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Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion Honored with Urban Land Institute Philadelphia Award for Excellence

May 22, 2025

NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Tamara Krizek, tamara.krizek@davincisciencecenter.org

ALLENTOWN, PA, May 22, 2025 – Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion has been recognized with a prestigious Urban Land Institute (ULI) Philadelphia Award for Excellence, honoring its outstanding contribution to urban development and community impact.

The ULI Awards for Excellence recognize projects that exemplify best practices in design, planning, and development. Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion was selected for its innovation, community engagement, and role in revitalizing downtown Allentown. Also recognized was Downtown West, which joins the Science Center as one of only eight recipients of this year’s awards.

“This honor is a testament to the power of visionary partnerships and community-driven design,” said Lin Erickson, Executive Director and CEO of Da Vinci Science Center. “It reflects how the Lehigh Valley is redefining what it means to live, work, and play in dynamic urban environments.”

Representing Da Vinci Science Center at the ULI Awards Ceremony were Dan Bosket, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees; Silvia Hoffman and Todd Chambers of MKSD Architects; Jill Wheeler, Jane Heft, Robert DiLorenzo, and Maddie Stearns from City Center Investment Corp.; Steve Bamford of ANIZDA; and Dan Diaz from the City of Allentown.

The recognition highlights the collaborative efforts of civic leaders, developers, designers, and educators who came together to create a space that inspires curiosity, connects the community, and serves as a beacon of innovation in downtown Allentown.

Many thanks go to the dedicated individuals and partners who made this achievement possible. Their collective effort continues to demonstrate how strategic redevelopment in Allentown and across the Lehigh Valley is meeting community needs while creating vibrant spaces for learning, exploration, and connection.

About Da Vinci Science Center

Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion is a state-of-the-art science and technology center located in downtown Allentown. With interactive exhibits, live science shows, and innovative programming, the Science Center brings science to life for families, students, and lifelong learners throughout the Lehigh Valley and beyond.

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