Make Stefko Blvd Safe for Pedestrians and Cyclists

PennDOT released its vulnerable road user (VRU) survey in late 2023. VRUs include pedestrians, cyclists, and anyone who uses a mobility device. The report identifies high risk areas (HRAs) across Pennsylvania. HRAs are street segments that are unsafe for pedestrians, cyclists, and mobility device users. Using data from this report, I created a map highlighting these unsafe street segments in Bethlehem.

Most street segments are state routes (highlighted in blue lines) which means PennDOT is primarily responsible for their maintenance and design. However, two portions of Stefko Blvd (highlighted in red lines) are city owned streets.

How can we make Stefko Blvd safer for those who walk and roll?

1 - Lower the speed limit on these portions of Stefko Blvd. Currently, these segments are set at 40 mph and 35 mph.

2 - Add sidewalks or mixed-use trail on the East portion of Stefko Blvd between Washington Ave and E Broad St. The undeveloped properties are owned by the City of Bethlehem according to Northampton County tax records.

3 - Narrow the driving lanes to 11 ft.

Sources:

PennDOT VRU Safety Report: A- VRU Safety Assessment Report - Single Pages_Proof 7.pdf

• see page 4-23 for Lehigh Valley identified street segments
• see page 4-46 - 4-47 for Lehigh Valley identified intersections
• see Chapter 6 for infrastructure and policy recommendations

Northampton County: Northampton County - Address Search (ncpub.org)