ALLENTOWN DATA CENTER RECAP

Timeline of Events (Last Updated 6/8/2026)

The Allentown Environmental Advisory Council (AEAC) and the City of Allentown have worked closely together to thoughtfully evaluate and address the potential impacts of data center development in our community. Contact AEAC Chair Kyle Ropski with any questions or concerns AtownEAC@gmail.com. 

In February of 2026, the AEAC provided a letter of comments and recommendations to the Administration. You can read that letter here. 

In March of 2026, the AEAC provided a letter of support to the Administration on a proposed amendment to the zoning code with Bill 20 - Data Center Use. You can read that letter here. 

In April and May 2026, the proposed amendment underwent several procedural reviews, including reviews by the Allentown City Planning Commission (ACPC), the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission (LVPC), and the Allentown City Council Community and Economic Development Committee.

On June 1st, 2026 the AEAC held a public meeting with representatives from the City's Planning and Zoning Bureau to discuss proposed data center regulations in Bill 20 and explain planning and zoning processes. The AEAC also took public comment and review on a letter to be provided to the ACPC regarding the proposed Data Center at 2401 Emaus Ave. You can read that letter here. 

On June 3rd, 2026 the Allentown City Council held a public hearing on Bill 20 - Data Center Use. At the City Council meeting following this public hearing, the Council voted to table the vote on the bill and ordered a Legal Service Request (LSR) to be completed to advise on available options. 

On June 5th, 2026 it was announced that the previously scheduled discussion at the Allentown City Planning Commission meeting on the proposed Data Center at 2401 Emaus Ave was to be rescheduled. A new date has not been announced. 

On June 17th, 2026 the Allentown City Council will vote on the previosuly tabled Bill 20 during their public City Council meeting at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers.