Project Spotlight: The Waterfront – Transforming Allentown’s Riverfront into a Vibrant Community

Allentown’s Lehigh Riverfront is undergoing an exciting transformation, driven by visionary redevelopment that redefines urban living and working in the Lehigh Valley. At the heart of this evolution is The Waterfront—a dynamic, mixed-use community developed by Jaindl Properties. Formerly an industrial site, The Waterfront symbolizes Allentown’s economic revitalization, sustainable urban planning, and elevated lifestyle opportunities.

Lehigh Structural Steel Site

The Waterfront Allentown: History Reimagined

The Waterfront is located on the historic grounds of the former Lehigh Structural Steel plant (pictured above), a prominent symbol of Allentown’s industrial heritage. Jaindl Properties is converting this once-neglected 29-acre brownfield into a flourishing riverfront destination.

Key features of the transformation include:

  • Mixed-use redevelopment with 1.35 million sq. ft. of vibrant living, work, and recreational space.
  • Class A office buildings attract major businesses and boost employment.
  • Luxury apartments, restaurants, and retail promenades designed for community and leisure.
  • A scenic half-mile riverwalk, reconnecting residents with the Lehigh River.

Lehigh Structural Steel Site Sign

From Industrial Roots to Thriving River District

Once home to the Lehigh Structural Steel plant, this brownfield site had long been an underused industrial eyesore. Jaindl Properties, recognizing the site’s immense potential, undertook the ambitious environmental cleanup and redevelopment task. Leveraging partnerships and incentives such as Allentown’s Neighborhood Improvement Zone (NIZ), the site has been meticulously transformed into an active neighborhood supporting thousands of residents and employees.

Mark Jaindl Speaking at The Waterfront Grand Opening

Economic and Community Impact

The Waterfront is projected to bring a total investment of approximately $425 million to Allentown, substantially contributing to the local economy. This development is expected to:

  • Generate millions in annual property taxes to reinvest in community infrastructure and services.
  • Create thousands of new jobs, significantly enhancing local employment opportunities.
  • Attract new residents, further stimulating local businesses and services.
  • Boost tourism by becoming a regional dining, shopping, and recreation destination.

People Walking Through The Lobby At 615 Waterfront Drive

Highlights of The Waterfront

Key components that distinguish The Waterfront include:

  • Sustainable Design: Environmentally friendly features like green spaces, efficient stormwater management, and riverbank restoration.
  • Mixed-Use Planning: Integrated residential, commercial, and recreational areas, creating a vibrant, walkable neighborhood.
  • Riverwalk and Public Spaces: A scenic public trail, promoting community interaction, wellness, and outdoor enjoyment.

The River Walk at The Waterfront

Learning from National Examples

National examples reinforce the promise and success of similar large-scale redevelopment projects:

  • Baltimore’s Inner Harbor: A classic example of waterfront revitalization that turned abandoned industrial docks into a bustling commercial and cultural district.
  • Pittsburgh’s North Shore: This former industrial area now thrives with sports stadiums, offices, and entertainment venues, illustrating the profound economic benefits of waterfront redevelopment.
  • Washington D.C.’s Navy Yard: Transformed from a disused naval facility into a mixed-use district with offices, residences, parks, and cultural spaces.

The Waterfront positions Allentown among these nationally recognized redevelopment successes, demonstrating Jaindl Properties’ ability to merge history, sustainability, and community-centric planning.

The Waterfront Offices

Why Invest or Lease at The Waterfront?

The Waterfront offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses and residents:

  • Prime Location: Easy access to major highways and transit, and proximity to New York City and Philadelphia.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Modern amenities, vibrant community spaces, and scenic surroundings attract talent and customers.
  • Supportive Economic Environment: Beneficial NIZ incentives make it financially attractive for businesses and tenants alike.

Become a Part of Allentown’s Riverfront Renaissance

Are you ready to join a thriving community reshaping Allentown’s future? Jaindl Properties invites you to explore leasing and investment opportunities at The Waterfront. Join this transformative vision that blends Allentown’s industrial heritage with innovative, sustainable, and community-driven development.

Visit our Portfolio to learn more and connect with our team today.

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