Bethlehem's Historic Conservation Commission, a group appointed by the city to help preserve and promote the integrity of historic buildings, discussed three properties at its monthly meeting May 17 at the Banana Factory.

All three properties fall within the South Bethlehem Historic Conservation District, requiring property owners to submit plans of exterior modifications to the commission for review.

First on the agenda was the Hispanic Center Lehigh Valley's proposal to add benches, flags, self-watering planters, and a gateway to the exterior of their 520 E. Fourth St. property.

The project's intent is to increase visibility to the Basilio Huertas Senior Center, which is difficult to see in its current state. None of the proposed modifications will make permanent alterations to the architecture.

The commission approved the project as submitted with the following exception: the benches and planters must be examined by the Engineering Department to assure they will not impede on the right-of-way.

The second property examined was 417 Wyandotte St. This circa 1870 building is part of a row of apartments and storefronts known as Palace Row.

Nationwide's proposal to add a double-sided sign reading "Titan Insurance" to an existing sign bracket was approved.

Upon discussing the crowded storefront, the commission decided that all vinyl signage currently on the window and door must come back for review. Historically one wouldn't fill plate glass completely with lettering.

The third property examined was a 1920 structure built in Renaissance Revival style, located on 817 E. Fourth St. Owner Gerald Alfano's proposal to install signs to the exterior of the building, which houses the South Bethlehem Pharmacy, was approved with some slight modifications.

The proposals approved by the Bethlehem Historic Conservation Commission will be recommended to City Council which has authority to make all final decisions.

Work cannot begin until City Council reviews and approves the plans at their meeting next month.