Pawlowski Announces 19th Street Facade Program
04/09/2013
The City of Allentown is committing an
initial $50,000 to complete façade projects for any buildings that front
along 19th Street from Liberty Street to Tilghman Street. Mayor Ed
Pawlowski made the announcement this afternoon at a news conference
outside Civic Theatre’s 514 building.
The funds will be given
in the form of a self-forgiving loan, $15,000 maximum, and requiring a
dollar-for-dollar match from the owner. According to Pawlowski, Civic
Theatre’s 514 building, Blink Optical at 524 N. 19th Street and Daniel
Joseph Real Estate at 618 N. 19th Street have already expressed
interest.
“I know that the most visible investments in the city
are being made in the downtown with the hockey arena and nearby
development, but we are seeing improvements and investments all across
the city,” said Pawlowski. “The current 19th Street streetscape project
and its subsequent phases represent $3.1 million in investment in the
district.”
The 19th Street investment represents $1.5 million
from the city; $1.5 million in RACP funds from the state and $100,000
from the Allentown Fairgrounds.
The first phase of the streetscape project is expected to be completed by mid-summer.
The
façade projects will take the opportunity to restore or repair historic
and architecturally significant features, enhance lighting, upgrade
signage, and in some cases ensure the long-term integrity of the
buildings along 19th Street.
The program was praised by West
End Alliance President Michael Drabenstott. “The program will encourage
our merchants and property owners to invest in their businesses and our
neighborhood. And when people are invested, they’re involved and
committed. We thank the city for its continued support of the West End
Theatre District.”
Pawlowski said, “Last year we celebrated our
250th Anniversary. With this effort and our projects like those that I
have described going on all across this city, our next 250 years are off
to a very productive start.”
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