Bethlehem Township Community Center Getting in Shape

Bethlehem Township's Community Center, first built in 2006 along Farmersville Road, is perhaps the best in the entire Lehigh Valley. A 50,000 sq. ft. multi-use facility, it includes 2 full indoor basketball courts, an indoor walking track, inside and outside pools and separate cardio and weight rooms. Surrounding grounds include trails connecting to the Township's vast park system, as well as baseball diamonds and the Bulldogs' football field. But it needs to get in shape.

Commissioners, at their February 20 meeting, unanimously approved a $36,000 invoice for new equipment already included in this year's budget. Community Center Director Floyd Shaffer has ordered five new elliptical machines, three recumbent bikes and eight spin bikes to include in his current inventory of eight spinning bikes. Later this year, he'll also have a rowing machine in response to member requests, leaving them with no excuse for being out of shape.

In addition to the equipment, Commissioners also unanimously authorized Manager Howard Kutzler to issue a Request for Proposals for architectural and engineering services at the facility. On numerous occasions in the past, Commissioner Michael Hudak has complained about roof and wall leaks, as well as problems with the HVAC. President Paul Weiss cautioned that those wishing to make proposals, which must be kept under $33,000, will be required to participate in a mandatory pre-proposal conference at the Community Center.

In other news, Commissioners unanimously authorized a professional services contract with T&M Associates for architectural services at Housenick Park. No money is being paid, explained President Paul Weiss. "We have not authorized any money for anything," he warned.

Fifty-five acres off of Christian Springs Road near Route 191, including a three-story mansion, were devised to the Township as a park by the late Janet Housenick. It adjoins another thirty-six acres of wetlands along Monocacy Creek, which Housenick conveyed to Northampton County before her death.

Housenick also set aside $2 million, in trust, for park maintenance. Township resident Tim Brady, one of Housenick's three trustees, told Commissioners he is "very interested in seeing this project move forward." While pointing out he is "only one of three," Brady predicts that any expenditures made by the Township will "most likely be reimbursed."

The other two trustees are Bethlehem Attorney Joseph "Jay" Leeson and Northampton County Judge Stephen Baratta.

Commissioners' next meeting is scheduled for February 5, 7 PM, at the Municipal Building, located at 4225 Easton Avenue.