Imagine Franklin 2035
Franklin County adopted an updated comprehensive plan, titled Imagine Franklin 2035, on September 27, 2023. The plan highlights current and anticipated community needs over the next 10+ years, particularly within the topics of land use, housing, workforce and education, community facilities, urban centers, human services, and transportation. We invite you to explore Imagine Franklin 2035 and partner with us as we implement the actions outlined in the plan.
What Is A Comprehensive Plan?
A comprehensive plan outlines a 10-year strategic vision. Through research, evaluation and, most importantly, community input, it sets goals and objectives for county growth and acts as a blueprint for county governments, as well as their public and private partners, to address opportunities and to build upon existing community assets. The comprehensive planning process creates a unique opportunity for public involvement and collaboration to promote growth that is consistent with the diverse needs and desires of the community.
What Is Included In A Comprehensive Plan?
A comprehensive plan addresses a range of land use, growth management, and preservation topics. As part of these topics, the plan outlines goals for meeting housing needs, expanding access to community facilities and utilities, such as schools, libraries, sewer and water systems, etc., and protecting the many natural and historic assets of the county among other important factors.
Three-Year Implementation Plan
To support the implementation of Imagine Franklin 2035, Franklin County developed a Three-Year Implementation Strategy that prioritizes realistic, actionable steps that address current community needs, organizing implementation into three three-year phases. The strategy is reviewed annually for progress and to take necessary course corrections were barriers to achieving desired outcome exist. In that way, Imagine Franklin 2035 is a living document that evolves as new ideas or influences are revealed.
Phase 1
In the first three years since implementing Imagine Franklin 2035, Franklin County has made meaningful progress toward several of the plan’s goals through collaboration, investment and community engagement.
- Agricultural land preservation: In 2025, Franklin County celebrated a significant milestone, preserving its 20,000th acre of farmland. Farmland preservation remains a top priority for county officials.
- Identifying community needs: The county and its partners have also participated in critical talks around community needs, including childcare and workforce challenges, through roundtable discussions with local educators, employers and service providers.
These efforts reflect a continued commitment to protecting Franklin County’s rural character while also planning for future growth and opportunity.
Challenges were highlighted that require continued attention. Housing affordability and attainability remain significant concerns throughout the county. Although the county is working with municipalities to explore avenues such as higher-density residential zoning, mixed-use development and redevelopment incentives, additional coordination and policy discussions will be necessary to address long-term housing needs while balancing infrastructure, farmland preservation and community character.
Phase 2
Franklin County is preparing for its second phase of implementation. Public input will help identify where progress should continue and where additional action may be needed.
Residents and community stakeholders are encouraged to complete an online survey to share their thoughts on a variety of topics, including transportation, housing, farmland preservation and other land use considerations.
Paper copies of the survey are available by contacting the Franklin County Planning Department at 717-261-3855 or planning@franklincountypa.gov. The survey closes Thursday, July 2.