In a show of transparency and community spirit, city officials and key community representatives spent two hours providing a public update on Opening Doors: Strategies to Build Housing Stability to nearly 100 residents, on May 15.

This initiative, aimed at developing safe and affordable housing through a five-year plan, is the result of a yearlong study into the housing situation in the city, completed last fall.

Director of Community and Economic Development Laura Collins said, “A key priority is looking for the resources for people, whether that’s education or health care. Also, what are the physical resources in the neighborhood, such as green space.”

Two community meetings have already been held on the west side of the city to dialogue with community members about housing priorities.

According to Collins, community discussions will continue over the next two years. The goal is to develop a plan in time for the next round of grants under the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

A few weeks ago, the city received a federal grant of $850,000, geared toward the Alley House Project and addressing the affordable housing situation in Bethlehem.

Alley House Project, a partnership between the city, Lehigh University, Community Action Lehigh Valley and New Bethany, was highlighted as a pilot project.

The main house on West Broad faces the street. The Alley House will be built in the back, with expected rental revenues for the next 15 years.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) are also being considered. They are seen as a viable option for seniors and young adults. They allow for multigenerational families to cohabitate, while providing a sense of independence.

How to address wrongful evictions and ensuring those truly in need of help qualify for any type of housing aid are examples of some of the concerns raised by those in attendance.

Over the summer, there will be more consultations and field trips around the city with community partners to continue the dialogue on finding concrete solutions to the housing crisis Bethlehem is facing.

The next update is expected in the fall.