December 4, 2025 – The Allentown Parking Authority (APA), Senator Nick Miller (D-Lehigh-Northampton), and the City of Allentown announce that a Request for Proposals (RFP) is now open for the redevelopment of the 100 Block of North 7th Street. This effort aims to revitalize a key section of Downtown Allentown by aligning infrastructure investment, business innovation, and civic leadership. The partners are seeking a development team capable of transforming the site into a dynamic mixed-use project that drives economic growth, enhances public safety, and delivers long-term community value.
“This site has long been a challenge for the community, and today we’re moving decisively to change that,” said Senator Nick Miller. “With the RFP now open, we’re taking a step toward turning a block that currently generates multiple police calls per day into a vibrant destination that reflects the momentum of our downtown. I’m confident this public-private partnership will draw proposals that strengthen the 7th Street corridor and deliver long-lasting benefits for Allentown residents.”
“7th and Linden sets the tone for visitors to Allentown’s vibrant downtown, and we want to make sure that they have the best possible impression,” said Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk. “I’m excited to see how our partners will help us to envision a project befitting of the beating heart of the Lehigh Valley.”
“This is an example of what a functioning government and community look like,” said Theodore J. Zeller, Chair of the APA. “This project is a collaboration among the City, its largest independent authority, regional leader City Center Group, and national retailer 7-Eleven.”
“We’re proud to stand alongside dedicated partners like 7-Eleven, the City of Allentown, and Senator Miller’s office,” said Jon Haney, Executive Director. “This initiative is more than a project; it’s a statement about what’s possible when everyone at the table is focused on progress.”
“The initiative has been years in the making, bringing together diverse stakeholders to shape a shared vision. From early-stage planning to alignment on logistics and approvals, the coordinated effort has resulted in an unparalleled opportunity in the heart of Allentown, a city being reborn before our eyes”, said Haney.
The project site is adjacent to N 7th St/ PA route 145 which yields 63,000 vehicles per day. As Pennsylvania’s third largest city, Allentown is a home to a population more than 125,000 people with hundreds of businesses and people who live and work in the area.
The City of Allentown, APA, 7-Eleven, and City Center Group are looking to attract a developer that can strengthen the 7th Street corridor and deliver a project that further positions Downtown Allentown.
Project Site
Development Requirements
This project features both vacant parcels and active uses, notably a 7-Eleven at the Northwest corner of 7th and Linden.
The current tenant will participate by potentially owning a condo unit for its store while remaining the anchor tenant. They are open to layout changes but require space for their standard store format. Alternatively, 7-Eleven might relocate to an existing retail space outside the development, allowing for additional project space.
In addition, the developer will be required to build the necessary parking infrastructure for the projects proposed uses this location and dedicate it back to the APA as a part of the Parking Authority’s ownership model in the project.
Proposed design concepts should include 7-Eleven as a tenant and not as a tenant.
Proposals
Questions regarding the proposal may be submitted in writing to ryoung@allentownparking.com by 4:00 p.m. on January 30, 2026. All responses to questions will be sent out as an addendum to the e-mail address provided by prospective bidders.
Sealed proposals (10 bound copies and one digital copy) must be received by The Allentown Parking Authority no later than February 27, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
ALL PROPOSALS MUST BE SEALED AND CLEARLY MARKED, “APA/RFP 100 Block N 7thSt”. Mailed copies should be addressed to:
ATTN: Richard A. Young, P.E., Project Manager
The Allentown Parking Authority
603 W. Linden Street
Allentown, PA 18101
Please note, any request for additional information should be sent via e-mail to ryoung@allentownparking.com.
For more details on the RFP, please visit allentownparking.com/about/bids-and-proposals.
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Contact:
Gail Vivar, Senator Nick Miller, 201-870-2378
Theodore Z. Zeller, Allentown Parking Authority, 484-765-2220
Genesis Ortega, City of Allentown, 484-357-3002