PA Artisan Trail Initiative

Route 15 ByWay of the Arts is one of several Artisan Trails located in scenic traffic corridors throughout the state. Modeled after successful national programs and those in several other states, the PA initiative combines arts & crafts with tourism and economic development. The Artisan Trails offer guided weekend packages and self-guided road trips provided by select lodging, dining and artisan partners, and each Trail attempts to capture the unique essence of its local area.
 
The initiative made its debut to the public in 2006 after extensive planning and preparation conducted by a coalition of several state agencies and private organizations, including the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, the Department of Community & Economic Development, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen. These groups recruited art and heritage organizations, established criteria, provided training and evaluations, and more.
 
In 2007 the Year-Two program will be refined and expanded, and the initiative is expected to grow exponentially in the years ahead.