As beads on the “string of pearls” to Allentown’s ArtsWalk necklace, the Pocket Park and Hamilton Connector projects follow the actionable Center City Landscape Development Plan to enrich connectivity and programming potential along this strategic arts corridor. The Connector unifies the ArtsWalk with Hamilton Street to the south, making opportunity out of challenging topography and an underutilized “slip-through” to bring people into the pedestrianized alley from the bustling streetscape. Seating and performance opportunities are incorporated along the way.

The Pocket Park is an arts-focused community venue for performance and conversation – all the aspects that uplift culture in this thriving city core. Community centered programming, evening illumination, art and identity, inclusive and equitable participation are all at the fore. Robust fixed custom furnishings define threshold, as well as stage opportunities, while broad, sittable steps assist in the transition of significant topography while creating theater-like opportunities for audience gathering. Flexible seating ensures those that wish to do so can find their ideal spot, no matter what the event. This anchoring space adds social resilience to the stimulating linear ArtsWalk landscape.