Would you like a safer Southside? One that grabs the attention of the 20,000 visitors who pass through it each day? One with a fresh appearance and vibrant neighborhoods? That's the whole point of a Community Benefit District proposed by a coalition that includes Lehigh University, Northampton Community College, St. Luke's Hospital, ArtsQuest and several Third and Fourth Street businesses. During a June 25 meeting at Comfort Suites, Landscape Architect and Planner Carter Van Dyke provided about 25 residents with a sneak preview of some of the plans under consideration. Everything will be connected by an "Arts Walk" with colorful paving, festival lights, parklets and art.

Van Dyke, stating that "There's more to Southside than Third Street," wants to draw visitors into the nooks and crannies between Third and Fourth streets. He proposes transforming portions of Vine, Morton, Webster and Filmore streets into festival destinations with outdoor dining, interactive kiosks, green links and parklets. South New Street, near Third, would have a festive streetscape with lighting that could be seen from City Hall.

This idea, Van Dyke said, is based on the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, a world-class urban bike and pedestrian path that connects neighborhoods, cultural districts and entertainment amenities. He explained that, done right, an arts walk would capture the character of the community. He added that parklets, created by having businesses surrender a parking spot here and there, would increase their sales 20 percent. He also proposes reducing the widths of some streets like 40-foot wide Morton Street. At Five Points, he'd plant trees to offset "so much pavement" in that area.

Van Dyke said he wants to give people two reasons to come to Bethlehem instead of one. he argued the Southside should be its own destination, not a "step-child" to North Bethlehem.

The concern raised by most residents is cost. Half of its $500,000 annual budget will come from a tax on property owners, tenants and businesses.

Chris Morales, a Republican candidate for City Council, called the streetscape enhancements a "fantastic idea," but questioned the cost and the funding mechanism. He also questioned whether it's such a good idea to make streets narrower in an area known for traffic congestion.

Lehigh University's Dale Kochard responded that cost options will be explored more closely at their next meeting, currently scheduled for July 10.

One unidentified resident, who stormed out after speaking, wants nothing done at all.

"I know this area better than you do," he said, adding he owns four properties. "We have a major gang problem here. You can put out as many planters as you want. When they drink in the bars, they'll come out and knock the planters over."

Van Dyke responded that this will change as people care more for their property.

Peter Crowell criticized the "contrived" appearance of the artwork on the plans, and Van Dyke agreed that whatever is produced will be more organic and will require the efforts of "many, many people."

Van Dyke stated there will probably be a demonstration project, followed by others over time.