The Historical and Architectural Review Board tabled a proposal for a double-sided “halo lit” hanging sign proposal for 516 Main St. at the July 20 meeting held at the Rotunda.

Representing SWBR Marketing & Media, Evan Blose from FastSigns had difficulty explaining the new technology behind the internally-illuminated white acrylic and aluminum signage to the commissioners. While modern internally-lit box signs are not allowed under historic guidelines, Blose explained that the design he represented works differently.

He said there is “no direct lighting involved.” The entire panel does not light up, just the edges of the routered push-through letters, which create the “halo” effect.

The board studied a few printed examples of this type of signage for other businesses, but none that were of hanging signs.

Mike Simonson and Diana Hodgson expressed concerns about possibly setting a precedent with the new technology that all would regret in future. The commissioners also balked at the 6-inch thickness of the frame of the LED sign. Most hanging signs are much thinner.

The applicant was asked to return with more details, including a model, if possible, as well as a “Plan B.” In the meantime HARB members will observe examples of these types of signs in the field from a list Blose is to provide.

The three-story ornate building is owned by CTI-PA Investments.

Three straight-forward roofing proposals were easily issued certificates of appropriateness. All involved replacing worn asphalt shingles with GAF Slateline shingles in Antique Slate and copper flashing, which follow established guidelines.

Successfully representing Amy Santanasto at 402 High St. and her neighbor Kenneth Weidner at 404 High St. was Sal Basile from Paul Wright Roofing. The two families live in attached older red brick twins.

Homeowner Robert C. Marshall scored a COA for replacing the shingles on his house at 54 E. Wall St. and carport behind it. The stone façade home is part of a row of attached houses built circa 1977 on the former site of the 1892 George Neisser Public School.

All voting was unanimous at the meeting chaired by Connie Postupack.

The HARB regularly meets the first Wednesday of every month to review all exterior changes proposed to buildings in the Bethlehem Historic District north of the Lehigh River. When a proposed project receives a certificate of appropriateness from the board, applicants must wait for city council to vote on it before proceeding. Meetings can be viewed on YouTube.