Previous Programs and Projects of the Community Housing Office

Community Housing used Community Development Block Grants to improve the Community --- one block at a time --- where our families live, work and play. Façade grants are provided to income qualified owners/landlords (as available) to complete exterior repairs. Improved blocks promote cleaner and safer neighborhoods. That in turn increase property values and improve the quality of life for the residents. 

The properties along South 8th Street, from Union to Walnut, are part of an ongoing Gateway Improvement Project. Utilizing a Community Development Block Grant, the City completed 9 façades. 

The properties in the 800, 900, and 1000 blocks of Walnut Street, are part of an ongoing Gateway Improvement Project. Utilizing a Community Development Block Grant, the City has completed 24 façades. 

Community Housing uses Community Development Block Grant funds (as available) to help with home hazards. Badly leaking or collapsing roofs, loss of heat, and broken water lines can create a financial hardship for a homeowner. This program is available to income qualified homeowners and requires a lien to the property.

In 2016, the City of Allentown received a 1.3 million dollars Federal HUD grant. The goal was to make 53 homes Lead-Safe. These were homes where children had been reported as having an elevated blood lead level. Other work completed included: 138 lead risk assessments, outreach and education to over 2,000 people, and lead abatement training opportunities to 18 local contractors.