STATE, LOCAL OFFICIALS JOIN IN DEDICATION OF NEW ROUTE 33 CHARLES CHRIN INTERCHANGE
Development of surrounding land to create 5,000 jobs, generate $16 million in annual tax revenue
PALMER, Pa. (June 25, 2015)
Surrounded by state and local dignitaries, Charles Chrin Companies today cut the ceremonial ribbon to dedicate the $40-million Charles Chrin Interchange on State Route 33 between Interstates 78 and 80 near Easton. Chrin’s development of the surrounding land is estimated to create more than 5,000 jobs and generate $16 million in tax revenue annually.
"As a business with deep roots in the Lehigh Valley, the Charles Chrin Companies are very proud to have taken the lead on this public-private partnership that will have a long-lasting, large-scale positive impact on the surrounding communities," Charles Chrin said.
Named for one of the region’s best known and most successful developer-entrepreneurs over the past 60 years, the Charles Chrin Interchange is expected to mitigate traffic congestion and stimulate significant economic growth for both small businesses and major employers. Construction on the project began in the fall of 2013. PennDOT is expected to open the interchange in July.
"We are all incredibly proud of having the Charles Chrin name associated with this new and vital interchange project,” Gregory Chrin, son of Charles Chrin, said. “It is truly unique and, in so many ways, reflective of the very special man who made it happen."
The project touches seven municipalities in Northampton County, including Palmer, Lower Nazareth, Upper Nazareth and Forks townships, and the boroughs of Tatamy, Stockertown and Nazareth.
"This transformational project is all about connecting business, industry and community," said David Colver, chairman of Palmer Township Board of Supervisors.
"This extraordinary venture blends the best of economic development with superb highway engineering design and construction. We’re happy to welcome new businesses and new jobs to Palmer Township and Northampton County."
A substantial portion of the project cost was dedicated to the replacement of a structurally deficient bridge before the interchange on Main Street near State Route 33, where the dedication ceremony was held. The project also encompassed widening Main Street and site improvements including storm water management systems, utility pole relocations and highway lighting. Plans are underway to provide for improved bicycle, pedestrian and public transportation access.
Chrin has plans for development of 800 acres around the interchange for manufacturing, distribution, retail and office space. Upon completion of the interchange, Chrin will donate the 23 acres of land this infrastructure occupies to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
More than 200 acres of land in the Chrin Commerce Center is currently under contract with well-recognized national and international firms.
