Cityline Construction

Gentrifying Old Allentown

ALLENTOWN, PA (MARCH 22, 2016) – Cityline Construction has recently purchased five properties in the Old Allentown Historic District, mostly circa 1880s Federal-style townhomes, with plans to upgrade and rent each of the locations. A sixth property in the neighborhood was purchased and updated by Cityline in late 2015.

“By investing in the neighborhood, we want to help restore and maintain Allentown’s oldest and most historic neighborhood, which is a vital stepping stone in the redevelopment of Allentown,” says Thomas Williams Jr., Director of Real Estate, Cityline.

Cityline specializes in urban rehab projects as well as fire and water restoration, and has been awarded numerous Lehigh Valley Builder Awards for its work, including the renovation and design of The Bayou restaurant in Bethlehem.

“Old Allentown provides much historic character and urban amenities, such as living and walking in close proximity to work and entertainment,” says Williams. He adds that the firm plans on purchasing additional properties in the district, which is noted for its preservation efforts and period brick Victorian- and Federal-style homes and businesses.

A renaissance in the 1980s in the historic area continues to inspire efforts today.  Some residents say the neighborhood felt a few setbacks due to the real estate boom and bust leading up to 2006. Today, Old Allentown has many a loyal resident and maintains an active calendar of events, including a popular annual house tour, a garden sale, and other civic pursuits.

To date, Cityline has purchased 223 North Ninth Street, currently under construction; 409 North Ninth Street, a single 2,000 square foot home, available for lease; 234 North Tenth, currently undergoing exterior and interior updates; 309 North Tenth Street, a multi-unit property scheduled for complete renovation; and 1142 Turner Street, a single-family home built in 1888. Cityline Construction completed updates and has leased a sixth property at 325 North Tenth Street.

“Target tenants are those who want to live in center city and are looking for historic character and lower prices with other amenities,” Williams adds.

Properties are expected to rent for $700 for a one-bedroom, to $1,050 for a three-bedroom 2,000-square-foot home. Some of the properties feature fenced backyards, and off-street parking with a garage.  

Cityline Construction is currently transforming the former Wible Language Institute, located at 24 South 8^th Street, into Wible 24, slick loft-style apartments located directly across from the newly approved Five City Center. Please see our article in Lehigh Valley Business Journal and The Valley Ledger. 

Cityline Construction of Allentown specializes in restoration, emergency and disaster services for businesses, institutions and homeowners.  For more information about Cityline, visit www.citylineconstruction.com or call 610-820-5555. Follow Cityline Construction on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.