Area of Carlisle Becomes a Qualified Opportunity Zone

Mechanicsburg, Pa. (November 9, 2026) – 

A Census Tract in Carlisle Borough has been designated a Qualified Opportunity Zone, a federal program that encourages long-term private investment in low-income communities through tax incentives.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the new designations on November 5, 2026, based on nominations submitted by the Commonwealth following a review led by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). Carlisle’s designation takes effect January 1, 2027, and will remain in place for 10 years.

Under the program, investors who reinvest eligible capital gains into a Qualified Opportunity Fund can receive federal tax benefits. Those funds may then be invested in commercial and industrial real estate, housing, infrastructure, and businesses located within designated tracts.

One of the most significant opportunities within the zone is the redevelopment of the former Frog, Switch & Manufacturing site on High Street. The Real Estate Collaborative (REC), a subsidiary of the Cumberland Area Economic Development Corporation (CAEDC), is overseeing the redevelopment of the 27-acre property. With more than $11 million in state and federal support, including a $10.2 million PA SITES award, REC is removing hazardous materials and preparing the site for sale to a master developer who will shape its next phase.

“Our job is to have the Frog Switch site cleaned up and ready for its next chapter,” said Andrew Notarfrancesco, chair of the Real Estate Collaborative. “With the Point at Carlisle Plaza also in the zone, there are now two significant opportunities in one part of town. Together, these projects can help shape what Carlisle looks like for the next generation.”

Cumberland County remains one of the fastest-growing counties in Pennsylvania, and the population within a 15-minute drive of the Frog Switch site grew 8% between 2010 and 2020, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

“Carlisle is the only community in Cumberland County to receive this designation, and it gives private investors one more reason to look closely at what is happening here,” said CAEDC Executive Director Janet Anderson. “We appreciate the work of DCED and the Commonwealth in making it happen.”

“If you are thinking about where to put capital gains to work, start by talking with your tax advisor about the program, then reach out to CAEDC,” added Anderson. We can help you understand what is happening in Carlisle and where the opportunities are.”

About CAEDC

CAEDC is Cumberland County’s lead certified economic development organization charged with leveraging and promoting Cumberland Valley’s economic development and tourism assets to drive growth, create jobs and improve the quality of life. Offices are located at 230 S. Sporting Hill Road, Suite 100, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050. For more information, visit www.cumberlandbusiness.com and www.visitcumberlandvalley.com.