Engineered by RETTEW, The Nines at Cityplace apartments in Allentown stands as a testament to innovative redevelopment/urban infill development and is integral to the city’s revitalization efforts. This project navigated the complexities of integrating contemporary infrastructure within an established urban area while emphasizing sustainability.

After the previous building was demolished, RETTEW’s planners maximized land use efficiency by stepping the floor plan due to the amount of grade on such a small parcel. The first floor is commercial, while the rest is residential. As part of RETTEW’s innovative design approach, we reduced the entitlement process by more than six months by successfully challenging a permitting agency’s preliminary determination that this project was part of a Plan of Common Development. The Nines at Cityplace offers premium living spaces with modern amenities, fostering a vibrant and engaging community. The sustainable design incorporates multimodal transportation — including bicycle, parking, and walking facilities — and not only reduces operational costs, but also ensures a healthier living environment for residents.

This project is part of a broader initiative to rejuvenate downtown Allentown, transforming it into a lively urban center. The Nines at Cityplace exemplifies how strategic engineering and sustainable design practices can drive urban renewal, delivering lasting benefits to the community.