BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Three South Side parking lots now are open to transients and permit holders following numerous upgrades, the Bethlehem Parking Authority confirmed Wednesday.
The BPA told LehighValleyNews.com it rehabilitated the Third Street Lot, the Mechanic Street Lot and the Third and Webster Street Lot.
It also plans to rehabilitate another lot by the end of the year, reflecting what it called “an ongoing commitment to enhance the customer parking experience and support the local community.”
"These recent parking lot upgrades represent another important step in our continuous effort to enhance our convenient off-street parking options, which are also designed for longer stays."Bethlehem Parking Authority Executive Director Steven Fernstrom
The lot upgrades include new signage, lighting and enhancements to surfaces, including new pavement and pavement markings.
“Over the past several years, we’ve invested in new parking structures to support the community and local businesses that serve all parking user groups,” Bethlehem Parking Authority Executive Director Steven Fernstrom said in a release.
"These recent parking lot upgrades represent another important step in our continuous effort to enhance our convenient off-street parking options, which are also designed for longer stays."
Fernstrom said the rehabbed lots will enable visitors to enjoy all that Bethlehem has to offer without the concern of maximum parking times.
Work on additional upgrades will begin in the next several weeks and is expected to be completed in 2025, he said.
Holiday Parking
The news comes months after the unveiling of “ParkBethlehem,” a parking management initiative designed to optimize on-street parking in downtown areas.
It also comes just weeks after BPA announced its 2024 Christmas season parking and transportation plan.
The holiday initiative includes expanded parking options, valet services and fare-free shuttles for visitors to enjoy the city’s holiday offerings.
From Nov. 29 through Dec. 21, a special event parking rate of $5 will be offered from 4-9 p.m. Fridays (Friday, Nov. 29, will be Noon to 9 p.m.) and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays at the North Street Garage, Main Street Commons, Johnston Park, West Lehigh Street Lot and the Broad Street Lot.
In the absence of the Walnut Street Garage, certain metered blocks also will be designated 10-hour blocks. These $1.50 per hour meters will be marked with a 10-hour MAX sticker, the BPA said.
The meters will be on East Broad Street between Long and Center streets, and on North New Street between Market and Church streets.
For more information on the lot upgrades and other initiatives, visit www.bethpark.org.
