Lehigh students can vote at new location designed to reduce long lines

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Lehigh University students and South Side residents will vote in a new location tomorrow, following a move designed to improve accessibility and reduce long wait times.

The polling site for Bethlehem’s 3rd Ward—which includes Lehigh’s campus and much of the surrounding off-campus housing—is moving from the Banana Factory on West Third Street to St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church at 474 Vine St. The former church is owned by Lehigh.

Northampton County officials announced the change earlier this year, citing the upcoming demolition of the Banana Factory to make way for ArtsQuest’s new Creative Factory. The shift also responds to concerns about crowding and accessibility during past elections.

During the 2024 presidential election, voters in the 3rd Ward—including hundreds of Lehigh students—faced lines stretching more than 1,000 feet around the Banana Factory. Some waited more than five hours to cast their ballots, with the final votes submitted after 9:30 p.m.

Lehigh students registered to vote in Pennsylvania can continue to use their university ID as proof of identification at the polls, since it includes a photo and expiration date.

Election officials have not yet confirmed how many ballot machines will be available at the new site. Northampton County did not respond to a request for comment.

Pennsylvania voters can find their polling places online through the state’s official search tool.