Zoning board approves Ridge Avenue special exception; requires backyard open space remain intact

The Allentown Zoning Hearing Board on Oct. 13 approved a special exception for property at 322–324 Ridge Avenue, allowing the applicant to revise earlier plans and convert the building’s first floor to a single three‑bedroom residential unit.

Chair Robert Knauer said the applicant returned with revised plans prepared by Lee Architectural Associates (revised 08/29/25) that reduced the originally proposed number of units. Applicant Raul Echeverria testified the new layout includes a shared laundry area in the rear and that the first floor would be a three‑bedroom dwelling.

Board members discussed parking and neighborhood character during testimony. The applicant and counsel explained parking would use spaces within the garage and in front of it; the board examined photo evidence and street view to confirm the layout. Zoning staff noted a dimensional deficiency: the ordinance requires 2,000 square feet per dwelling unit and the existing building provides 1,653.3 square feet for the affected unit.

Member Scott Unger moved to approve the special exception, stating the revised plan required less relief than the prior application and put the first floor to a useful purpose. A second added a condition that approximately 1,000 square feet of backyard open space remain as shown on the exhibit and not be converted to impervious coverage or private patios. The board accepted that condition and voted in favor.

The motion passed unanimously. The approval is recorded as a new decision by the board; any required permits and conditions noted in the board’s order remain subject to completion by the applicant.