Northampton Borough Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Sr. has a vision - a three- or four-story parking deck in the heart of the borough’s uptown business district built at the site of the municipal parking lot on Center Street.

“I’m serious,” Lopsonzski Sr. said of the seemingly larger-than-life idea.

He is working through logistics before formally making a presentation to borough council on the merits of a parking deck to address present and future business and parking needs. There is a business resurgence on Main and Center streets in the uptown that bodes well for the future of business in Northampton Borough, he said.

Lopsonzski Sr. said his idea for a parking deck to replace the Center Street parking facility would dramatically increase the number of parking spaces currently on the lot. The councilman added the benefits of a parking deck would be for the commercial entities, patrons and the community.

The parking deck would be built off 21st Street, on Center Street to Lilac Court. There are a host of businesses in the area, including a dance studio, pet store, insurance office, attorney’s office, the Roxy Theatre and others.

“The plan should include a pathway to connect the parking deck to businesses on Main Street,” Lopsonzski Sr. said. “We would be helping the small shops, the mom and pop stores.”

Lopsonzski Sr. was concerned some of the businesses, especially on Main and Center streets, would look elsewhere because of the limited parking options in the area. This parking deck is his idea to help foster new business and retain the present mix of commercial entities.

In order to make it happen, he said, a partnership with the private and public sector could be developed.

“I will meet with (state Rep.) Zachary Mako (R-183rd) to see what state grants may be available for a parking deck,” Lopsonzski Sr. said. “We have cement companies. It would be good for everyone if they are involved.”

According to Lopsonzski Sr., the names of businesses making financial contributions could have their names on the building.

Also, a bond issue may be part of the funding mechanism, though he explained it is much too early to consider specific figures.

Lopsonzski Sr. said a formal presentation will be made to council when his research is more developed. He wants the borough planning commission and other municipal groups to have a say.