A community revitalization effort for Center City called Upside Allentown is embarking on a survey of households to find out how residents perceive the quality of living in its program area (see map). A survey packet containing the questionnaire will be mailed to households in the program area starting today, May 15.

The plan is to use the results of the survey as benchmarks, to be compared to the results of a similar survey in the same area 3 or 5 years from now. In-between the surveys, the donors and volunteers that comprise Upside Allentown will be implementing projects and activities intended to spur community action and positive change in the areas of housing, arts and culture, small business development, education, public safety, physical enhancements, workforce development and neighborhood events.

The Community Action Development Corporation of Allentown (CADCA) is sponsoring the survey and has engaged Dr. Michele Deegan, Professor of Political Science at Muhlenberg College and Dr. Kerrie Baker, Professor of Psychology at Cedar Crest College. The survey is voluntary. It will be available in English and Spanish. Survey questions are simple, easy to respond to, and will take only a short time to complete. The survey packet comes with a self-addressed stamped envelope to facilitate returning the completed questionnaire. The survey activity itself is targeted to be completed by the end of June, while the report on its findings will be available in the fall.

For details about the survey, please contact Jesse Sadiua of the City of Allentown at 610-437-7613 (or by email: jesus.sadiua@allentownpa.gov).