,” said Kristine Bush, Chair of the Pocono Chamber Public Policy Committee and Immediate Past Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. “By convening leaders across sectors, we can better support smart investment, sustainable growth, and long-term opportunity for Monroe County.”
The Pocono Chamber of Commerce also shared recent accomplishments, including a successful Report to Business Breakfast, new business ribbon cuttings, and upcoming member events. The Chamber’s annual Legislative Luncheon will return on March 10 at Camelback Resort, continuing its commitment to connecting business leaders with policymakers and advancing regional advocacy priorities.
The Public Policy Committee will meet next on March 6 at 9:00 a.m.
About the Pocono Chamber: The Pocono Chamber of Commerce serves as a leading advocate for economic growth in the Pocono Mountains region, supporting organizations of all sizes while fostering collaboration among employers, government officials, and community partners. A proud partner of The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, it is part of a network of nearly 5,000 members employing more than 200,000 people, forming the largest chamber organization in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Information provided to TVL by:
Sarah Wallace
