Sept. 4, 2026
— Jeff Ward, Lehigh Valley News Briefs
Bethlehem is becoming a more vertical city, and not just in the South Side. A developer proposes to demolish several buildings on North New Street in Bethlehem to put up 82 apartments.
The Bethlehem Planning Commission will review the idea at a meeting Sept. 10. No other developments are on the agenda as of today.
The plan for 701-719 N. New St. includes retail space on the first floor and an 84-space parking garage. The image provided of the building shows five floors, while the plans indicate there will be six floors including ground-level parking.
The area now consists of a mix of housing and commercial uses.
The proposal comes from BPG Investments II, a limited liability corporation. The plans show apartments ranging from studios at 485 square feet to two-bedroom units with 1,010 square feet. Amenities include an atrium, gym and party room.
The plans include a rooftop deck and other spaces for residents.
The Bethlehem Planning Commission will meet at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 10 in Town Hall. In addition to reviewing the New Street plan, the commission will review Bethlehem’s five-year plan for capital projects.
Agendas are subject to change. Check the city website closer to the meeting date.
Lehigh Valley News Briefs 
Keep tall buildings outside Historic District on Northside. This is outside the area fortunately but Mayor’s disrespect for Historic District is unforgivable.
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There is a huge deficit in housing in Bethlehem … last estimate was at 1300 units and that was a year ago ….. it’s probably 1500 by now . No one wants new development, but without it rents and housing prices are going to sky rocket even more . 2 bedroom units are getting $2500 a month … that’s crazy ! It’s supply and demand .
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If new apartments are rented by people from outside the city, does that make the housing deficit a moving target?
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Bethlehem is turning into a mini Philadelphia.
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