POTTSTOWN, PA, May 12, 2025 – Pottstown Area Economic Development (PAED) is accepting proposals for the development of a comprehensive Streetscape Plan and Design for Pottstown’s Downtown, Western Gateway, and Circle of Progress. This initiative aims to elevate the perception of this district, highlight its aesthetic appeal and walkability, and enhance cohesive branding for the Borough.
Funded through a 2024 LSA (Local Share Account) upon PAED’s application, the project seeks to unify the Borough’s visual identity while celebrating the distinct character of each area. “(LSA) is a program funded by a portion of the gaming revenues generated in Pennsylvania… to support projects in the public interest, improve the quality of life for citizens and foster economic development within Pennsylvania communities.” The Plan will provide a strategic vision for improvements including uniformed branded signage, outdoor street furniture & gathering spaces, planters and landscaping, public art, lighting, trash receptacles, bike racks, traffic calming methods, and more. The full Request for Proposal (RFP), including design guidelines, boundary maps, and FAQs, is available here.
The project aligns with strategic recommendations from the Urban Land Institute’s (ULI)* 2019 Advisory Services report, which emphasized placemaking efforts such as temporary parks, outdoor activities, wayfinding signage, and photogenic gateway features to help activate underutilized spaces and support local businesses. This report builds upon ULI’s previous work in Pottstown in 1976, 1989, and 2009.
“This is more than beautification. It’s about shaping a downtown experience that attracts people, supports local businesses, and reflects Pottstown’s evolving identity,” said Peggy Lee-Clark, Executive Director of PAED. “We’re excited to take this step for the LSA Grant Streetscape Plan, as we support the Borough’s long-term vision for revitalization.”
Once a thriving heavily industrialized community, Pottstown experienced a significant decline when those industries closed and left behind vacant environmentally challenged properties. As the leading economic development organization since 1965, Pottstown Area Economic Development (PAED) was established to stimulate investment, which helps maintain and enhance the tax base, retain and create job opportunities, and restores, utilizes or removes under-utilized buildings.
*THE URBAN LAND INSTITUTE (ULI) “is a global, member-driven organization comprising more than 46,000 real estate and urban development professionals dedicated to advancing the Institute’s mission of providing leadership in the responsible use of land and in creating and sustaining thriving communities worldwide.” To learn more visit Uli.org.
For more information about Pottstown Area Economic Development (PAED), please contact Peggy Lee-Clark, Executive Director at 610-575-7233.