In partnership with the Erie County Redevelopment Authority (ECRDA) and Integrated Agriculture Systems (INTAG) and in collaboration with C.A. Curtze Company, the Minority Community Investment Coalition’s (MCIC) Grow Erie project is an equitable economic development project located at Savocchio Opportunity Park, a vacant lot located in Erie’s poorest zip code.

By introducing high-technology controlled environment agriculture — through aquaponics and hydroponics — and promoting neighborhood revitalization on Erie’s eastside, Grow Erie will create sustainable income to reinvest in high-need neighborhoods, provide employment opportunities to low-income residents, and bring a source of locally grown food to a USDA-designated food desert.

Grow Erie consists of two distinct facilities at Savocchio Opportunity Park, which, once developed, will positively impact about 20,000 residents in need.

• A 17,000 square foot commercial facility where fish and plants will be grown using a system of aquaponics. This high-tech greenhouse will operate 365 days a year, and will supply C.A. Curtze Company with market-rate, locally grown fresh greens, micro-greens and live herbs.
• A 2,500 square foot community greenhouse will be open to local residents and o er a variety of raised beds for growing produce. The accessible, year-round greenhouse will contain the necessary equipment for ensuring food-safety and the production of clean, healthy food for distribution through neighborhood farmer’s markets.

Grow Erie Partners Who Helped Make the Project Happen

Frst National Bank
Erie Bank
KeyBank
Northwest Bank
Marquette Savings Bank
Janitor’s Supply
E.E. Austin & Son