Bethlehem to Vote Tuesday on Demolition on South New Street, Facade to Come Down But Be Inspiration; Bring on SangriaFest

May 3, 2026

— Jeff Ward, Lehigh Valley News Briefs

Bethlehem City Council will vote Tuesday on whether demolition can proceed on South New Street, and whether the “inspiration” provided by the brick facade there is sufficient.

The city’s Historic Conservation Commission (HCC), an advisory body, supports knocking down the buildings at 319 through 327 S. New St. in favor of a seven-story apartment building with 42 one- and two-bedroom units.

The buildings to be brought down include the old Pat’s News Stand.

The HCC had asked the developer to save the “historic Italianate facade” at 321-23 S. New St.

That isn’t going to happen. Experts for developer Rafael Palomino said that would not be practical. Instead, that facade will “serve as design inspiration” for its replacement.

That’s an interesting fallback position, but the experts’ case was strong.

City Council will also vote on a permit for SangriaFest, an ArtsQuest event.

The festival will be held May 16. Sangria is an acquired taste, perhaps, and I haven’t acquired it.

Here are some details from the festival’s website:

Enjoy unlimited samples of 12 different sangrias, including returning favorites: Red Berry, Cranberry Lime and White Peach flavors among others.

This event is 21 and older only. No one, including designated drivers, 20 years old and younger will be allowed into the event.

Note, from the website, general admission tickets can be purchased by non-members for $52.50 if they buy them early, and designated drivers will pay $16.75. There will be entertainment.

Bethlehem City Council will meet at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 5 in Town Hall. Here is a link to agenda items.

Agendas are subject to change.