The zoning map amendment sought to address inconsistencies in zoning that arose from the construction of the Walnut Street Garage in the 1970s. The City’s Planning Commission recommended approval with a 4 to 2 vote, and the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission also supported the amendment. However, public comments expressed skepticism, with some attendees viewing the change as a workaround to bypass community preferences. Others supported the amendment for its potential to foster development in the Central Business District.

A related topic of discussion was the requested street vacation for a portion of Walnut Street, intended to improve walkability and livability by narrowing the street, extending the sidewalk, and adding street trees. The administration and the petitioner, representing the Bethlehem Parking Authority, supported the vacation, citing community and corridor improvements. Councilwoman Grace Crampsie Smith and Councilwoman Colleen S. Laird raised concerns about the impact on public utilities and ADA compliance. Public comments varied, with some residents supporting the vacation for pedestrian safety enhancement and others, like H. Bruce Haines of Hotel Bethlehem, pointing out issues such as traffic congestion and the lack of a bus unloading area.

The council meeting also heard from residents on a diverse array of concerns. Margo Ging shared a personal account of traffic troubles during a medical emergency, calling attention to the city’s traffic infrastructure and emergency response capabilities. Other residents, such as Michael Bianco and Doug Lidle, questioned the transparency and necessity of the street vacation and its potential effects on traffic and parking.

Beyond zoning and street changes, the council also tackled the issue of replacing the Walnut Street Garage. The debate touched on topics ranging from the garage’s architectural design and its fit with federal historic standards, as voiced by members of the historical har board, to the financial aspects of the project. Financial advisor Scott Shearer spoke to the shift from general obligation debt to guaranteed revenue bonds, noting the city’s financial strength and credit rating while also cautioning about the financial burden associated with the project’s increased budget.

Council members held a vote on a Certificate of Appropriateness for the garage replacement, which resulted in a rejection with a 5-2 vote after a thorough discussion on the design, height, and neighborhood impact. Councilwoman Crampsie Smith stood firmly in support of HARB’s decision and the preservation of historic guidelines, while Councilman Callahan called for a new design that would respect the historic district’s character.

Additional topics covered during the meeting included a resolution to destroy outdated records in compliance with the municipal records retention act, the recommendation of a contract for AECOM to update the EPA-required risk management plan, and the approval of a use permit agreement with Touchstone Theater for various events and activities.