February 22, 2022—The City of Allentown announced today that Downtown Allentown Community Development Initiative (DACDI) will donate $390,000 as part of the Hamilton Street Facade Grant Program for facade improvements coupled with better signage and storefront display enhancements.

The Hamilton Street Facade Grant Program is a partnership between the City, DACDI, and Community Action Lehigh Valley (CALV) that helps commercial property owners on the 1000 block of Hamilton Street and beyond improve their building exterior, marketability, and economic vitality while enhancing a major city gateway.

“DACDI is pleased to partner with the City and CALV to move this program and associated efforts forward to add to the momentum of downtown Allentown’s revitalization with its positive impacts on surrounding neighborhoods,” said Don Bernhard, DACDI’s Executive Director. “This program will follow a proven formula and work with strong partners to produce not just cosmetic property refurbishments but economic prosperity for property and store owners as well as for neighborhood residents through employment opportunities.”

DACDI will provide funding and assist with oversight of the program, reports, and communication while CALV will manage the projects. The City of Allentown will help garner support, and further encourage property owners to comply with signage and zoning/code violations that impact the property’s curb appeal and safety.

“The program will incentivize local businesses and property owners to invest in their buildings and have a real impact on the physical appearance of our primary commercial corridor,” said Mayor Matt Tuerk.

Improvements include but are not limited to brick and stone masonry, signage upgrades, architectural enhancements, fresh paint, new lighting, windows, concrete walkways, and awnings, in addition to streetscape improvements.

“It is critical that the facades along the gateways into our center city are attractive and safe,” said Peter Lewnes, CALV’s Main Street manager. “Thank you to DACDI for their donation and to the property owners for stepping up and investing their own money into this important cause.”

The Hamilton Street Facade Grant Program improved three facades in 2021 and has six projects ready to complete in 2022. The properties at 1019, 1021 and 1025 Hamilton Street were all completed in November 2021.

“The final product was really amazing to see,” said Natalie Jones, owner of 1019 Hamilton. “When my husband Jewel and I bought the building, it wasn’t pretty. There was a huge tree out front, and the program helped to remove it. I think it’s a great opportunity for property owners on Hamilton Street. We thought about doing it ourselves, but it wasn’t in our budget at the time. So, we were really excited for this program.”

All property owners between the 5th and 12th blocks of Hamilton Street are encouraged to apply. To attract committed property owners, and ensure proper upkeep, the program requires a 25% contribution from the owner. The property will also need to be current on taxes.

The Hamilton Street Facade Grant program is accepting applications from property owners interested in improving their property in 2022. To apply, please contact Peter Lewnes at plewnes@caclv.org.

Information provided to TVL by:
Genesis Ortega
Communications Manager
Office of the Mayor
http://www.AllentownPA.gov

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