Posted on October 1, 2019
2019 Great Transformation: South Bethlehem Greenway, City of Bethlehem (Northampton County)
Great Places Healthy Communities Urban Design & Placemaking 2019This strip of land was originally part a thriving passenger and industrial freight line corridor. However, with the demise of rail use following closure of Bethlehem Steel in the mid-1990’s, the corridor became a community eyesore. With a vision to eradicate the blight, spur economic activity, and create opportunities for recreation, the City of Bethlehem stepped up to the plate, acquired the land, and developed the South Bethlehem Greenway Master Plan. An extensive planning process, with considerable public and stakeholder input, culminated with adoption of the Plan in 2005. Implementation of the Plan evolved through many public-private partnerships, financial investment, and community support. These efforts resulted in a vibrant linear park that has had a robust positive impact on the community. It features a walking/biking trail, connections to adjacent neighborhoods, a community garden, public art, and a skate plaza at the eastern end. The greenway is also host to an array of events that attract many residents and visitors. Additionally, this amenity has triggered investment in, and revitalization of, neighboring properties and beyond. The South Bethlehem Greenway clearly demonstrates how many years of planning, collaboration, and strategic thinking can result in transforming a once-blighted and underutilized space into a cherished community asset and economic development driver.

