Planning Commission considers five-year postponement for Dolphin Street sidewalk project

The Allentown Planning Commission convened on April 8, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on sidewalk construction and postponement requests related to the Dolphin Street project and the D&L Trail.

The meeting began with a presentation regarding the Dolphin Street project, where representatives expressed concerns about the timing of sidewalk construction. They argued that due to a lack of immediate demand and the potential for a larger generation of users in the future, it would be prudent to postpone the project. The representatives proposed a five-year postponement, emphasizing that the school involved is willing to grant necessary easements for the D&L Trail and to cover construction costs for the trail segment on their property.

Following this, staff members provided a report on the postponement requests, noting that there are several related requests in the area, particularly concerning the Tiger Den property. The staff highlighted that previous postponements for sidewalk construction have been extended to 2026 and 2028. They indicated that while the applicant has included sidewalk segments in their plans, these segments are currently postponed.

The discussion also touched on the D&L Trail, with staff anticipating construction to begin in 2026 or 2027. They clarified that the city views sidewalk postponements as a delay of requirements rather than an elimination, meaning that any agreed alternative configurations would still require formal postponement.

In conclusion, the Planning Commission acknowledged the complexities surrounding the Dolphin Street sidewalk project and the D&L Trail. While there is a general preference for moving forward with sidewalk construction now, the commission will consider the proposed postponement and the implications of future developments. The meeting underscored the importance of coordinating sidewalk construction with ongoing and future projects to ensure connectivity and accessibility within the community.