Bethlehem Parking Authority Receives Transit Partner Award from LANTA
The Bethlehem Parking Authority, (BPA) has been honored with the Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority’s (LANTA) prestigious “Transit Partner Award” at the Biennial Recognition Lunch held in Easton. The award, initiated in 2017, acknowledges significant contributions to promoting and facilitating the use of public transportation in the Lehigh Valley.
The BPA was recognized for its exceptional coordination efforts with LANTA to promote the concept of “Park Once.” Through cross-promotional signage for LANTA’s EBS Southside Station at the Polk Street Garage and the introduction of Downtown Bethlehem Shuttle services, the BPA has made significant strides in integrating parking solutions with public transit. These efforts aim to alleviate the impacts of garage development projects and provide seamless transportation options within Bethlehem.
Executive Director Steven Fernstrom and the City of Bethlehem Director of Community & Economic Development, Laura Collins, accepted the award on behalf of the BPA. “Our partnership with LANTA highlights our joint commitment to sustainable and efficient public parking and transportation in Bethlehem. Together, we aim to seamlessly integrate parking solutions with public transit for the benefit of our community. We are excited to continue our collaboration with LANTA and the City of Bethlehem to advance public transportation,” said Fernstrom.
The BPA’s initiatives have led to expanded partnerships in Bethlehem, including the Musikfest Shuttle Service program. This comprehensive mobility partnership between LANTA, BPA, the City of Bethlehem, and ArtsQuest aims to provide a network of transportation options for this year’s festival.
LANTA Executive Director Owen O’Neil praised the BPA’s dedication, noting, “The BPA’s efforts to coordinate with LANTA and utilize existing transit assets and services to meet mutual goals have significantly contributed to the promotion of public transportation in Bethlehem.”