Sustainability program earns Bethlehem Parking Authority state award

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The city’s parking authority has received a statewide award for its sustainable practices, officials said Thursday.

“We’ve had some great support from Mayor [J. William] Reynolds and the city of Bethlehem and Sen. Lisa Boscola,” said Steven Fernstrom, the authority’s executive director, in a news release announcing the award. “We are committed to continuing our efforts to minimize our environmental impact and promote sustainable practices.”

• The Bethlehem Parking Authority has earned the 2023 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence
• The award was granted for the authority’s Park Green Program
• Through the program, more than 50% of the authority’s fleet is made up of electric vehicles

Officials from the state Department of Environmental Protection and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council granted the authority the 2023 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence for its Park Green Program, a sustainability initiative.

Fernstrom said the authority is “thrilled to receive this prestigious award."

The Park Green Program “aims to reduce environmental impacts by focusing on realistic and attainable goals targeting the organization's daily operations,” according to the release.

Through the program, more than 50% of the authority’s fleet is made up of electric vehicles; there are electric vehicle charging stations in all city parking garages and several parking lots; all garages and lots have efficient LED lighting; and idle times at garage exits have been reduced through digital ticketing, according to the release.

In addition, the authority has committed to building new garages using sustainable design standards, initiated a “Sustainable Idea” incentive program for employees; and partnered with the Bethlehem Area School District to lead after-school programs on sustainability.

For more information about the award, visit www.dep.pa.gov.