City officials unveil streamlined permitting process to ease project approvals

In the heart of Allentown City Hall, a pivotal discussion unfolded as city officials and community members gathered to address the complexities of the permitting process for large-scale development projects. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as Heidi Westman, the director of building standards and safety, and Joe Granzell, the construction and building superintendent, prepared to unveil a new ordinance aimed at streamlining these procedures.

The current system, they explained, has been a source of frustration for both developers and city staff. The process of pulling permits has been described as onerous, with third-party reviews adding layers of expense and difficulty. Many developers found that their plans often did not align with specific city codes, complicating approvals and delaying projects. This new ordinance, however, promises to simplify the process significantly.

Westman and Granzell highlighted the launch of the EnerGov system, which has transformed how permits are managed. With the new ordinance, developers will now be able to submit a single permit application that covers all necessary aspects of their projects—building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing—rather than navigating multiple applications. This change is expected to save time and reduce costs for both applicants and city staff.

One of the most significant changes is the adjustment of permit fees. The new structure will replace various existing fees with a straightforward rate: 1.5% for commercial projects and 1% for residential projects. This simplification aims to make the financial aspect of permitting more transparent and manageable for developers.

Additionally, the ordinance extends the expiration period for permits from one year to five years, aligning with Pennsylvania's construction code. This change addresses a common issue where permits would expire before projects were completed, allowing developers more flexibility to finish their work without the pressure of reapplying.

As the meeting progressed, the officials emphasized the importance of fairness in the valuation of projects. They will utilize standardized data to ensure that all developers are assessed equitably, preventing discrepancies in costs that could disadvantage some applicants over others.

The committee's discussions reflect a broader commitment to modernizing Allentown's approach to community and economic development. With the support of the city council, these legislative changes are poised to foster a more efficient and supportive environment for development, ultimately benefiting the community as a whole.

As the meeting concluded, Westman and Granzell encouraged attendees to stay tuned for further updates, signaling that this ordinance is just the beginning of a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing the city's development processes. The promise of a more streamlined, cost-effective permitting system has left many hopeful for a brighter future in Allentown's growth and development landscape.