Meeting Intelligence Preview
Meeting Summary
The Allentown Zoning Hearing Board denied a variance application for 928 West Chew Street to subdivide a 4,600 sq ft lot into two lots and construct a new single-family dwelling on the rear lot fronting Oak Street. The board found no legal hardship since the property already has a reasonable use as a single-family home for over 100 years, and expressed concerns about expanding nonconformities by creating two narrow lots from one already nonconforming lot.
Key Decisions (1)
Variance for Subdivision at 928 West Chew Street
928 West Chew Street Associates LLC sought variances to subdivide a 4,600 sq ft lot into two lots (2,000 sq ft and 2,600 sq ft) and construct a new single-family detached dwelling on Lot 2. Requested variances included: lot width of 20 feet instead of required 40 feet, zero foot side yard setback on western lot line instead of required 4 feet, and 54 foot front yard setback instead of required zero feet under TNDO. The board denied the application finding no legal hardship exists since the property has been reasonably used as a single-family dwelling for over 100 years, and the proposal would expand nonconformities.
Development Activity (1)
928 West Chew Street Subdivision
Proposed subdivision of 4,600 sq ft lot into two lots with new 1,800 sq ft single-family dwelling (615 sq ft footprint) on 2,600 sq ft rear lot fronting Oak Street. Project received Lehigh County Affordable Housing Trust Fund grant. Existing dwelling on front lot would retain access to parking via pedestrian easement.
Market Signals (2)
Housing Demand
Applicant testified that Allentown has a housing shortage and proposed affordable housing unit to address demand, with existing property already participating in housing choice voucher program.
Sentiment
Board expressed concern about expanding nonconformities in historic districts and emphasized form-based considerations for new development in traditional neighborhoods.