A proposed modular building at Midway Manor Elementary School in Allentown’s East Side has drawn the ire of the neighborhood.
The structure itself, a 9,856-square-foot, 10-classroom modular building that would be constructed to expand Sonia Sotomayor Dual Language Immersion Academy, is not the problem. But to make room for it, Allentown School District would demolish a smaller modular building and an adjoining “maintenance building” that serves as a community concession stand that helps raise funds for several community programs.
The possibility of losing that stand brought community members to Tuesday’s Lehigh Valley Planning Commission’s Comprehensive Planning Committee meeting.
“This snack shed is kind of like the heart of our community,” said Alice Romberger, vice president of the Midway Manor Community Association. “We can provide funds to support the soccer program. It’s allowed us to foster a sense of good neighborship.”
In its review, the LVPC said the project supports the goals of FutureLV, the commission’s master plan, because of its investment in improvements to education facilities, which enhances economic growth.
Commission member Chris Amato requested that language be added to the letter urging the school district to work with the community and consider the impact of losing the stand before proceeding with demolition.
The amended language was approved by the committee and the full draft letter will be presented to the full LVPC at Thursday’s meeting. If approved, it would go to city officials who will make the final decisions.
Jennifer Gomez, Allentown’s director of planning and zoning, urged residents to attend the next Allentown Planning Commission meeting March 10, which will include the Midway Manor project.