MPC Allentown seeks zoning permit for 18 apartment units on West Chew Street

In the heart of Allentown, a pivotal zoning hearing unfolded on March 31, 2025, as city officials and community members gathered to discuss a proposed transformation of a historic property located at 943-951 West Chew Street. The building, a two-story structure built around 1900, currently houses five residential units on the second floor, while the first floor remains largely unused, serving primarily as storage space.

The applicant, MPC Allentown, sought to convert the existing structure into 18 apartment units, a significant increase that raised concerns among zoning officials. The proposal was met with a denial from the city’s zoning officer, Mike O'Toole, citing several reasons for the rejection. Key among these was the issue of parking; the current nonconforming status of the property would require an additional 19 parking spaces to accommodate the new units, a challenge that loomed large over the proposal.

During the hearing, the dimensions of the lot were clarified—measuring 100 by 110 feet—and it was noted that the building occupies nearly the entire space. The zoning classification of the property as RMH (Residential Multi-Household) further complicated the discussion, as it is designed to support a different type of land use than what was being proposed.

As the meeting progressed, the applicant assured the board that all proposed units would meet the minimum requirements for efficiency, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. A breakdown of the proposed units revealed a mix of six two-bedroom and twelve one-bedroom apartments, all designed to comply with local regulations.

Photographic evidence was presented to illustrate the current state of the property, showing its beige exterior and multiple access points, including a single loading dock that has never been utilized since the property was acquired in June 2022. The lack of a curb cut for vehicle access raised further questions about the practicality of deliveries and the overall functionality of the building as a residential space.

As the hearing drew to a close, the board was left to weigh the implications of the proposed expansion against the backdrop of community needs and zoning regulations. The outcome of this meeting could set a precedent for future developments in Allentown, highlighting the delicate balance between growth and compliance in urban planning. The community now awaits the board's decision, which will determine the future of this historic property and its role in the neighborhood.