Oct 01, 2019

Bethlehem’s Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan (November 2015) recommended that the Town “explore opportunities for on-leash dogs in selected town parks.” Currently, animals are not allowed in most Town parks, except for the Town Dog Park, Moh-He-Con-Nuck Nature Preserve (leashed dogs allowed), and on the public road that runs through Henry Hudson Park.

At the request of the Parks and Recreation Department and in accordance with the Friends’ mission and Strategic Plan, we accepted this task. In the winter of 2018, Friends of Bethlehem Parks and Recreation sought the community’s opinion to help develop recommendations for updating Town park dog policies. Nearly 1,200 people weighed in on this issue. Results can be found in The Community Survey Report (December 2018). A second report, Research Report and Recommendations (August 2019, rev. September 2019) including policy and facility research, input from Town administrators, survey findings, and recommendations, is now available.

Based on these recommendations, the Parks and Recreation Department made a recommendation to the Town Board at its September 25, 2019 meeting to allow dogs in Town parks, with restrictions. A public hearing on this issue will be held at the Town Board meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 10, 2019 at 6 p.m. Members of the public are encouraged to share their views.

The Reports

• The Community Survey Report (December 2018)

• Research Report and Recommendations (August 2019, rev. September 2019)

Nov 22, 2019

Spend the day with Friends in Boston!! Attend the Boston Flower & Garden Show. This year’s theme is “Garden Party: Celebrating Friends & Family” -- for more information, visit bostonflowershow.com.

Or spend the day your way – explore the North End, go to the New England Aquarium, walk the Freedom Trail, visit one of the world-class museums, or take advantage of Boston’s unique shopping scene.

The bus will leave Elm Avenue Park at 8 a.m. and return at 10 p.m. The cost is $66 per person for the bus and a discounted Flower Show ticket, or $50 for the bus alone. The cost includes a driver’s tip, an afternoon shuttle from the Flower Show to Faneuil Hall, and a donation to Friends of Bethlehem Parks and Recreation.

Print out the flyer, complete the form, and submit your payment by February 14.

Questions? Contact us.