In 2005, HHL Architects was asked to develop a set of design guidelines to assist the city and building owners in improving the quality of the built environment in the Lackawanna Business District. The guidelines were adopted by the City Council and were used in planning and façade improvement efforts in the target area.

Businesses that were renovated included The Front Page, 2715 South Park Avenue, Al’s Grocery, Daisies Cafe, Broadway Bobby’s Pizzeria, and Victoria Center. The guidelines also act as a teaching tool to help building owners better understand and respect older, more traditional forms of urban buildings. The goal is a more cohesive, vibrant and attractive environment to inhabit and to conduct business.