Historical Architectural Review Board Appeal Hearing 5/20/26 | City of Reading, PA

This was a Historical Architectural Review Board appeal hearing held by the City of Reading, PA, on May 20, 2026, concerning a certificate of appropriateness denial for a proposed construction project at 42 South 5th Street. The property owner, Alan Schuman representing Fifth Street Holdings LLC, sought approval to construct a one-story rear yard addition with an enclosed porch featuring restored stained glass windows from a historic church. The project involves restoring the porch footprint from the 1880s and enclosing it with protective clear glass over the stained glass windows. The hearing included testimony from the applicant and city historic preservation staff, who noted that the denial was procedural due to vacant historic preservation officer and zoning administrator positions, deferring final approval to city council. The council discussed visibility, historical appropriateness, and design details, with no public comments received. The council will decide on the application at a future meeting by resolution. No direct contract awards or procurement actions were taken during this hearing, but the project relates to historic restoration efforts potentially involving future contracting.