February 7, 2024 – Sen. Nick Miller (D-Lehigh/Northampton) announced he has secured $2.5 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for the Center Square Public Improvement Project in downtown Allentown.
“This funding will go toward making Center Square more pedestrian-friendly, improving traffic flow and expanding the gathering space for hosting events and live music,” said Miller. “With so many vibrant additions expected this year, like the opening of the new Da Vinci Science Center and the Archer Music Hall, we want to continue the momentum.”
Additional funding for the project will come from the Allentown Neighborhood Improvement Zone Development Authority.
“We want our residents and visitors to feel excited and safe about visiting downtown,” said Miller. “As a lifelong resident of Allentown, I have personally witnessed the transformation of our downtown and I am excited to see continued progress.”
“We have come a long way, but we keep striving to make the Lehigh Valley an even greater place to live, work and play,” added Miller. “That’s why I will keep advocating to bring state funding back to our district.”
Miller said that this area is the heart of the city and providing green and clean space will allow for more recreational use, enabling even more people to utilize the space. Miller expressed gratitude to PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll for supporting the funding to help this project come to fruition.
“The Lehigh Valley is the largest growing region in the commonwealth,” said Miller. “There is a reason that people are coming here, and I expect that growth to continue, thanks to these type of projects.”