Bloomsburg, PA is a small, historic town located within Columbia County and is home to just over 14,000 residents. The County seat, Bloomsburg, is considered an incorporated “town” in Pennsylvania. The relaxed atmosphere, characteristic of central PA, is balanced by stimulating cultural and recreational activities.
The turn of the century brought about a substantial change in Bloomsburg, PA’s economy because iron ore was exhausted, and the agricultural base was depleted. Textile mills began to locate in Bloomsburg, PA such as Magee Carpet, employing many local people and enhancing the local economy.
Today, Bloomsburg, PA boasts a diverse economy thanks to Autoneum, Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital, Bloomsburg University, and a downtown community of small businesses from shops to restaurants.
A section of downtown Bloomsburg has been named a National Historic District, opening the way for the refurbishing of its fine residential architecture. The leading organization in downtown Bloomsburg, PA is Downtown Bloomsburg, Inc.
In addition to a strong business community, numerous clubs and organizations represent a full range of volunteer, social and human service involvement. The Boy and Girl Scouts, Agape, Rotary, Kiwanis, Mason, Soroptimists, BPW and AAUW are just a few of the opportunities for citizens to become more involved in the community.
Another of Bloomsburg’s best known features is Town Park, which offers many acres of recreational activities including baseball fields, soccer fields, bocce ball courts, tennis courts, basketball courts, a fitness trail, the Bicentennial Bandshell, community pool, and a skate park. Also available are picnic pavilions, charcoal grills and a pond that is stocked with fish for an annual fishing derby. In the mid 1990′s, the community pulled together to raise funds to build an extensive children’s play area known as Kidsburg. Unfortunately, due to flooding in 2011, Kidsburg was torn down. Through volunteer effort, community members pulled together to raise funds and built Kidsburg 2.0 in April, 2014.
Live theatre, art galleries, concerts in Town Park and annual festivals contribute to the town’s rich cultural diversity. Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble features a variety of classical and modern plays. Several local art galleries offer hometown paintings to modern sculpture. The annual Town Park Ice Cream and Cake Festival, Renaissance Jamboree, and Bloomsburg Fair provide opportunities for residents to gather and celebrate their community.
Speaking of the Bloomsburg Fair, this event brings hundreds of thousands of visitors to the area each year. Held at the end of September, this annual event includes a wealth of attractions, entertainment, rides, and plenty of food for everyone. Other events are held at the fairgrounds throughout the year.
The campus of Bloomsburg University adjoins the downtown and also contributes to the community in many ways. The University’s expanded public library facility contains over 400,000 volumes, plus periodicals and microform. The Haas Gallery of Art, with changing exhibits, displays works by faculty, students, local residents, and special guest artists. The Celebrity Artist series, with renowned artists, plays, and musicals, contributes to the cultural opportunities available. For more information about Bloomsburg University and local school districts, click on the Community tab.
A beautiful, safe, and healthy environment, combined with the benefits of a diverse and progressive community, great location, cultural tradition, quality education and outdoor fun, make Bloomsburg an ideal place to raise a family and operate a profitable business.
