The Shapiro Administration commenced its 2025 Urban Agriculture Tour on March 13, 2025, at the Bidwell Training Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This initiative aims to enhance access to fresh food, create local employment opportunities, and foster a more equitable food system throughout the state. Key state officials, including Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, Acting Education Secretary Dr. Carrie Rowe, and Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger, participated in the launch, emphasizing the importance of urban agriculture in addressing food insecurity.
During the event, the officials highlighted the ongoing expansion of greenhouse facilities at Bidwell, which is supported by the state’s Agricultural Innovation Grant program. This program is instrumental in training urban students for careers in culinary arts and horticulture, while simultaneously supplying fresh produce to communities in need. “Feeding opportunities for growth and economic prosperity in urban neighborhoods feeds all of our futures,” stated Secretary Redding, underscoring the administration’s commitment to strengthening local economies and promoting healthier communities.
Tour Highlights and Funding Initiatives
The weeklong tour will feature various stops across Pennsylvania, showcasing community-led initiatives aimed at improving access to nutritious food. It seeks to dismantle economic and social barriers while preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders. The Shapiro Administration has prioritized urban agriculture through multiple funding initiatives, including the awarding of $10 million in Agricultural Innovation grants to 88 projects across 46 counties earlier this year. Among these projects are high-tech greenhouse upgrades at Bidwell.
Additionally, the administration allocated $500,000 in Urban Agriculture Infrastructure Grants in March to support projects in ten counties. Since 2019, Pennsylvania has invested more than $3.2 million in urban agriculture, funding 160 projects across 19 counties. These initiatives support a range of projects, including greenhouses, off-grid systems, cold storage solutions, and tools designed to enhance fresh food availability while promoting economic and community development.
State Representative Emily Kinkead praised the administration’s efforts, noting that investments in urban farming extend beyond mere food production. They play a critical role in fostering equity and preparing future generations to address food insecurity effectively.
Future Plans and Economic Impact
Looking ahead, Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed additional funding in the 2025–26 budget to further expand these programs. Plans include an increase of $13 million for Agricultural Innovation Grants, alongside enhanced funding to connect low-income residents with fresh, local food sources.
Urban agriculture is now positioned as a vital component of Pennsylvania’s economic development strategy. The administration aims to strengthen the state’s $132.5 billion agriculture industry while also improving the quality of life for communities throughout the Commonwealth. As the Urban Agriculture Tour progresses, the Shapiro Administration remains focused on creating sustainable and equitable food systems that benefit all Pennsylvanians.
