Allison Hill (Harrisburg) - Economic Decline and Gentrification

Economic Decline and Gentrification

Allison Hill is also, less fortunately, reputed to be one of the roughest neighborhoods in Harrisburg. Many of its once immaculate homes and buildings have fallen into disrepair and have become condemned and a large portion of the neighborhood's population is low-income. The neighborhood is now faced with problems such as delinquent land-owners, drug-dealing, littering, robbery, increased homicide, and prostitution.

The City is working on many new constructions and renovations in the area and other organizations such as Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Harrisburg Area and The Tri-County Housing Development Corporation are also doing their part to create opportunities for home ownership within the neighborhood, as well as supporting existing homeowners with critical home repairs.

Other organizations such as The Community Action Commission, ACORN, and Danzante (all with local offices based on the Hill) are dedicated to improving the neighborhood's atmosphere and cultural richness. Some sections near Market Street have begun to gentrify, while others are seeing new life due to the growing Hispanic population.

South Allison Hill, bordered by Cameron Street, Market Street, 18th Street, and Paxton Street is a designated Weed and Seed neighborhood. This neighborhood recently began both the South Allison Hill Homeowners/Residents Association and the South Allison Hill Business Association.