Address Main St. problems, planners told

Allentown’s eastern edge – along Main St. – is the sore thumb most in need of attention. That was the message from participants at a planning session focusing on improving Allentown.

The session was called by planning consultants for the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus working on plans to improve infrastructure for the medical campus and the adjacent areas of Allentown and the Fruit Belt. About 40 Allentowners attended the meeting April 16 in the Hamlin House.

The planning firm of Sasaki Associates of Boston has been hired by the medical campus and is working with the Allentown Association to prepare a plan for infrastructure improvements for which public funding will be sought.

After discussions in small groups, a representative of each group presented its views to all participants. Several focused on the Main St. edge of Allentown, its border with the medical campus.

“Main St. is the worst part. Buildings are crying for development, ”said Daniel Culross. The campus doesn’t blend into Allentown and vice versa,” he added, suggesting housing and retail development within the campus.

Making it easier for pedestrians to cross Main St., better and more uniform lighting, bike lanes and more on-street parking, were also suggested by his group.

Representatives of other groups agreed. Kelly Dixon cited Main St. vacancies. “Main St. is the problem,” said Gretchan Grobe, with “walkability and safety” an issue.

But Matthew Ryan, presenting his group’s comments, said focus should be on the Allen St. commercial spine. Although there has been considerable concern about bars crowding out retail shops, “I think we’ve started to bring in the right kind of retail,” he said.

Debbie Grine said there are fewer vacancies now on Allen St., and a healthy dialogue has developed between homeowners, business, and law enforcement. “A broader mix of retail,” is still needed, she added.

Participants were of mixed minds about expansion of parking. “A double-edged sword,” one said. “Nobody wants a lot or a ramp, but everyone wants parking,” said Matt Ryan. “It’s not a real issue,” said Kelly Dixon.     

“There’s a need for more organized activities for kids, like a boys and girls club,” Debbie Grine said.

“I think we need to embrace diversity and be inclusive,” said Police Chief Donna M. Berry of B District, a comment echoed by others.

The turnout and comments show “a strong commitment from the people who live and work here,” but “we need your help” to get anything accomplished, Mark Goldman told the consultants.

Kathryn Madden of Sasaki Associates said additional comments may be emailed to allentown@sasaki.com. “We’ll be back in June,” she added.