Harrisburg council approves $14.4 million reallocation to restore Broad Street Market; total project estimate now about $19.1 million

Harrisburg City Council voted 6-0 on Sept. 30 to approve a budget reallocation that will make $14,416,912 available to begin restoration work on the Broad Street Market brick building.

Council members cast the vote during a special legislative session after a lengthy policy work session. The action — Resolution 63 (2025) — increases general-fund appropriations so the administration can sign construction contracts, city staff said.

The vote followed presentations from city finance staff and the project team describing the scope and the funding gap. “The total estimated cost at this moment for the project is $19,120,000,” said Brian McCutchen, the city’s accounting manager, summarizing the budget schedule provided to council. McCutchen and city staff said prior payments and encumbrances reduce the remaining expense, leaving the $14.4 million reallocation request on the table.

Why it matters: the market’s brick building was severely damaged in a fire and has been the focus of revived interest to restore the historic structure and return vendors. The administration says contracts cannot be executed until the funds are posted in the city budget; council members warned that approving the reallocation is urgent if the construction schedule is to be met but also stressed…