One of Bethlehem's unique gift stores will get Main Street access if the Historical Architecture Review Board's thumbs up on General Manager Dennis Costello's request to add black awnings, signs and two carriage lights near the two currently unused large bronze doors at the left edge of the historic hotel get approval from City Hall.

The Hotel Bethlehem at 437 Main St. already has a gift store in its lower level.Costello wants to move the gift shop from its cramped quarters in the lower level of the hotel to a larger space which also has double door access to patrons strolling Main Street.

"It's just a question of moving things around," said Costello during a tour of the space. He said he is moving the sales office to another room to give the gift shop better access by the public.

The gift shop will also have a small ice cream vending operation. HARB member Beth Starbuck moved to recommend the certificate of authenticity needed before Costello goes before the Bethlehem City Council which makes the final approval probably at its next City Council meeting.

Starbuck included a safety requirement to add large planters beneath the carriage lamps to be mounted on the outside near the doors. This was discussed earlier by the board which was concerned that a pedestrian might bump his or her head.

"It's just a question of moving things around," said Costello during a tour of the space. He said he is moving the sales office to another room to give the gift shop better access by the public.The gift shop also has a small ice cream stand.