Austin’s Auto gears up for expansion

BETHLEHEM, Pa. - March 4, 2016 - PRLog -- Austin’s Auto Service at 1843 W. Broad Street in Bethlehem is set to expand its facility by 50 percent to better serve commercial and individual customers. Upon completion, owner Nelson Tavarez expects to hire up to five new employees, in addition to the current staff of nine highly trained technicians, to support the significant increase in customers that the business is seeing.

Business & Community Financing Solutions (BCFSOL) is working with Austin’s to coordinate the project. “Expanding by 50 percent on West Broad Street without government incentives shows the power of partnering and choosing the right people,” says Howard Lieberman, managing consultant with BCFSOL. Tavarez has selected Bonsall Shafferman Architects of Bethlehem, and Jerdon Construction Service and Shafnisky Electric, both of Allentown, to complete the project.

The expansion is but the next step in Tavarez’s multi-career journey. When his dot-com age telecomm employment ended, he qualified for on-the-job training through CareerLink Lehigh Valley, which offers programs that develop, deliver and sustain a quality workforce. A help wanted ad brought Tavarez to Austin’s in 2001. He worked his way from auto mechanic to manager and, in 2010, bought the shop.

Founded in 1977, Austin’s Auto Service prides itself on its highly trained and qualified staff who treat customers’ vehicles as well as their own. They offer a full range of auto repairs, and include local pick-ups, drop-offs and towing. The building expansion adds service bays, a modern customer waiting area with Internet connection and cell phone charging, and a 780-square-foot second floor for offices and training areas. To schedule an appointment, call (610) 866-5440 or visit www.austinsautoservice.com.