The Historic Preservation Commission meets at 7PM unless otherwise noted.
Historic Preservation Commission
Purpose:
The Historic Preservation Commission exists for the protection, enhancement and preservation of sites, buildings, and structures of historic, cultural, or architectural value within the Historic District of the Borough of Allentown. The HPC promotes the educational, cultural, economic, and general welfare of the Borough of Allentown through the development and maintenance of these historic settings. The sites impact distinctive aspects of the borough that serve as visual reminders of Allentown’s historic and cultural heritage.
Regarding approval of changes to historic sites, the HPC is an autonomous part of Allentown governance but in relation to the Allentown Planning Board it exists for advisory purposes and does not supplement the zoning ordinances of the Borough of Allentown.
- Safeguard the heritage of the Borough of Allentown by preserving resources within the Borough that reflect elements of its cultural, social, economic and architectural history;
- Encourage the continued use of historic landmarks and to facilitate their appropriate reuse;
- Maintain and develop an appropriate and harmonious setting for the historic and architecturally significant buildings, structures and districts within the Borough;
- Discourage unnecessary demolition of historic resources and inappropriate building or development;
- Encourage the appropriate maintenance and preservation of historic districts;
- Enhance the visual and aesthetic character of the Borough;
- Promote the conservation of historic districts and sites and to invite voluntary compliance.
Property Owners and the HPC:
Residential and commercial property owners in the Allentown Historic District and the Historic Preservation Commission have a mutual interest: preserving the value of your historic property within the district. Over time, you may consider making changes to the exterior of your historic property or grounds. Aside from minor, ordinary maintenance, property owners must submit a HPC application for approval of changes to the exterior of buildings and grounds. Click on the following links for answers to your questions:
1. Is my property in the Allentown Historic District?
https://allentownboronj.com/vertical/sites/%7B7748EEEB-2391-4653-8B6A-4A64C85A6D79%7D/uploads/Histroric_District_Map_SHPO_revised_May_3_2018_(3).pdf
https://allentownboronj.com/vertical/sites/%7B7748EEEB-2391-4653-8B6A-4A64C85A6D79%7D/uploads/Histroric_District_Map_SHPO_revised_May_3_2018_(3).pdf
2. How do you apply for approval?
3. What information is needed to apply?
https://allentownboronj.com/vertical/sites/%7B7748EEEB-2391-4653-8B6A-4A64C85A6D79%7D/uploads/HPC_Application_2024(1).pdf
4. What are the guidelines for acceptable changes?
https://allentownboronj.com/vertical/sites/%7B7748EEEB-2391-4653-8B6A-4A64C85A6D79%7D/uploads/AllentownNJ_HistoricGuidelines.pdf
5. Are there specific guidelines for signs in the Historic District?
6. Is there information on the history of historic properties?
https://www.nj.gov/dep/hpo/hrrcn_sandy_MON_GB_133_136_139_PDF/MON_GB_136_ID7827_Allentown.pdf
7. When and where does the HPC have meetings?
All meetings take place in the Allentown Borough Hall, 8 North Main Street at 7:00PM on the dates indicated.
Other Information: