Facilities and parks projects highlighted in Bethlehem's capital plan, including 40-in-10 parks study and Rose Garden work

City facilities and parks projects were included in the draft 2026'2030 capital plan presented to the Committee of the Whole. Public works staff described a facilities capital program that budgets recurring funds for major building maintenance and targeted projects such as a City Hall chiller replacement and an underground fuel storage tank replacement. Staff also said a generator for City Hall was purchased but delivery issues may carry that work into 2026.

The administration described a study to evaluate an extension of the Eastern Avenue fire station to accommodate larger apparatus. On parks, the administration said the 40-in-10 parks and recreation master plan is nearing completion, expected in late November into December, with a public meeting scheduled for Nov. 12 to review draft recommendations. The CIP includes recurring ground- and facilities-related allocations (staff cited typical two-year allotments such as $1,000,000 for facility capital and $400,000 for grounds every two years) and earmarks funding for pools, ice rinks and park amenities.

Rose Garden improvements are underway with trail work completed and final site furnishings (lighting, benches and receptacles) expected to be installed; staff said the project will likely be completed this year but retained in the plan in case items roll into 2026. Staff also described ongoing tree inventory work required under the forestry master plan and regular park maintenance funding to address unanticipated repairs.

These projects were presented for informational review; staff said many of the capital investments reflect maintenance needs and efficiency or energy improvements that tie into the city's climate action considerations. No formal vote was taken by the committee.