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Moosic, Pennsylvania
Moosic, Pennsylvania
Moosic, Pennsylvania
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Moosic (/ˈmuːzɪk/ MOO-zik[5]) is a borough in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, United States, 3 miles (5 km) south of downtown Scranton and 10 miles (16 km) northeast of downtown Wilkes-Barre, on the Lackawanna River.

Key Information

Moosic is in a former coal-mining region. A few older industries existed at one time, including the manufacturing of canvas gloves and silk products. The population was 5,972 at the 2020 census.[6]

History

[edit]

The name "Moosic" probably derives from the Unami language of the Lenape people, meaning "elk place".[7][8][9] The Lenape, a Native American people, are the earliest-known inhabitants of Moosic. The borough was incorporated on December 9, 1898.[10] Before incorporation, the villages of Moosic and Greenwood had been a part of Lackawanna Township.[10] From 1886 to 1987, Moosic was the site of Rocky Glen Park, an amusement park. The former grounds are now a Pennsylvania state historical marker.

Geography

[edit]

Moosic is located in the Wyoming Valley of northeastern Pennsylvania. In terms of physiography, Moosic is part of the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachian Mountains. Moosic is located at an elevation of 817 feet (249 m) above sea level.[11] The major body of water flowing through the borough is the Lackawanna River, part of the Upper Susquehanna-Lackawanna Watershed.[12] Moosic has a total area of 6.6 square miles (17 km2), of which 6.5 square miles (17 km2) is land and 0.1 square miles (0.26 km2) (1.52%) is water. Moosic has a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa) with four distinct seasons. Summers are humid and warm, with an occasional heatwave. Winters are cold and snowy.

Culture and contemporary life

[edit]

Recent developments in Moosic have created a restaurant, retail, and entertainment scene, including a multiplex movie theater, along with several restaurants and hotels. In 2005, a plan to build a large outdoor shopping mall near the theater was announced. The Shoppes at Montage were completed in 2007, consisting of an open-air, outdoor plaza housing over forty stores and restaurants.

The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are a Triple-A Minor League Baseball team in Moosic.[13] They are a farm team of the New York Yankees and play at PNC Field.

Other sites in the borough include the Lackawanna County Visitors Center, a Boy Scouts center, and the Glenmaura complex of upscale houses. Glenmaura National Golf Club is recognized as a PGA tournament course and identified by a major U.S. golf magazine as one of the top 100 courses in the nation.

Directly to the north of the borough is the Toyota Pavilion and Montage Mountain Ski Area, and directly south is Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, located in the adjacent borough of Avoca. In 2008, a water park was built on the grounds of Montage Mountain ski resort. Known as Montage Meltdown, the park was completed in June 2009.

The major daily newspaper in Moosic is The Times-Tribune of Scranton. The main television studios of WNEP-TV, the local ABC-TV affiliate, are located in Moosic.

Vehicle traffic is the major mode of transport. Walk Score rated Moosic as car-dependent, as "few amenities are within walking distance."[14] Public transportation is provided by the County of Lackawanna Transit System (COLTS).[15] Baseball fans can take a trolley from the Electric City Trolley Museum at the Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton to a station next to PNC Field.[16]

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
1880600—
19001,227—
19103,964223.1%
19204,36410.1%
19304,5574.4%
19404,5680.2%
19503,965−13.2%
19604,2437.0%
19704,6469.5%
19806,06830.6%
19905,339−12.0%
20005,5754.4%
20105,7192.6%
20205,9724.4%
2021 (est.)5,976[6]0.1%
Sources:[17][18][19][4]

As of the census[20] of 2010, there were 5,719 people, 2,363 households, and 1,596 families residing in the borough. The population density was 879.8 inhabitants per square mile (339.7/km2). There were 2,500 housing units at an average density of 384.6 per square mile (148.5/km2). The racial makeup of the borough was 95.3% White, 1% African American, 0.1% American Indian, 1.8% Asian, 1.1% from other races, and 0.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.7% of the population.

There were 2,363 households, out of which 24.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.7% were married couples living together, 11.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.5% were non-families. 28.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 2.98.

In the borough the population was spread out, with 19.6% under the age of 18, 61.6% from 18 to 64, and 18.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44.4 years.

The median income for a household in the borough was $38,987, and the median income for a family was $47,703. Males had a median income of $35,878 versus $22,261 for females. The per capita income for the borough was $21,178. About 4.3% of families and 8.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.0% of those under age 18 and 6.1% of those age 65 or over.

Demographic profile 2010[20] 2000[21]
One race 99.4% 99.7%
White 95.3% 98.7%
Asian 1.8% 0.5%
Black or African American 1.0% 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.1% 0.0%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 0.0% 0.0%
Some other race 1.1% 0.3%
Two or more races 0.6% 0.3%
Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 3.7% 0.5%
White alone 92.8% 98.4%

Industry

[edit]

Moosic, Pennsylvania, has transitioned from a coal and textile-based economy to a hub for light manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and retail.[22] Its location along the I-81 corridor and near the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476) has made it a favorable site for regional warehousing and distribution.

Signature Building Systems, Inc. opened its headquarters and manufacturing operations in Moosic in 2001. Signature is a modular manufacturer of single-family and multifamily homes.[23][24] It produces custom modular buildings for residential and commercial use throughout the East Coast, serving markets from North Carolina to Maine. [25]

Albright Precision, Inc., established in 1997, operates a precision metal fabrication facility in Moosic. The company serves industries such as lighting, medical, defense, and construction, offering design, manufacturing, finishing, and assembly services.

Bazooka Brands, the maker of Ring Pop candy, opened a new 120,000-square-foot facility in Moosic in 2024. The factory replaced an older site in Scranton and is capable of producing up to 1.5 million Ring Pops daily. [26]

Galaxy Manufacturing Company Inc. specializes in the production of industrial power brushes and private label products. The company is located at 500 Gleason Drive in Moosic.[27]

Education

[edit]

Riverside School District[28] serves residents of Moosic and neighboring Taylor. Moosic has two elementary schools, Riverside Elementary East and Riverside Elementary West which serves both Moosic residents and Taylor residents. Riverside Elementary West serves for Kindergarten,1st, and 2nd grade. Riverside Elementary East serves for 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. High school students attend Riverside Jr.-Sr. High school for grades 7-12, which is located across the Lackawanna River in Taylor. Riverside is known for its high school football rivalry with neighboring Old Forge.[29] The two schools are "archrivals", who have "arguably the most fierce rivalry in the Lackawanna Football Conference."[30][31] Old Forge leads head-to-head with a record of 32-30-4.

Notable people

[edit]


  • Moosic Presbyterian Church in 2015
    Moosic Presbyterian Church in 2015
  • Presbyterian church on an old postcard
    Presbyterian church on an old postcard
  • Moosic Trolley Works
    Moosic Trolley Works

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Moosic, Pennsylvania

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Moosic is a in Lackawanna County, , , situated in the about 3 miles (5 km) south of downtown Scranton and 10 miles (16 km) northeast of Wilkes-Barre. Incorporated on December 9, 1898, from portions of the former Lackawanna Township, the community derives its name from a word meaning "elk place," reflecting its early rural character amid forests and farms. As of the , Moosic had a population of 5,959 residents across 6.5 s (17 km²), with a of approximately 917 people per ; the 2024 estimate is 6,018. Historically rooted in the industry that dominated the region in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Moosic's economy began with operations like the Starks Breaker colliery established shortly after incorporation. The also played a role in industrial powder production through the Moosic Powder Company, later acquired by , which contributed to its early growth alongside rail lines serving transport. By the mid-20th century, as declined, Moosic transitioned toward diversified commercial and residential development, including the iconic Rocky Glen Amusement Park (1886–1988), which drew regional visitors with attractions like its "Million Dollar" roller coaster. Today, Moosic functions as a suburban community with a emphasizing retail, healthcare, and services, employing around 3,000 people overall. Notable modern landmarks include , home to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, and proximity to Montage Mountain, featuring a , , and the expansive The Shoppes at Montage retail complex. The borough's demographics (as of 2019-2023) reflect a age of 38.7 years, with 94.4% high school graduate or higher and 31.9% or higher attainment rates (ages 25+), a of $74,792, and a poverty rate of 7.54%. is provided through the Riverside School District, serving students in public schools, while local governance operates under a mayor-council system at Borough Hall on Main Street. In line with stable population trends in Lackawanna County, Moosic has experienced steady growth in and industry, maintaining its appeal as a vibrant residential area with elevations ranging from 620 to 1,280 feet.

History

Origins and Settlement

The earliest known inhabitants of the area now known as Moosic were the people, a Native American group whose Unami dialect provided the etymological roots for the borough's name. "Moosic" derives from the Unami term meaning "elk place," reflecting the region's historical presence of populations that were significant to culture and sustenance. The utilized the fertile valleys and waterways of the Lackawanna region for hunting, fishing, and seasonal migration, establishing a deep connection to the land long before European contact. European settlement in the Moosic area began in the early , as the region was initially part of Lackawanna Township, which had been formed in 1839 from portions of Pittston and Providence Townships in . This township encompassed vast tracts of farmland, divided into large sections that supported agricultural communities; notable among these were Stark Farm and Greenwood, which lent their names to local neighborhoods and highlighted the agrarian focus of early inhabitants who cleared land for crops and livestock. These settlements emerged amid broader patterns of rural expansion in , where pioneers established homesteads along the Lackawanna River to leverage the area's rich soil and proximity to transportation routes. By the mid-1800s, waves of immigrants arrived in Moosic and the surrounding Lackawanna Valley, drawn by opportunities in the burgeoning coal industry and related economic prospects. Initial migrants primarily hailed from , , , , and , seeking work in and rail development that transformed the from farmland to industrial hubs. Subsequent influxes included Poles, , and , who contributed to the community's as labor demands intensified, laying the groundwork for Moosic's into a key player in the coal era. This demographic shift marked a pivotal transition toward industrial dominance in the region.

Industrial Growth and Incorporation

The industrial development of Moosic in the late was driven primarily by the anthracite industry, which attracted significant investment and labor to the region. operations began expanding in the area formerly known as Lackawanna Township, with the Starks Breaker established as the first colliery in what would become Moosic. This was soon followed by other key sites, including the Greenwood Colliery, which by 1878 employed 393 men and boys to produce 139,445 tons of annually in the southern part of the township. companies constructed , stores, and boarding facilities near the mines to support a growing of immigrants from , , , , , , , and . Complementing the sector, the industry emerged as a vital economic pillar, supplying explosives essential for activities. The Moosic Powder Company initiated operations in the borough's early years, later acquired by the Powder Mills, which maintained facilities on for nearly a century. These mills produced black powder critical to the region's extraction efforts, contributing to Moosic's role as a hub for industrial support services. On December 9, 1898, Moosic was formally incorporated as a , carved from portions of to better manage its burgeoning industrial and . The centennial of this incorporation was celebrated in 1998, highlighting the community's evolution from rural settlements to an industrialized enclave. This legal formation coincided with recreational developments that bolstered social cohesion amid economic growth, notably the opening of in 1886 as a accessible via the Laurel Line railroad. The park served as a key social outlet, hosting ethnic celebration days—such as Italian Day, Irish Day, and German Day—that drew up to 20,000 attendees in the early , reflecting the diverse immigrant fabric of the workforce. It operated until its closure in 1987, after which a state historical marker was erected to commemorate its legacy.

Geography

Location and Topography

Moosic is a situated in Lackawanna County, , approximately 3 miles south of downtown Scranton and 10 miles northeast of downtown Wilkes-Barre. It lies within the , a broad glacial valley formed by the system, and is positioned at the northern edge of the ' Ridge and Valley province. The borough is nestled in the foothills of the , providing a transitional landscape between the urban valley and the higher elevations to the north and east. The total area of Moosic encompasses 6.53 square miles, of which 6.48 square miles is land and 0.05 square miles is water, primarily associated with the Lackawanna River that bisects the borough. The average elevation is 817 feet above sea level, measured along the riverbanks, which serve as a key geographical feature influencing local development and hydrology. Topographically, Moosic occupies a relatively flat valley floor characteristic of the Wyoming Valley, flanked by rolling hills and steeper rises to the west and east. The terrain rises gradually from the river toward the surrounding Appalachian ridges, including the nearby Moosic Mountains. The borough's northern boundary abuts Taylor and Scranton, while its southern and eastern edges neighbor Avoca, Duryea, and Old Forge, creating a compact urban-rural interface. Proximity to Montage Mountain, a prominent ski and recreational area rising to over 1,500 feet just to the northwest, highlights the transition from lowland valley to elevated foothill landscapes.

Climate and Environment

Moosic, , features a classified under the Köppen system as Dfa, marked by four distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Average temperatures range from a low of approximately 19°F to a high of 83°F, reflecting the region's exposure to continental air masses. Annual precipitation totals around 41 inches, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, though winter months contribute significant snowfall averaging 50 inches, enhancing the area's winter conditions. The environmental legacy of Moosic is deeply connected to the coal-mining era that dominated for nearly two centuries, resulting in widespread pollution of local waterways, particularly the Lackawanna River. Mining activities discharged laden with and sediments, severely degrading river ecosystems and water quality by the mid-20th century. Efforts to mitigate these impacts began with the decline of the industry in the 1960s and accelerated through federal regulations like the Clean Water Act of 1972, which spurred remediation projects to treat discharges and restore habitats. Contemporary conservation initiatives near the Lackawanna River emphasize watershed protection and ecological rehabilitation, led by organizations such as the Lackawanna River Conservation Association, established in the late . These efforts include stream bank stabilization, wetland restoration, and public education programs to prevent further , significantly improving populations and recreational usability since the . The higher elevations of nearby Montage Mountain create a localized microclimate with cooler temperatures and increased precipitation, particularly snowfall, that supports winter sports like skiing by extending the viable season for snow accumulation.

Government and Administration

Local Government Structure

Moosic operates under a mayor-council form of government typical of boroughs, where the elected serves as the chief executive responsible for enforcing ordinances and overseeing daily operations, while the seven-member council functions as the legislative body that enacts laws, approves budgets, and appoints administrative officials. The current , Robert Bennie, was elected to a four-year term and handles executive duties including police oversight and community representation. The borough council, composed of seven part-time elected members serving staggered four-year terms, convenes monthly on the second at 7:00 p.m. in the council chambers at 715 to address legislative matters such as and . As of November 2025, serves as council president, succeeding George Bieber who held the position until his death in June 2025 after more than two decades of service on the council. Additional elected positions include the tax collector, currently Bryan Fauver, who manages collection on a four-year term, and the district justice, George Seig, presiding over the District Court 45-1-01 that covers Moosic, Old , and Taylor boroughs for minor judicial matters on a six-year term. Administrative support is provided by appointed officials, including Borough Administrator Paul Thomas, who coordinates departmental operations and implements council directives as of 2025. Key departments feature specialized leadership, such as the Public Works Department under Road Commissioner Matthew Poplawski, who oversees maintenance and infrastructure tasks.

Public Services and Infrastructure

The Department of Public Works in Moosic Borough is responsible for maintaining the borough's infrastructure across its 6.5 square miles (17 km²), including the construction and upkeep of roads, bridges, and systems. This department also handles on public streets, enforcing a policy that requires residents to clear sidewalks within 24 hours after snowfall to ensure safe passage. Additionally, it manages waste collection services, conducting scheduled pickups for residential garbage and , as well as yard waste on designated days, and offers special collections for large items like appliances for a nominal ; the department has been recognized as a leader in efforts within . Park upkeep falls under the Public Works purview, with maintenance of recreational facilities throughout the to support community use. services are provided by the Moosic Borough Police Department, which employs 10 full-time and approximately 7 part-time officers to protect and serve residents, operating from a facility at 820 Springbrook Avenue under Chief Richard Janesko. The Greenwood Hose Company #1, established in 1900, serves as the , focusing on fire suppression, response, and property protection with Chief Charles Molinaro at the helm; originally formed to safeguard interests in the industrial era, it coordinates with for broader needs involving . Utilities in Moosic are managed locally where possible, with the Public Works Department overseeing sewerage system maintenance that traces its origins to upgrades supporting the borough's coal-mining industrial past. Water services are provided by Pennsylvania American Water, a regional utility ensuring reliable supply, while the Lackawanna River Basin Sewer Authority handles larger-scale wastewater treatment and collection lines serving the borough as part of its 17-municipality network.

Demographics

Population and Housing

As of the , the Borough of Moosic had a of 5,972 residents. The median age in the borough was 42.6 years, reflecting a relatively mature community. With a area of 6.48 s, the was 919.5 people per square mile. The of Moosic has exhibited modest growth over recent decades, rising from 5,719 residents recorded in the . This trend continued into the 2020s, with U.S. Bureau estimates placing the at 6,018 in 2024. Projections suggest the will reach approximately 6,035 by the end of 2025, driven by gradual suburban expansion near Scranton. Housing in Moosic consists of 2,815 total units, occupied by 2,442 households as of 2020. The median value of owner-occupied homes was $179,500, indicative of stable but accessible in the region. A poverty rate of 7.54% (as of 2023) affects affordability, particularly for lower-income families seeking to own or rent within the borough.

Ethnic and Socioeconomic Composition

Moosic's is predominantly , reflecting a composition that is largely homogeneous with limited diversity in racial and ethnic groups. According to the 2020 Census, 82.4% of residents identified as alone, followed by 3.9% Asian alone, 3.7% or African American alone, and 0.0% American Indian and Alaska Native alone. Smaller proportions include individuals identifying as two or more races (approximately 3.0%) and other races (about 3.1%). Hispanic or Latino residents of any race comprise 4.6% of the total , indicating a modest presence of this ethnic group amid the borough's overall demographic profile. Approximately 5.8% of residents were foreign-born as of 2023. Socioeconomically, Moosic exhibits a middle-class character with steady income levels that have improved significantly since earlier decades. The median household income stood at $74,792 in 2023, an increase from approximately $50,736 reported in the 2010 ACS, underscoring economic growth in the area. Per capita income reached $51,122 during the same period, while the poverty rate of 7.54% suggests broad access to economic stability compared to national averages. These figures highlight a community where family-oriented households contribute to resilient local prosperity, though disparities may exist across subgroups. Educational attainment in Moosic is high, aligning with indicators of a well-educated . Among adults aged 25 and older, 94% have completed at least a or equivalent, reflecting strong foundational outcomes. Furthermore, 35% of this demographic hold a or higher, exceeding the regional metro area rate of about 27% and supporting professional opportunities in nearby urban centers. This level of attainment contributes to the borough's socioeconomic vitality without delving into specific housing densities, which total around 6,000 residents as noted in broader demographic overviews.
Racial/Ethnic GroupPercentage (2020 /ACS)
White (Non-Hispanic)81.7%
Asian (Non-Hispanic)3.9%
or African American (Non-Hispanic)3.7%
or Latino (any race)4.6%
Two or More Races3.0%
Other3.1%

Economy and Industry

Historical Industries

Moosic's economy in the mid-19th century was dominated by anthracite coal , which attracted a significant influx of immigrant workers to the Lackawanna Valley. The Pennsylvania Coal Company initiated operations at the Starks Colliery in 1866, marking the first major mining endeavor in the area and spurring residential development as the Stark Estate sold building lots nearby. Subsequent collieries, including the Greenwood, Hillside, Blue Goose, Springbrook, Standard, , and Spike Island operations, expanded production and provided housing, stores, and boarding facilities for workers. Skilled laborers were initially recruited from , , , and , followed by waves of immigrants from , , , and seeking employment and opportunity, which shaped the borough's diverse early communities. Complementing the coal sector, the powder manufacturing industry emerged as a vital employer, producing explosives essential for mining and broader industrial applications. The Moosic Powder Company, established in the mid-19th century, was a pioneering operation that supplied black powder to the region's anthracite mines and operated for nearly a century before its acquisition and expansion by E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. DuPont constructed the Belin plant in Moosic in 1908, achieving full black powder production by 1912 and employing hundreds in a facility deliberately sited away from population centers for safety. This complex reinforced Moosic's role in the explosives supply chain, supporting coal extraction and other sectors until its closure in 1972 amid shifting industrial demands. By the mid-20th century, these industries faced irreversible decline, driven by the exhaustion of accessible coal seams, heightened safety regulations, and competition from alternative fuels like oil and natural gas. Anthracite production in northeastern Pennsylvania, including Moosic's collieries, peaked in the 1920s but plummeted after World War II, with most operations ceasing by the 1950s due to uneconomical extraction and environmental concerns. The powder sector similarly waned as black powder demand diminished with technological advancements in mining and manufacturing, leading to economic reconfiguration in the borough.

Modern Economic Sectors

Since the , Moosic has undergone a significant post-industrial transformation, shifting from its coal-mining heritage to a diversified economy emphasizing light manufacturing, healthcare, , and retail. Healthcare and social assistance is the largest sector, employing 509 people as of 2023. This evolution has positioned the borough as one of the fastest-growing areas in the , with population and commercial expansion outpacing much of Lackawanna County amid regional decline. Key employers in light manufacturing include Signature Building Systems, a modular construction firm established in Moosic in 1992 that specializes in prefabricated homes and multi-family projects. Albright Precision, founded in 1997, focuses on close-tolerance sheet metal fabrication, powder coating, and inventory management for industrial clients. Galaxy Brushes, operating from its Moosic facility, manufactures custom brushes for the oil and gas industry, contributing to the borough's precision production sector. In 2025, Bazooka Brands relocated its headquarters and opened a 120,000-square-foot manufacturing plant in Moosic, producing up to 1.5 million Ring Pop candies daily and securing local jobs in confectionery production. Commercial developments have bolstered retail and entertainment-driven growth, including The Shoppes at Montage, shopping center that opened in 2007 with over 50 stores and restaurants, anchoring regional consumer activity off Interstate 81. , home to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders team since its opening in 1989, serves as a major economic driver through events and tourism. Additionally, Glenmaura National Golf Club, established in 1991, supports recreational commerce with its 18-hole championship course and banquet facilities, attracting members and visitors to the area.

Education

Public School System

The public school system in Moosic is part of the Riverside School District, which serves the boroughs of Moosic and Taylor in full, as well as a portion of Old Forge Borough in . The district operates three schools for students in grades , with a total enrollment of approximately 1,497 students as of the 2024 school year. Riverside Elementary School East, located in Moosic at School and Kreig Streets, serves students in grades 3 through 6 and enrolls about 446 students. Complementing this is Riverside Elementary School West in Taylor, which covers through grade 2 for roughly 348 students. The district's is provided by Riverside Junior-Senior High School in Taylor at 310 Davis Street, accommodating grades 7 through 12 with an enrollment of around 693 students. A notable tradition within the district's extracurricular activities is the fierce football rivalry between the Riverside Vikings and the Old Forge Blue Devils, recognized as one of the most heated and storied high school rivalries in . This annual matchup, often played at Veterans Memorial Stadium, draws significant community interest and underscores the competitive spirit of local athletics.

Educational Attainment and Facilities

The educational facilities in Moosic are primarily served by the Riverside School District, which includes Riverside Elementary School East located at 225 School Street in the borough. This facility, along with others in the district, has undergone modernization efforts, including upgraded playgrounds and new HVAC systems to enhance student comfort and safety. The district's approved 10-year facilities plan (as of November 2025) outlines further renovations, such as replacing portable classrooms with permanent structures, upgrading electrical systems, and constructing a new career and technical education center to support hands-on learning. In 2024, the district opened a new Career and Technical Education center at Riverside High School to enhance hands-on learning opportunities. is a key focus, with the district's Department providing updated classroom tools and adopting guidelines for AI implementation to foster innovative teaching practices. However, Moosic lacks local higher education institutions, though residents have convenient access to the , approximately five miles away in neighboring Scranton. Educational attainment in Moosic reflects strong community outcomes, with 92.5% of adults aged 25 and older having graduated from high school or obtained a GED, according to borough demographics. The Riverside School District's high school graduation rate stands at approximately 87%, with ongoing initiatives to improve this metric through targeted support programs. Vocational training opportunities are provided through the district's Career & Technical Education unit at Riverside High School, offering programs in , mechanical trades, and other areas such as , , & , , and communication to align with local industries. These programs emphasize practical skills, including , small engines, and , to prepare students for regional employment. Community involvement in is evident through active participation in school board and funding mechanisms. The Riverside School Board, which oversees district operations including Moosic's facilities, held its most recent on November 4, 2025, where Joseph Audino, Belinda Grassi, and Jimmielee Vires were elected to four-year terms. Funding for the schools derives in part from borough taxes, such as the $52 annual tax, of which $5 is allocated to the Riverside School District, alongside property taxes and state like the $1 million RACP award for new construction. These resources support facility maintenance and educational programs, ensuring sustained investment in the community's youth.

Culture and Recreation

Community Events and Culture

Moosic's cultural fabric is deeply rooted in the immigrant heritage of its early workforce, which included significant populations from , , and Slavic regions. Historical celebrations of this diversity were prominently featured at Rocky Glen Amusement Park, operational from 1886 to 1988, where dedicated ethnic days showcased traditional performances, foods, and gatherings that highlighted the community's multicultural influences. As of October 2025, the former 198-acre site of Rocky Glen is listed for sale at $9 million, with potential for redevelopment. These events tied into the borough's industrial past, with the park serving as a social hub near sites like the Starks Breaker, fostering a sense of shared identity among workers from , , , , , , , and . In modern times, Moosic hosts community events that honor its leaders and promote local engagement. A notable example is the unveiling of a commemorative clock on on August 16, 2011, dedicated to the memory of longtime John M. Segilia, who served over 30 years until his death in 2010. The event, which included a noon striking of the clock, was funded through community donations and proceeds from "A Taste of Moosic," an annual gathering featuring local cuisine and entertainment. Borough-wide parades and seasonal festivities, such as processions, continue to bring residents together, reflecting ongoing traditions of civic pride. Moosic's cultural life extends through its close proximity to Scranton's vibrant arts scene, just minutes away, allowing residents easy access to institutions like the Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science and Art and the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple. Locally, heritage preservation efforts focus on the borough's mining legacy, supported by organizations such as the Lackawanna Historical Society, which maintains archives and exhibits on coal operations in the region, including Moosic's collieries like Greenwood and Spike Island. These initiatives ensure the stories of immigrant laborers and industrial growth remain integral to community identity.

Parks, Sports, and Attractions

Moosic Borough maintains six public parks distributed across its four wards, providing spaces for sports, picnics, and community gatherings. These include Felter Field, Ken Smerdon Field, Kobesky Field, Mary Ann Nawrocki Park, Mercatili Seglia Park, and William T. Quinian Sports Complex, each equipped with facilities such as playing fields, pavilions, gazebos, picnic tables, benches, and lighted walkways suitable for various ages. A prominent attraction is Montage Mountain Ski & Waterpark, located at the base of Montage Mountain and offering including and on 27 trails across 140 skiable acres, along with snow tubing and night skiing capabilities. In summer, the site transforms into a waterpark with features like a and . PNC Field serves as a key sports venue in Moosic, hosting the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, since the stadium's opening in 1989. The ballpark accommodates games, high school championships, and other events, drawing fans to its mountain-backed setting. Glenmaura National , a private member-owned facility established in 1991, features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, complemented by amenities like indoor and outdoor dining, a pool, and a . Outdoor recreation opportunities include access to trails along the nearby Lackawanna River, part of the 70-mile Lackawanna River Heritage Trail system maintained for walking, running, and cycling year-round. The Dick and Nancy Eales Preserve at Moosic Mountain, adjacent to the borough, offers additional trails for and nature exploration. Most sites in Moosic require car access due to the area's suburban layout, though some parks feature pedestrian paths.

Transportation

Roadways and Highways

Interstate 81 bisects the borough of Moosic, functioning as a primary north-south artery that links the community directly to Scranton approximately three miles north and extends southward toward Wilkes-Barre and beyond. This interstate facilitates regional commerce and travel, with key exits serving local needs; notably, Exit 180 provides access via US 11 and PA 502, supporting businesses in the vicinity such as warehouses and retail outlets along the corridor. Additional exits, including 182 for Davis Street and Montage Mountain Road, and 184 for River Street and Moosic Street (PA 307), enhance connectivity for residents and visitors to recreational and industrial sites. State Route 315 parallels through the southern edges of Moosic, offering a direct route southward to Pittston and Avoca while providing an alternative for local traffic avoiding the interstate. PA 502 begins at its intersection with US 11 in Moosic near Exit 180 of I-81, extending northeast to connect with PA 435 in Clark's Summit and serving as a vital link for eastward travel. Within the borough, local roads like act as central thoroughfares, accommodating daily commutes, access, and connections to commercial districts. The Moosic Borough Department of oversees maintenance of municipal roadways, performing routine tasks such as pothole repairs, signage updates, and surface treatments to ensure safe passage. These efforts address wear from heavy local traffic, including trucks serving nearby industrial parks. Historically, during the borough's industrial era dominated by in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, roadways received upgrades from gravel paths to paved surfaces to handle increased freight wagons and emerging motor vehicles, with significant regional improvements in the and funded by state initiatives to modernize northeastern Pennsylvania's infrastructure.

Public Transit and Rail

Public transit in Moosic is primarily served by the County of Lackawanna Transit System (COLTS), which operates fixed-route buses connecting the borough to nearby urban centers. Route 28 provides weekday service from Scranton to Pittston, with stops in Moosic, Avoca, and Dupont, facilitating commutes for residents to employment hubs and shopping areas. Route 26 links Moosic to Scranton and extends toward Wilkes-Barre via the Casino and Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center, operating weekdays from approximately 5:15 a.m. to 12:55 a.m. For airport access, transfers to Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) Route 17 are available from COLTS services, routing through Moosic to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton ; this connection supports travel to the facility, located about 4 miles away via Interstate 81. COLTS fares include a $1.75 cash one-way ticket, with 31-day passes available for $60.00 and reduced rates for seniors, students, and other eligible riders; schedules can be accessed via the COLTS website or myStop app for real-time updates. Historically, rail service in Moosic was provided by the Laurel Line, an electric interurban trolley system operated by the Lackawanna and Wyoming Valley Railroad, which connected Scranton to Wilkes-Barre and passed through the borough along the Lackawanna River corridor. The line, known for its third-rail power and passenger cars, ceased operations on December 31, 1952, due to declining ridership amid rising automobile use and highway improvements. Today, no passenger rail serves Moosic directly, though the borough's proximity to Scranton's Lackawanna Transit Center—home to Amtrak's station at 30 Lackawanna Avenue—offers access to intercity services via bus connections. Freight rail operations persist along the Lackawanna River, managed by the Delaware-Lackawanna Railroad, a shortline carrier handling commodities such as grain, plastics, and petroleum products through the Scranton area, including tracks near Moosic. Alternative transportation options in Moosic remain limited, with few dedicated bike paths for commuting or recreation within the borough limits. trails exist on Moosic Mountain at the Dick and Nancy Eales Preserve, offering about 3.5 miles of intermediate singletrack loops, but urban is sparse, emphasizing the reliance on bus and access for most mobility needs.

Notable People

Politics and Military

Matthew Cartwright, a longtime resident of Moosic, served as the U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania's 8th congressional district from 2013 to 2025, representing parts of Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, and Wayne counties. Born in Erie in 1961, Cartwright practiced law in Scranton before entering politics, where he focused on protecting workers' rights and addressing environmental concerns in the anthracite coal region. He co-sponsored legislation to strengthen public sector workers' ability to unionize and collectively bargain, emphasizing labor protections amid economic shifts in northeastern Pennsylvania. On environmental issues, Cartwright investigated fracking wastewater disposal practices and pushed to close regulatory exemptions for oil and gas waste, aiming to safeguard local water resources in the Wyoming Valley. John L. Gronski, a native of Moosic, rose to the rank of in the U.S. Army after a 40-year career that spanned and the . Gronski commanded the 28th Infantry Division from 2014 to 2016, leading the unit through training exercises and deployments that enhanced readiness for multi-domain operations in and the . A veteran of the , he previously led the division's 2nd in combat operations, earning recognition for tactical leadership in urban environments. Following his 2019 retirement as Deputy Commanding General for Mobilization and Reserve Affairs with U.S. Army , Gronski founded Leader Grove LLC, a consulting firm providing leadership training and executive coaching to defense and corporate clients. George Bieber exemplified dedicated local governance in Moosic as a longtime member of the Borough Council, serving as president from December 2022 until his on June 20, 2025, at age 70. A fixture in , Bieber spent 14 years on the Riverside Board of Directors, advocating for educational resources and student programs in the Moosic area. His tenure on the council emphasized fiscal responsibility and improvements, including support for public safety initiatives and in the borough. Bieber's passing prompted tributes from local officials, highlighting his collaborative approach to addressing residents' needs in a changing industrial landscape.

Sports and Arts

Moosic has contributed notable figures to , particularly , reflecting the borough's strong ties to the sport through local facilities like , home to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Joe Grzenda, a Moosic native who graduated from Moosic High School in 1955, enjoyed a Major League Baseball career spanning 1961 to 1972, appearing in 143 games primarily as a reliever. He debuted with the St. Louis Cardinals on April 26, 1961, and went on to play for the Kansas City Athletics, , , and Washington Senators, posting a career record of 9 wins and 17 losses with a 4.00 and 105 strikeouts, known for his control and occasional starts. His tenure with the Senators included the franchise's final game on September 30, 1971, in which he threw the final pitch to preserve a 7-5 victory over the New York Yankees; he appeared in 46 games that season before concluding his with the Cardinals in 1972. Grzenda, born in nearby Scranton, passed away in 2019 at age 82. He later coached in the .

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