ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Lane restrictions and closures began Monday at 7th and Hamilton streets as the city kicks off the first phase of its Center Square Redesign Project, officials announced.
The initial work focuses on waterline upgrades led by the Lehigh County Authority, which are necessary to support larger infrastructure improvements planned for Center Square. The waterline replacement will take place in five phases over the next several weeks, with varying traffic impacts:
- Oct. 20–22: Lane restrictions only
- Oct. 23–29: No left turn onto Hamilton Street while traveling south on 7th Street
- Oct. 30–31: Lane restrictions only
- Nov. 3–4: No right turn onto 7th Street while traveling east on Hamilton Street
- Nov. 5–14: Lane restrictions only
City officials advise drivers to plan ahead and expect delays while traveling through the intersection during construction. Additional closures and detours are expected in the spring as the project advances.
“The Center Square Redesign Project aims to reimagine the intersection surrounding the Soldiers & Sailors Monument, improving pedestrian safety, reducing traffic conflicts and creating more public gathering space in downtown Allentown,” said Genesis Ortega, the city’s communications director, in a statement.
The redesign was shaped through a series of community workshops where residents shared ideas to make Center Square safer, more connected and more inviting. Once complete, the project will reroute vehicle traffic around the monument and open new space for walking, gathering and downtown events.
Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Updates on construction and street closures are available at allentownpa.gov/streetclosures.
