Zoning board approves family childcare use at 339 West Lexington Street

The Allentown Zoning Hearing Board on March 30 approved a special‑exception application to convert a residence at 339 West Lexington Street to a group childcare, with conditions that the operation match testimony given at the hearing and not disrupt neighborhood vehicular traffic. Robert Knauer, who opened the meeting, announced the board’s approval and reminded the applicant to contact the zoning office about formal permits and a written decision.

The operator testified she has run a family childcare for about nine months at the location, currently serves roughly six children at any one time and about 10 children over the course of a day, and operates with two caregivers. The operator said hours would remain the same if the group‑childcare approval is granted: 5:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. A board member said the application presents no deficiencies in the notice and that staff did not identify factors — such as a public‑safety hazard or substantial neighborhood impact — that would justify denial.

One written objection in the file cited double parking and blocked driveways; the board placed limited weight on that letter because the author did not testify and could not be cross‑examined. A board member who moved approval said the decision should include a condition that the special exception be operated as testified — including designated drop‑off areas — and that any blocking of driveways would be subject to enforcement action. The board voted to approve the application by voice vote.

The applicant was directed to await a written decision and to contact the zoning office to confirm whether additional permits are required before making changes to the property.