Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Allentown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in roads with high priority
Sidewalks on Hamilton Boulevard near Cedar Crest
The commission refused Seven Brew's decade-long sidewalk postponement on a stretch of Hamilton Boulevard where three serious pedestrian crashes occurred in ten years. Pedestrians — including college students and Dorney Park workers — currently walk in the roadway, and the site has a long postponement history dating to 1990.
14th Street Pedestrian Safety Improvements
A $15,000 AARP grant will fund a new flashing crosswalk warning sign on 14th Street between Allen and Tilghman streets, protecting seniors and students crossing near Gross Towers and Lewis Ramos Elementary School.
South 10th Street and MLK Jr. Drive Pedestrian Safety Upgrades
City officials and school leaders are working on upgrading school zones, installing speed cushions, and improving walking routes to protect students traveling to and from school.
Lehigh and Union Street Reconstruction
The city is redesigning the dangerous Lehigh and Union Street intersection, removing a concrete island and adding traffic signals, crosswalks, and pedestrian flashers to protect students and residents.
Street Cleaning Enforcement Coordination and Timing
Residents and council members raised concerns about receiving tickets after street sweepers have already passed, prompting calls for better coordination and real-time mapping technology.
Modernization of 19th Street and Roth Avenue Intersection
Allentown is finally replacing one of its last remaining dangling overhead traffic lights at 19th and Roth with modern mast arms, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals using state grant funding.
Speeding and Traffic Safety on True Street
A long-time resident of South 10th Street asked for help with reckless drivers, illegal dirt bikes, and parked cars blocking corner visibility, suggesting removable speed bumps like the ones seen elsewhere in the city.