SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — A long-vacant piece of land in downtown Scranton is getting a major transformation. What’s now an overgrown lot will soon become a brand-new park along the Lackawanna River.
Right now, it’s an empty lot, six acres of overgrown land tucked between Cliff Street and the Lackawanna River, just below the Electric City Trolley Museum and Steamtown National Historic Site.
But in just a few years, this stretch of land will be a new green space expected to change the look and feel of downtown Scranton.
“Not only do we have the trail, but we have the trolley museum and the National Steamtown Historic Site, so it’s a real asset to the community. People who live here, work here, or visit here have the opportunity to take advantage of all the different amenities in close proximity,” said Kristin Magnotta, Lackawanna County economic development director.
The park will include a variety of features: a pavilion, a bridge connecting to the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, a water feature, even a large event lawn for concerts or community events.
There will also be a dog park, maintenance building, and eventually a boat launch into the river.
“There’s been a real increase in downtown living, and because this is so close to the downtown footprint, we are perfectly positioned for folks who live and work here to enjoy this park especially if they have animals,” said Magnotta.
The land is owned by UGI, which is responsible for environmental remediation of the site, specifically the area that will house the artificial turf dog park.
“The good news is, we’ll be doing some work alongside UGI as they remediate the site, not to dig up any good work, and we’ll be moving forward together to get the park started,” said Magnotta.
Already five years in the making, that remediation is expected to begin in Spring 2026. UGI will fund the effort, while also applying for grants and American Rescue Plan dollars to help move the project forward.
