1st Ward Homes for Rent

The 1st Ward in Allentown, dating back to 1852, is the city's oldest neighborhood, located along the Lehigh River. Historically an industrial hub, the area has seen many factories vacated by the early 21st century. Recently, the 1st and 6th Ward Neighborhood Plan aims to revitalize the waterfront with new commercial and residential developments. The neighborhood features tight city streets lined with brick and stone row homes and duplexes, some adorned with murals. The area is accessible by foot or bus, making it convenient for residents without vehicles. Children in the 1st Ward attend schools in the Allentown School District, which serves over 16,000 students. Local schools include Mosser or Sheridan Elementary, Harrison-Morton Middle, and Louis E. Dieruff High School, which offers various pathways for student success. Bucky Boyle Park, situated on the Lehigh River, provides multiple recreational facilities, including playgrounds, a splash pad, basketball courts, and baseball fields. Public transit is available through the Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANta), with stops throughout the ward. The American Plaza on American Parkway features small shops, cultural markets, and restaurants like Sarandonga Latin Bistro and Wun Wu Garden. The Riverside Restaurant and Lounge offers outdoor seating and Mediterranean cuisine. Less than a mile away, the PPL Center hosts the Lehigh Valley Phantoms hockey games and various events. The neighborhood plan aims to build more housing, support small businesses, and improve after-school programs, reflecting community input from local residents.