The Center For Rural Pennsylvania – Harrisburg, PA

Legislative Research Agency

The Center for Rural Pennsylvania is a bicameral legislative agency of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. Located in the Health and Welfare Building on Forster Street, this agency serves as a vital resource for rural policy development. Established in 1987 under the Rural Pennsylvania Revitalization Act, its primary mission is to promote and sustain the vitality of Pennsylvania’s rural and small communities. The Center acts as a bridge between the legislature and rural residents, ensuring their unique needs and perspectives are considered in state decision-making processes.

Research and Data

The core function of the Center is to sponsor and conduct research on issues affecting rural Pennsylvania. This includes analyzing demographics, economic trends, healthcare access, and internet connectivity. The agency maintains an extensive database of rural statistics and publishes reports that help legislators and the public understand the changing landscape of the Commonwealth. They provide grants to qualified faculty at the State System of Higher Education universities and Penn State University to conduct this research.

Grants and Outreach

Beyond research, the Center administers a grant program to support applied research projects. While the office does not provide direct financial aid to individuals, it offers valuable information and resources for community planning. The Center organizes public hearings and legislative briefings to facilitate dialogue on rural issues. Visitors to the office typically include researchers, legislators, and community stakeholders collaborating on policy initiatives.

Location and Access

Situated within the Capitol Complex, the Health and Welfare Building requires visitors to pass through security screening. A valid photo ID is required for entry. The location is accessible via public transportation and is compliant with ADA standards. Public parking is available in the nearby Capitol garages, though spaces can be limited during legislative sessions.