Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Allentown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in development with critical priority
Workforce Housing Mandates for Publicly Funded Projects
Bill 82 would require large multifamily rental projects that get city tax abatements, big Housing Trust Fund grants, or public land to include affordable units. An amended version focusing on the LERTA process moved forward for a full council debate on November 18.
Proposed data center at 1024 N. Bradford Street
The owner of an approved flex warehouse is suing the city to use the site as a data center instead, and sought an extension to keep the warehouse approval alive as a fallback. Speakers from the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, Lehigh County, and the public warned a data center brings generators, noise, and grid risks next to a school and Coca-Cola Park.
Peregrine Tower Mixed-Use Development & Sight Triangle
A 37-story, 208-unit tower at 9th and Walnut would be Allentown's skyline-defining building, but commissioners tabled it over confusing elevation sets and off-street loading questions. Members pushed for design that better reflects the traditional neighborhood fabric, bird-friendly glass, lighting, and affordability.
W. Emaus Avenue Data Center Conversion
Quantm Group wants to convert a warehouse into a data center with 32 diesel backup generators, a substation, and 50-foot sound walls. Residents near Camelot for Children warned of noise, diesel exhaust, air quality, and rising electricity costs; the applicant offered many voluntary conditions but the application remained without a visible vote.
Nuisance Abatement and Problem Properties
Allentown established a new vacant property registry requiring registration for properties empty over 90 days. The goal is to help police and fire crews track empty buildings and prevent them from turning into blighted properties.