2025 Council President's Report
Twenty twenty-five marked Bethlehem’s first full year on the UNESCO World Heritage stage. A September 6 community celebration was held on and around Payrow Plaza to commemorate the Inscription and Bethlehem's contributions as part of the transnational Moravian Church Settlements site.
City Council was pleased to enthusiastically support this celebration as well as the efforts leading to Bethlehem's inclusion on this prestigious list of world landmarks. Council also continues to support its partnership in this venture with the City providing the site coordinator and contributing toward the salary of the site manager. The World Heritage distinction brings recognition, honor, and many visitors to Bethlehem to see all that makes our city special.
Twenty twenty-five also saw the fruits of labor paying off as approved plans and signed contracts led to a redeveloped Walnut Street Garage re-opening in late November. The 517-spot, $27 million project was completed on time to welcome Christmas shoppers...as promised.
And more was set in motion in 2025 for the coming year and beyond. These actions took place during 24 regular Council meetings and 11 committee meetings. In addition, Council conducted 20 hours of budget hearings spread over four nights. The year's body of work led to passage of 57 ordinances and 188 resolutions. Key action included review leading to the first major revision of the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance in 50 years.
Some of Council's other actions contributed to the closing of the Greenway Trail Gap and significant improvements to the Monocacy Trail. Council also has been pleased to authorize grant applications and contracts leading to the near completion of a revitalized Friendship Park. Meanwhile, plans progress to improve all City parks within the next 10 years through the 40-in-10 plan. Similarly, Council enthusiastically supports the Complete Streets Plan as it aims to make our City thoroughfares safer and more welcoming to all – motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. This plan will integrate a redevelopment of Broad Street beginning in 2026, converting this area to a safer and more appealing corridor.
On the subject of redeveloped streets, Council also has been eager to authorize the redesign of Linden Street to restore two-way traffic flow. This effort is expected to begin in March and wrap up in fall. Plans to do much the same with Center Street are not far behind.
Council also has been committed to supporting efforts to improve affordable housing and combat homelessness. Some of these projects include the Gateway on 4th, plans for a new Bethlehem Emergency Shelter, and the redevelopment of Pembroke Village. Funding was sparked by community recovery money from the pandemic a few years ago, and progress continues as various aspects reach milestones toward completion.
Finally, as we near the end of this, our last meeting together as a council, I wish to thank Ms. Crampsie Smith and Ms. Wilhelm for their many contributions. I also want to welcome Mr. Amann and Ms. Daniels to the new council as we look forward to what they have to offer. Also, after four years, I'll be passing the gavel to a new president. My term as this body's leader has expired, but my Council term will continue. It was a pleasure to serve you as a council as well as the residents of the City of Bethlehem. My role may change a bit and I will be seated slightly to my left, but my commitment to do what is right for the betterment of this City will not.
Thank you to all for the opportunity.
Sincerely,
Michael G. Colón
President of Bethlehem City Council
January 5, 2026