BETHLEHEM, Pa. – From splash pads to brand-new playgrounds, Bethlehem is laying the groundwork for a decade of park upgrades.

It’s a block party with a purpose. Bethlehem city residents gathered at Madison Park Monday to weigh in on major proposed upgrades.

“I hope they could upgrade it. I’m praying they do, because she doesn’t like coming over here,” said Bethlehem resident Lenyse Clavell. “There’s really nothing to play over here for her.”

Neighbors spoke with leaders and placed stickers on blueprints to vote for new features like splash pads, walking paths and upgraded playgrounds.

“I’m kind of tired of coming to Madison Park to hang out with my friends, and we have, like, nothing to do,” said Samara Campbell.

It’s part of Bethlehem’s 10-year master plan to revitalize more than 40 municipal parks across the city.

“Public space is not something that should go uninvested in. And so, we’re sparing no expense,” said Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds. “It’s new playgrounds, new basketball courts, if the engineering allows it, new water features as a way to be able to bring people together.”

City leaders like Mayor William Reynolds say public spaces like this are vital for building a stronger community.

“We live individual lives. People live on their phones. People live in their houses,” said Mayor Reynolds. “And that’s really kind of the deep philosophy behind this, is that parks and public spaces bring people together. So, then we’re able to fight bigger fights together about what it truly means to be a part of America.”

As for what residents want to see? The wish lists were clear.

“I’d put, like, some water slides and a pool,” said Efren.

“They should definitely, like, add some slides, some more fun activities for kids to play on,” said Shaylene Dyett.

Planning is expected to wrap up this fall, with construction on Madison Park expected to finish by late fall 2027.

“We’re doing community engagement now. We’ll do all the engineering, all the planning. In the fall, we’ll put the project out to bid, and then this park will be done by the end of next fall,” explained Mayor Reynolds.

You can learn more about the projects by visiting We Build Bethlehem’s website.