In the heart of Pennsylvania, Southside Bethlehem has experienced a series of transformative developments, each aimed at enhancing urban life while preserving the historic charm of this vibrant community. From completed infrastructural upgrades to ongoing projects fostering public spaces and community programs, Southside Bethlehem stands at the crossroads of its rich heritage and a dynamic future. Here’s a reflective look at the completed projects alongside the anticipation of what’s to come.
Polk Street Garage: Enhancing Accessibility
The groundbreaking of the Polk Street garage in early July 2021 was a significant stride toward improving accessibility in Southside Bethlehem. This development wasn’t just about adding parking space; it represented a gateway to the cultural and historical riches of Southside, emphasizing the community’s commitment to convenience and accessibility for both locals and tourists.
Memorial Pool: A Revitalized Community Jewel
By mid-June 2021, the newly-rebuilt Memorial Pool welcomed the public back, symbolizing a dedication to community wellness and recreational activity. The pool’s reopening was more than a seasonal celebration; it was a testament to the resilience and dedication of the community in providing quality amenities for enjoyment and health.
Historic Integrity vs. Modern Development
In a bid to preserve the historical integrity of Southside Bethlehem, the Bethlehem Historic Conservation Commission rejected two high-rise development proposals in 2021. These proposals, seen as threats to the historical essence due to their height, included one from Posh Properties along West Third Street and another for South New Street. Nevertheless, a nine-story building on New Street was approved, striking a balance between modern development needs and historical preservation.
Walkability Improvements and Cultural Center Development: The Road Ahead
A recent announcement detailed a $900,000 investment from a state grant aimed at enhancing the walkability of a section of Third Street near the Hill-to-Hill Bridge. This grant will fund new sidewalks, streetlights, and crosswalks, particularly around the ArtsQuest’s Banana Factory complex, marking a commitment to safer and more accessible pedestrian areas.
Concurrently, ArtsQuest has unveiled plans to demolish the existing Banana Factory to make way for a new five-story, $28 million cultural center. This project is still in the planning stages, with improvements to the surrounding sidewalks and streetscape being integral to the future success of the cultural center. The design aims to invite and encourage pedestrian activity, playing a crucial role in the area’s ongoing revitalization efforts.
Southside’s Tomorrow Plan: Shaping the Future
The “Southside’s Tomorrow” plan, approved prior to the recent developments, sets a visionary course for the community. Through a partnership led by Community Action Development Bethlehem, this initiative commits $325,000 annually for six years towards youth development, community engagement, public spaces, and housing advocacy, embodying a holistic approach to community enhancement.
Reflecting on the Journey
The juxtaposition of completed and ongoing projects illustrates the dynamic evolution of Southside Bethlehem. Past initiatives like the Polk Street Garage and Memorial Pool reopening reflect a foundation of growth and community enhancement. In contrast, the future holds promising developments like the Third Street walkability improvements and the Banana Factory redevelopment, each signaling continued commitment to making Southside Bethlehem a more vibrant, accessible, and culturally rich community. As we celebrate the achievements so far, the anticipation for what’s yet to come underscores a bright future for Southside Bethlehem, where the past and present coalesce to create a thriving urban landscape.
Christopher Smith, the publisher of this website is a lifetime lover of music, great food, fishing and local bars. After moving to the Lehigh Valley in 1992, he quickly discovered the charm of Historic Bethlehem, also known as Christmas City, with it's cobblestone streets, amazing restaurants, Artsquest and of course, Musikfest.
While living in the Reading area for the past 25 years, Christopher frequently ventured back to the Bethlehem for Musikfest, fishing the Lehigh, floating the Delaware River and exploring the Monocacy Creek, as well as enjoying many of the bars and restaurants he loves.
Having moved back to the area recently, you will find him fishing the Lehigh for smallmouth bass, frequenting Tapas On Main, enjoying the Pan Seared Scallops at the Apollo Grill or sipping an Old Fashioned at McCarthy's.
Join him as he shares his love for Bethlehem and the evolution of a city built on silk and steel, but transformed into a modern oasis of fun that offers enjoyment and excitement for everyone.