J. B. Reilly ’83, Founder and CEO, City Center Investment Corporation: “Allentown’s Renaissance Man”

In 2011, J.B. Reilly founded City Center Investment Corporation, an award-winning team of individuals on a mission to change the City of Allentown. After hearing about the addition of the PPL arena, Reilly and his colleagues knew they had the opportunity to revitalize Allentown’s downtown district. The Neighborhood Improvement Zone (NIZ), created by state law in 2009, is a special taxing district that encourages investment and development in downtown Allentown. This legislation has contributed to the success of the center city revitalization. Reilly believes Allentown’s rich history, culture, and diversity have been an advantage in the redevelopment process which includes the construction and renovation of restaurants, apartments, condominiums, office spaces, and a Marriot Renaissance Hotel. Mr. Reilly led a walking tour showcasing the completed projects as well as those still in progress.