Courtesy of the City of Allentown
ALLENTOWN, Pa. – Lights in the Parkway is closed Sunday, Dec. 14 following a significant act of vandalism that caused extensive damage to holiday light displays, including restrooms at Lehigh Parkway.
The vandalism has resulted in port-a-potties being pushed into the river, bent light poles and posts, and crushed light bulbs, according to a press release from the Mayor of Allentown’s Office.
Courtesy of the City of Allentown
Authorities are actively assessing the full extent of the damage and determining the broader impact on the remainder of the Lights in the Parkway season. Preliminary assessments indicate that restoring the damaged displays will be difficult and costly during the current season.
As a result, it has not yet been determined whether Move It Monday, scheduled for Monday, Dec.15, will proceed. An update will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.
Officials say visitors who purchased tickets for tonight’s Lights in the Parkway event should contact the Parks Office for assistance with rebooking or refunds at (610) 437-7757 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) or by email at events@allentownpa.gov.
The city has deployed its full complement of Parks crews, who are simultaneously addressing last night’s snowstorm, assisting Public Works crews, and responding to the vandalism while securing and evaluating the site.
Courtesy of the City of Allentown
City officials condemn all acts of vandalism, and stress that last night’s incident impacts not only a beloved holiday tradition, but also the staff, volunteers, and families who look forward to this event each year.
The city says they will continue to evaluate repair options, and that every effort will be made to keep the Lights in the Parkway tradition going with the resources currently available.
This incident is being investigated by the Allentown Police Department. Anyone with information can contact the department at (610) 437-7753. Tipsters are also encouraged to provide information related to the incident through the TIP411 application on www.allentownpa.gov/police.