ALLENTOWN, Pa. – The Allentown Planning Commission tabled a land development plan for two flex commercial buildings Tuesday afternoon at city hall.
The project, offered by applicant Michael Minervini who is the project engineer, is scheduled for 1813 Green Street. The proposal would provide storage space for mechanical, electric and plumbing businesses.
Steep slope issues required the design of two separate buildings and parking lots, according to Minervini. Planners opted to send the steep slope review to the zoning hearing board for their verdict. The commission also directed Minervini to implement sidewalks into a general project redesign.
Residents who spoke during public comment said the concept was acceptable but the proposal lacked specifics.
City officials noted on Jan. 1 the city will implement code changes.
Townhome Project
Planners granted a preliminary land development plan for six proposed townhomes at 401 Harrison Street.
The two-story buildings with re-loaded garages would be constructed on currently vacant land. Neighboring residents spoke about flooding, snowplowing and parking issues. The site has an approved sewer planning module.
Chairman Christian Brown said there are “safeguards” in the code addressing some concerns. Planner Jeff Glazier wanted additional “due diligence” done before he would grant final land development approval.
Allentown Parks
The planning commission received a presentation on the city’s park system.
“Our City in a Park” focused on 2025 developments and future initiatives. Public input garnered from various meetings identified safety, restrooms and shade as top concerns. The plan contains costs associated with site master plans for three of the city’s major parks: Bucky Boyle Park, Fountain Park and Roosevelt Park.
Total estimated project costs for Bucky Boyle are $3.6 million, with Fountain registering at $18.5 million and Roosevelt at $2.5 million.