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ALLENTOWN, PA \u2013 May 18, 2026 \u2013 Senator Nick Miller and the City of Allentown held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Allentown Center Square Plaza.\u00a0The groundbreaking marked the launch of the final phase in the ongoing project.\u00a0 Critical infrastructure rehabilitation and roadway improvements surrounding 7th and Hamilton Streets began in the winter. When completed, the new Center Square Plaza will be a more pedestrian friendly community hub.<\/p>\n
Enhancements to the Center Square Plaza, including improvements to the northeast and southeast corners, will improve aesthetics, accessibility, and overall functionality for residents, visitors, and downtown businesses.\u00a0The Center Square Project is a coordinated effort that combines three related initiatives implemented over multiple phases to strengthen downtown infrastructure, improve traffic flow, and enhance public spaces.<\/p>\n
Funding for the project includes a combination of ANIZDA public improvement funding, state funding, and private investment.\u00a0In 2024, Senator Miller announced he secured $2.5 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for the Center Square Public Improvement Project in downtown Allentown.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Center Square Plaza is a key part of continuing to make downtown Allentown a destination residents can take pride in, and visitors are eager to experience. As a lifelong resident of Allentown, I have witnessed our downtown\u2019s incredible transformation firsthand,\u201d said Senator Miller.\u00a0 \u201cThis project builds on the momentum of transformative investments like the PPL Center, the ongoing redevelopment of 702 Hamilton, the work of the Downtown Allentown Alliance, and the installation of the Semiquincentennial Liberty Bell, connecting Allentown\u2019s history legacy to its bright future.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAllentown is continuing to make strides in its goal of zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries, and this redesign will help us get there,\u201d said Mayor Matt Tuerk. \u201cThe amazing physical transformation of Hamilton Street both enhances its liveliness and makes it a safer place for all Allentonians to walk, bike, and roll through our downtown.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThe project, funded in part through $3.3 million provided by the Allentown Neighborhood Improvement Zone Development Authority\u2019s Public Improvement Investment Program, will greatly enhance the public space in the heart of our vibrant downtown,\u201d said Sy Traub, Chairperson, ANIZDA. \u201cThe plaza and surrounding streetscape improvements are designed to promote social interactions and connections among residents, visitors and the downtown workforce.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cI am truly delighted to contribute to preserving the rich history of Allentown\u2019s Center Square through the interpretive panels,\u201d said local historian Frank Whelan. \u201cIt\u2019s an honor to help celebrate the community\u2019s legacy and ensure that its stories are remembered for generations to come.\u201d<\/p>\n
Construction is expected to continue through Fall 2026. The City of Allentown previously announced<\/a> the anticipated Construction Phases:<\/p>\n Phase 1 \u2013 NW Corner (PPL Center)<\/p>\n Phase 2\u00a0\u2013 SW Corner (702 Hamilton St)<\/p>\n Phase 3\u00a0\u2013 NE Corner (2 City Center \/ 645 Hamilton St)<\/p>\n June 10 \u2013 August 5, 2026<\/p>\n Phase 4\u00a0\u2013 SE Corner (County Building and Vault)<\/p>\n July 31 \u2013 October 5, 2026<\/p>\n Phase 5\u00a0\u2013 Linden St & 7th St (West Corners)<\/p>\n July 15 \u2013 August 7, 2026<\/p>\n Phase 6\u00a0\u2013 Final Paving (Full Project Length)<\/p>\n September 22 \u2013 November 6, 2026<\/p>\n