Harrisburg, PA – December 11, 2024 – The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) is proud to announce the successful closing of two significant Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) loans that will enhance the agricultural and industrial landscape of our region. These projects exemplify CREDC’s commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth.
Longenecker’s Hatchery Inc.
Longenecker’s Hatchery Inc., a fifth-generation family-owned business, secured a 15-year, $1,800,000 loan at a 4.50% reset interest rate to construct a state-of-the-art 44,241-square-foot hatchery in Duncannon, Perry County. The facility, located at 10 Duncannon Drive, features specialized areas for egg receiving, incubation, vaccine administration, hatching, and processing, supporting the company’s operations as a regional supplier of broiler chicks and hatching eggs. With a total project cost of $18,915,035, this expansion positions Longenecker’s Hatchery to create 24 new full-time jobs within three years and further support its network of local farms. The loan closed on December 11, 2024, in partnership with Fulton Bank.
Founded in 1919, Longenecker’s Hatchery remains dedicated to providing high-quality products at competitive prices while supporting farmers and the community. This project underscores the company’s commitment to ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.
Walnut Ridge Farms, LLC
Walnut Ridge Farms, LLC, a family-owned farming operation established in 2020, closed on its latest expansion project with the help of a $400,000 PIDA loan from the SBF loan pool. The project, located in Dauphin County, involved the acquisition of 97 additional acres of farmland, increasing the farm’s capacity by 60% and enhancing crop production efficiency. Owned and operated by Curry Jr. and Margo Wagner, Walnut Ridge Farms focuses on cultivating corn and soybeans and is dedicated to meeting the growing demands of its industry. The loan, which closed on November 12, 2024, was used to pay off a time note from FCCB and aligns with PIDA program rules.
CREDC’s Role in Economic Development
Both projects highlight CREDC’s role in facilitating low-interest PIDA loans to support businesses that create and retain full-time jobs while driving economic vitality. PIDA loans can be used for land and building acquisitions, construction, renovations, equipment purchases, and working capital. These collaborations exemplify the power of strategic partnerships in fostering growth and innovation in our region.
We congratulate Longenecker’s Hatchery and Walnut Ridge Farms on their milestones and look forward to the positive impacts these projects will have on their industries and communities.
About CREDC
The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) is the economic development arm of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and the Certified Economic Development Organization (CEDO) approved by the Commonwealth’s Department of Community and Economic Development to perform economic development activities using Pennsylvania’s funding programs in Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry counties.
The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC serves as a catalyst for promoting growth and quality of life in Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry counties through bold leadership, visionary members, and powerful results. Building on its 130+ year history, the organization provides a unique blend of business, community, economic development, and advocacy services under one roof to boost economic vitality and livability across the region. The Chamber & CREDC is 5-star accredited by the United States Chamber of Commerce, a distinction achieved by less than five percent of chambers across the nation.
