H. Gordon Payrow, Jr.

Harry Gordon Payrow Jr. (February 4, 1918 – April 13, 2004) was an American politician who served as mayor of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania for 12 years from 1962 to 1974. He served as the city's first strong mayor and during his tenure he dedicated himself to revitalizing the city with the construction of the City Center and the Fahy Bridge.

Early life

Born to Harry and Ida Payrow, Gordon was a Bethlehem native and lifelong resident. He attended Bethlehem High School and the Allentown Preparatory school and went on to study business at Lehigh University.

Mayor of Bethlehem Payrow would be elected the 5th mayor of Bethlehem in 1962. He would be the city's first Strong-mayor meaning he was the first mayor that could directly interact with the lawmaking process in the city. One of his most lasting achievements was the construction of the Civic center. However, the funding for the center was rejected in a referendum. He would subvert these results through the city council and build the center regardless. He also oversaw the creation of the Fahy Bridge. His massive renovation projects in the downtown impacted the entire city's day-to-day life as well as reshaping the entire city for generations to come. He also started the Bathlehem Area Jaycees and was their primary sponsor. He decided not to seek a fourth term and retired in 1974.