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South Whitehall planners approve new Planned Innovation, Research and Technology Overlay District

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  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, September 12th 2025 at 15:49 GMT by WFMZ-TV
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South Whitehall Approves Bold Innovation District: A Blueprint for the Future of Lehigh Valley Tech

Allentown, PA – In a decision that could reshape the economic landscape of the Lehigh Valley, the South Whitehall Township Planning Commission gave the green light today to a pioneering Planned Innovation Research and Technology Overlay District. The approval, announced in a press release on the WFMZ website, marks the first time a township in the region has adopted a formal overlay district designed to accelerate technology‑based research, attract high‑growth companies, and create a collaborative ecosystem for entrepreneurs and universities alike.

A Strategic Vision for the Valley

South Whitehall’s move is part of a broader, region‑wide strategy that has gained traction over the past decade. In the wake of the COVID‑19 pandemic, local governments in the Lehigh Valley – including Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton – have been actively courting innovation clusters as a means of diversifying the regional economy. The overlay district is modeled after similar initiatives in neighboring towns, such as the recently‑approved Innovation District in Bethlehem, and reflects the township’s commitment to fostering a high‑tech workforce that can compete on a national scale.

The district’s core focus will be on research and development (R&D) in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, cybersecurity, and biotechnology. By bundling zoning incentives, streamlined permitting, and infrastructure upgrades, South Whitehall aims to lower the barrier to entry for start‑ups and established firms alike. The overlay will also provide a “fast‑track” approval process for projects that align with the district’s objectives, reducing the typical bureaucratic lag that has historically slowed down tech investments in the area.

What the Overlay District Means in Practice

According to the township’s Planning Commission, the overlay district will cover a 15‑acre parcel that currently houses a mix of light industrial facilities and vacant land. The district will be subdivided into two zones:

1. Research & Development Zone – This area will be open to firms conducting high‑tech research, prototype development, and pilot projects. Incentives will include tax abatements, utility rebates, and a “technology grant” program for qualifying R&D projects.
2. Innovation Hub Zone – Designed to support start‑ups and incubators, this zone will offer flexible leasing terms, access to shared lab facilities, and preferential access to the township’s planned high‑speed fiber‑optic network.

The township will also allocate a portion of the overlay to public‑private partnerships (PPPs). For instance, the South Whitehall Innovation Center – a 30,000‑square‑foot building currently under construction on the edge of the district – will serve as a flagship space for research collaborations between local universities, private firms, and venture capital investors.

Economic Impact & Funding

Economic development experts predict that the overlay district could generate as many as 1,200 jobs within the next decade. A study commissioned by the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation (LVEDC) estimates that every new high‑tech firm attracted to the district could add between $5 million and $15 million in economic output to the region.

South Whitehall’s mayor, Dan DePonte, highlighted the role of state and federal funding in supporting the overlay’s infrastructure. The township has secured a $3.2 million grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) to fund the construction of the high‑speed fiber network and to provide initial grants to start‑ups. Additionally, the federal Small Business Administration’s (SBA) “Innovation Acceleration Program” is slated to provide seed capital to the first five firms that lease space in the Innovation Hub Zone.

Community and Stakeholder Reactions

Reactions within the township have been overwhelmingly positive, though not without some reservations. Local business owners, particularly those in the manufacturing sector, welcomed the opportunity to diversify into higher‑value tech markets. “We’ve seen a shift in the industry. If we can combine traditional manufacturing with advanced tech, it’s a win-win,” said Karen Smith, owner of a precision machining shop on Route 22.

However, some residents expressed concerns about potential increases in traffic and changes to the township’s rural character. The Planning Commission addressed these issues by incorporating strict design guidelines and zoning buffers that preserve the historic look of South Whitehall’s core communities. They also committed to a phased approach, ensuring that the first wave of tech firms would be selected based on their ability to maintain low‑emission operations and community engagement.

Looking Ahead

With the overlay district now approved, South Whitehall will proceed to the next phases of implementation. These include finalizing the master plan, securing additional funding, and launching a marketing campaign to attract national and international firms. The township’s website – accessible through a link in the WFMZ article – will provide detailed timelines and application procedures for interested developers.

The overlay district is expected to be fully operational by 2026, with the first tenants moving into the Innovation Hub Zone in early 2027. The township plans to conduct an annual review of the district’s performance metrics, adjusting incentives as needed to ensure sustained economic growth.

A Model for the Region

South Whitehall’s approval of a Planned Innovation Research and Technology Overlay District sets a new benchmark for the Lehigh Valley. By creating a focused, incentive‑rich environment that nurtures high‑tech R&D, the township is paving the way for a diversified economy that can weather future disruptions. As local officials, business leaders, and residents work together to turn the district into a vibrant ecosystem, the Lehigh Valley stands poised to emerge as a national hub for innovation and technology.