Research Reports

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA’s) National Centers for Environmental Information, billion-dollar weather and climate events have increased in the United States since 1980, with 403 events accounting for a total cost of more than $2.9 trillion (2025). To reduce disaster vulnerability and increase community resilience in Pennsylvania, counties are required to periodically create hazard mitigation plans. This study identifies and analyzes characteristics of natural hazards and losses over time, identifies and analyzes the quality characteristics of rural and urban hazard mitigation planning, and identifies challenges that exist for county emergency management coordinators in the state. The findings of this research highlight the unique challenges that exist for hazard mitigation planning in rural counties, including, but not limited to, the following: (1) lack of funding, staffing, resources/equipment, and technical expertise; (2) limited opportunities for training; and (3) requirements associated with unfunded mandates. Of particular concern, we find that urban mitigation plans overall tend to score higher in quality than plans in rural counties. In addition, across all counties, plans are weakest in identifying the key elements (including costs) related to the implementation of their plans. This study underscores the urgent need for state legislators to consider the ability of rural counties to implement hazard mitigation measures to reduce losses of life and property from natural hazards. Findings call for an examination of existing state programs and policies to cut red tape and streamline processes for increasing resilience to future hazards in the Commonwealth. In addition, solutions are needed to effectively address staff shortages faced by emergency management personnel in rural areas.  

This project provides an in-depth inventory of short-term rentals (STRs) in Pennsylvania, using AirDNA data from 2008−2023, and mapped STR locations in a Geographic Information System (GIS). The growth of STRs in Pennsylvania has been remarkable, beginning modestly in 2008 and expanding rapidly over the next 15 years. What started with just a handful of properties grew into a substantial market by 2023, with 53,810 active listings across all 67 counties. The STR market's evolution reflects broader trends in the sharing economy, with properties ranging from luxury apartments to unique accommodations like yurts and houseboats. The financial performance of these rentals also saw significant growth, with total revenue reaching $856.7 million in 2023. This growth highlights the increasing importance of STRs within Pennsylvania's tourism and housing markets, as well as their diverse appeal across both urban and rural areas. This project examines the distribution of STRs across Pennsylvania historically at the statewide level and analyzes 20 municipalities for housing characteristics, occupancy rates, economics, maximum guests, and bedrooms to gain insights into potential housing issues. The analysis shows how urban areas like Harrisburg, Erie, and Allentown leverage their economic bases and historical significance to attract STRs. In contrast, rural areas like Gettysburg, Jim Thorpe, and State College see growth driven by tourism linked to historical sites, natural beauty, and educational institutions. The research highlights disparities in Average Daily Rates (ADR) and occupancy rates between urban and rural areas, emphasizing the need for tailored policies for each. As STRs grow in popularity, this study offers a foundation for municipalities to manage and regulate this sector, ensuring positive contributions to local economies and community well-being.