Aug. 20, 2026
— Jeff Ward, Lehigh Valley News Briefs
The Bethlehem Planning Commission will take a look next week at a proposal for 18 studio apartments in a three-story building on Stefko Boulevard.
The 1438 Stefko location is owned by Fred Ronca. The property is between Peeps maker Just Born and More Miles Automotive.
The plan submitted to the city says the small apartments will help ease a housing shortage.
Each unit ranges from 478 to 488 square feet, featuring a single-room, open-concept layout that maximizes functional living within a smaller footprint.
Every apartment is equipped with a kitchenette including a compact refrigerator and a four-burner stove, providing residents with the ability to prepare meals affordably at home. Every floor includes a shared laundry facility, offering residents convenient access to full-size washers and dryers.
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Here’s a look at the proposed layout of first-floor units:
For more, see this link to the city website and the project presentation.
So one way to cut down space is not to include laundry in each unit. Some people won’t mind but it could be a dealbreaker for others.
The project will meet or exceed local building codes and be ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) compliant, according to the plan.
The apartments would be a little more than half the size of a pickleball court (880 square feet).
The proposal is for a three-story building with six units per floor; 16 regular parking spaces and one handicapped space. That is 17 parking spaces for 18 units.
“The design philosophy centers on delivering dignified, comfortable housing” at lower cost, leading to lower rent, the presentation says.
The Bethlehem Planning Commission will meet at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 25 in Town Hall. No final decision will be made on the Stefko plan but recommendations may be passed to City Council.
The commission will also review the proposed 65 homes on land known as the Gold Tract on Township Line Road. Only 19 of the homes will be in the city limits, with the rest in Bethlehem Township. That proposed development covers 55 acres between Route 22 and Monocacy Creek.
Review of zoning changes to limit data centers is also on the agenda.
Here is a link to the meeting agenda. Agendas are subject to change. Check the city website closer to the date.
Wonder why only 3 stories high if the mayor can ramrod an Allentown type 7 story building in our most sacred Historic district?
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This is a good project. We have an affordable housing crisis right now, Bethlehem alone is short over 1300 units according to all the data. Workforce housing is in dire need and this is a perfect location , close to a grocery store and public transportation!
Bryan Callahan
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Something similar but larger was proposed for a building right off 378 a few years ago. I don’t think it got to the building stage.
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The contractor and builder of this proposed project will provide quality apartments. A family member has had first hand experience living in one of their units and is very happy and content. First class construction with quality finishing at an affordable price.
JG
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kudos to this developer- WE NEED AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN BETHLEHEM and these units look beautiful!!!
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Great Idea we definitely need affordable housing here in Bethlehem. Great location with shopping in walking distance and transportation close! Will definitely help someone who needs a safe and clean environment to live.
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This already looks like it’s going to be the most aesthetically pleasing apartment building in a few-mile radius. I think it’s a really great idea that developers are thinking about hardworking people who deserve a place to rest their head at night within close proximity to everything. I hope it gets approved because the last time I drove through that area, I didn’t see one nice house. It’s be nice to see a little bit of redevelopment around those parts of the great city of Bethlehem.
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