Lehigh Valley partners with Penrose on affordable housing project funding

A significant development in affordable housing took center stage at the Bethlehem City Council meeting on April 1, 2025, as officials announced a $4 million contribution from the Lehigh Valley Industrial Park (LVIP) towards a new housing project. The initiative, led by developer Penrose, aims to advance affordable housing options in the city, with construction expected to begin in 2026, pending the successful acquisition of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC).

City officials expressed optimism about the project, highlighting the collaborative effort with LVIP and the city's commitment to providing additional funding through its HUD home allocation. The timeline for the LIHTC award is anticipated to be revealed by summer or fall of this year, marking a crucial step in the project's progression.

In addition to the housing initiative, discussions also touched on the status of a new shelter. While plans are in the early stages, it was noted that the current temporary shelter would likely remain operational for the 2025-2026 season, with hopes for a permanent solution by the following year. However, the timeline remains uncertain as officials assess the construction duration and potential impacts on shelter availability during the transition.

Another topic of interest was the accessibility of public bathrooms in downtown Bethlehem. Currently, there are facilities located in the North Street parking garage, but their usage is low due to a lack of awareness among residents and visitors. Council members discussed the need for improved signage to direct the public to these facilities, emphasizing the importance of making them more visible and accessible.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the ongoing challenges at the national level, urging community members to remain united and resilient in the face of adversity. As Bethlehem moves forward with these initiatives, the city council remains committed to addressing the pressing needs of its residents.