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Board approves change of nonconforming use for graphic‑design office at 640 N. 2nd St.
Summary
The Allentown Zoning Hearing Board approved a special‑exception/change‑of‑use allowing a graphic‑design office at 640 North 2nd Street, finding the building’s prior nonresidential history and current configuration support a low‑impact, two‑person operation with no on‑site clients.
The Allentown Zoning Hearing Board on Feb. 16 approved a request to operate a graphic‑design office at 640 North 2nd Street, concluding the proposed use is a lower‑intensity nonresidential activity compatible with the building’s recent history.
The applicant, represented during parts of the exchange by a relative and a Spanish‑language interpreter, said the business will not receive walk‑in customers: orders will be taken online and finished products shipped or delivered. The applicant said two people would work on the premises on selected weekdays and that the interior is clean but lacks a kitchen, which staff records corroborated; city records showed zero dwelling units listed at the address.
Board members reviewed zoning history and determined the prior nonresidential use had not been abandoned. One member said the proposed graphic‑design office is likely less intensive than previous sewing‑factory uses and could be closer to a permitted home‑occupation if residential features existed. The board voted to permit the change of use and approved the special exception; staff told the applicant to expect a written decision and to contact the zoning office about permits and next steps.
