The Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority’s Allentown Transportation Center (LANTA ATC) is an award-winning transit plaza that prioritizes sustainable strategies and public enjoyment for Lehigh Valley commuters. RETTEW provided essential civil engineering services for this 1.64-acre plaza, developed through a partnership among LANTA, the Allentown Parking Authority, and the City of Allentown. The ATC serves as the central hub for LANTA, accommodating 3,000 passenger trips daily. The innovative design allows riders to make bus transfers without leaving the platform, enhancing convenience and accessibility.

A standout feature is the origami-inspired bus shelter pavilion with a green roof that captures stormwater, reducing runoff by approximately 7,500 gallons. This living roof, consisting of over a dozen species of sedum plants, also helps mitigate the urban heat island effect. The pavilion includes ADA-accessible furnishings and bike racks that double as lean rails, ensuring comfort for all users. The project also features vibrant murals, native plantings, and brightly colored structural forms, creating a nostalgic yet contemporary atmosphere. Another phase of the project introduced a new streetscape with bus pavilions and reconfigured bus bays, further enhancing the area.

This project has transformed the terminal into a vital community hub adjacent to a new 250-unit residential building. The ATC won one of the Urban Land Institute’s Awards for Excellence in the Open Space Category, highlighting its innovative design and significant impact on the community.