In March 2024, our beloved Downtown Allentown Market (DAM), once the thriving heart of our community, severely cut back hours and is no longer operating at its full potential. This change has deeply affected us, the local residents of Downtown Allentown.

The DAM was more than just a market, it was our community anchor, hosting events, gatherings, and celebrations. Its rich history and vibrant energy made it a delightful spot of convergence, bringing together people from all walks of life. The absence of the DAM's services during the evenings and on weekends has left a significant void – both in our community life and in our hearts. Visitors to the PPL Center, Miller Symphony Hall, and our high quality hotels used to flock to the DAM for a variety of food and drinks before events; now, there are limited options, harming the vibrant dining economy of downtown.

Without the DAM's weekend and evening operations, we have fewer options to dine and host events, which has negatively impacted our beloved Downtown Allentown. Our community activities have greatly diminished, and our social connections have been strained, as we've lost an irreplaceable venue for gatherings and celebrations. Karaoke, bingo, and trivia were great ways to meet neighbors and make new friends, helping to encourage social gathering for our area.

DAM added dozens of part-time and full-time jobs to the local economy, offering a great way for entrepreneurs to start a business and develop a following. However, the limited hours prevent many business from opening due to operational constraints and restricted hours. Reopening the DAM on weekends and evenings would not only re-establish a vibrant community space but also contribute to job growth and economic stimulation.

With your support, we can prompt City Center Group to reintroduce the weekend and evening operations at the Downtown Allentown Market. It's not just about returning a business to its full hours; it's about igniting a spark in our community life again.

We humbly urge you to join us in this endeavor. Please sign our petition to bring back the evening and weekend hours at the Downtown Allentown Market. Make our community whole again. Let's reclaim our vibrant local life and let the DAM once again echo with laughter, conversations, and togetherness.