Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton Metropolitan Area
Geography
The Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton Metropolitan Area, often referred to as the Wyoming Valley, is located in the northeastern part of the U.S. state of Pennsylvania. It encompasses three counties - Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Wyoming - and is bounded by the Pocono Mountains to the east, the Endless Mountains to the west, and the Lehigh Valley to the south. The region is characterized by a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with the cities of Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and Hazleton serving as the primary urban centers.
History
The history of the Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton Metropolitan Area is deeply intertwined with the anthracite coal industry, which played a significant role in the region's development during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The discovery of anthracite coal in the region led to a rapid influx of immigrants seeking work in the mines, which in turn spurred the growth of the region's cities and towns. The decline of the coal industry in the mid-20th century had a profound impact on the region, leading to economic hardship and population decline. However, the region has since undergone a period of economic diversification and revitalization.
Economy
The economy of the Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton Metropolitan Area has evolved significantly since the decline of the anthracite coal industry. Today, the region's economy is diversified, with key sectors including healthcare, education, logistics, manufacturing, and retail. Major employers in the region include the Geisinger Health System, Wilkes University, and the United Parcel Service (UPS). The region is also home to a number of small businesses and startups, reflecting a growing entrepreneurial culture.
Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton Metropolitan Area had a population of approximately 563,000 people. The region is predominantly white, with a significant Hispanic population in the city of Hazleton. The region has a higher proportion of older adults compared to the national average, reflecting the outmigration of younger residents in the latter half of the 20th century. However, recent years have seen an influx of younger residents, attracted by the region's affordable cost of living and job opportunities.
Culture
The Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton Metropolitan Area is rich in cultural heritage, with a strong influence from the region's coal mining history and the diverse immigrant communities that settled in the area. The region is home to a number of cultural institutions, including the Everhart Museum in Scranton and the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts in Wilkes-Barre. The region also hosts a variety of annual events and festivals, such as the Scranton St. Patrick's Parade and the Wilkes-Barre Fine Arts Fiesta.
Education
The Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton Metropolitan Area is served by a number of public and private schools, as well as several institutions of higher education. Notable colleges and universities in the region include the University of Scranton, Wilkes University, and King's College. The region's schools and universities play a significant role in the local economy, providing employment and contributing to the area's cultural and intellectual life.
Transportation
The Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton Metropolitan Area is served by a network of highways, including Interstates 81, 84, and 476, which provide access to major cities such as Philadelphia, New York City, and Baltimore. The region is also served by the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, offering flights to several domestic destinations. Public transportation is provided by the County of Lackawanna Transit System (COLTS) and the Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA).