On April 11, 2024, Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds delivered his third State of the City address at the ArtsQuest Musikfest Cafe, hosted by the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. This event highlighted the city’s progressive strides and Mayor Reynolds’ vision for its future.
Financial Flourishing
Mayor Reynolds opened with a strong note on the city’s financial health, boasting a significant rise in earned income tax from $7 million in 2014 to $11 million in 2022. This financial upturn is part of a broader strategy that has seen Bethlehem pay down $115 million in debt since 2015. Such fiscal prudence is expected to propel city revenues beyond debt payments by 2025, allowing for investments that are rare for cities of Bethlehem’s size.
Commitment to Community Spaces
A significant portion of the address was dedicated to park renovations and community spaces. The city is set to commence a $1.4 million renovation of Friendship Park, which will feature a new basketball court, walking paths, and a splash pad. The project, funded through a mix of federal, state, and private grants, is set to start in fall 2024. Fairview Park has already seen similar enhancements, now boasting new playground equipment and a multisport court, reflecting the city’s dedication to revitalizing public spaces.
Enhancing Walkability and Transportation
Reynolds also highlighted a $10 million investment in improving pedestrian and cycling infrastructure along Broad Street. This initiative, supported by the federal Safe Streets and Roads For All program, aims to enhance safety and accessibility, promoting a more walkable and bike-friendly environment. The improvements are scheduled to start in late 2024 and will include pedestrian bump-outs and new bike lanes.
Community and Health Initiatives
The Mayor did not shy away from discussing ongoing community and health initiatives. Bethlehem has invested over $4.5 million in public safety and health, including distributing free naloxone kits and replacing outdated water infrastructure. Programs like Southside Tomorrow and Northside Alive are catalysts for local development, focusing on creating recreational spaces, improving local infrastructure, and enhancing community life.
Housing and Education
Addressing affordable housing, Deputy Director of Community Development Sara Satullo emphasized the city’s goal to ensure that residents who move away for education or work can return and find affordable living options. This commitment is matched in the educational sector, where Superintendent Dr. Jack Silva noted the efforts to maintain an inclusive atmosphere in schools, which mirrors the community’s diverse and welcoming nature.
A City on the Rise
Closing his address, Mayor Reynolds expressed a heartfelt commitment to the city’s trajectory, emphasizing that Bethlehem’s best days are ahead. He praised the collective effort of the city’s leadership and community members, whose dedication and strategic planning have positioned Bethlehem as a model of urban revitalization.
Bethlehem stands as a testament to effective leadership and community collaboration, underpinned by Mayor Reynolds’ vision of a city that not only adapts to modern challenges but thrives amidst them. As Bethlehem continues to grow and improve, it remains a beacon of hope and a source of pride for its residents and the broader Lehigh Valley region.
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.