After two nights of testimony, Bethlehem’s Zoning Hearing Board Dec. 12 cleared the way for a 70-unit apartment complex at what used to be called the Floyd Simons Armory on Second Avenue. The board voted 3-0 to grant numerous dimensional variances The biggest of these allows the project to move forward with 99 on-site parking spots instead of the required 123. Voting in support were Bill Fitzpatrick, Jim Schantz and Attorney Mike Santanasto. Two other members of the board, Gus Loupos and Attorney Linda Shay Gardener, were unable to participate.

Attorney Micahel Shay filed, representing the Mount Airy Neighborhood Association, asked the board to strike the testimony of Planning Director Darlene Heller on the basis that she was essentially acting as a witness for developer Michael Perrucci. That motion was also denied, 3-0.

According to the Pa Municipalities Planning Code, a Planning Director may testify in any matter. She testified that she was there to relay the recommendation of the Planning Commission.

There are no plans for the Armory itself.