Under Chapter 680 of the Laws of 2002 enacted General Municipal Law Section 209-cc, requires the annual reporting of the presence of wild animals (for example, certain cats, dogs, snakes, monkeys). Each person owning, possessing or harboring a wild animal as set forth in Section 209-cc must report its presence to the Municipal Clerk´s office on or before April 1 of each year.The form for reporting, list of animals and information about the law is available at https://www.dhses.ny.gov/notification-presence-wild-animals.

If after visiting the aforementioned web page as well as NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services > Office of Fire Prevention and Control > State Fire's General Public Resources web page (scroll down to see Reporting the Presence of Wild Animals), please call the Town Clerk´s office.

Although the weather is starting to warm up, all Town playing fields are currently closed.  The fields remain very saturated and are not ready for use but please check here first.

The typical target date for reopening fields is mid-April, but conditions will ultimately depend on the weather and field conditions.

For additional information, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 518-439-4955 ext. 2131.

Thank you for your cooperation!

Parks and Recreation Department web page.

The dog park is temporarily closed because of extremely wet conditions.  This is preventative maintenance and is done in effort to maintain the long-term health of the park, specifically the grass turf.  The grass is still dormant this time of year and very sensitive just after winter thaw, if/when those areas are stripped away it can take many weeks to recover or worse be lost for the season. Maintenance will continue to monitor conditions and reopen as soon as possible.  

2026 TOWN OF BETHLEHEM FARMLAND OPPORTUNITIES

AGRICULTURAL USE LEASE, Round 2 (Weisheit Road Farmland) 

Request for Applications (RFA) Packet (click here for copy)  

Application Deadline for Weisheit Road is: Friday April 10, 2026, no later than 3:00pm. 

Submit via email to Lauren C. Axford, Open Space Coordinator: laxford@bethlehemny.gov

Or

In person or by mail to:

Attn: Lauren C. Axford, Open Space Coordinator

Department of Planning and Economic Development, Room 203

Bethlehem Town Hall 445 Delaware Avenue Delmar, NY 12054

Overnight Waterline work along Delaware Avenue will resume on 3/9.  Work will be completed by Peter Luizzi & Bros. Contracting between 7:00PM and 7:00AM (overnight).  Waterline improvements will proceed at the intersections of Delaware and Plymouth, Mason, Elsmere, Normanskill, Euclid, and Burhans.

• Traffic will continue both directions at all times along Delaware.
• Side streets could be closed at times during overnight work – follow all Detour signs.
• All driveway access to businesses will remain open during construction – Please continue to support our local businesses!

Elsmere Detour Expected This Wednesday 3/11 and 3/18 Starting 7PM

Daytime Transportation work expected to begin March 23. The bulk of the roadway’s complete streets elements (sidewalks, crosswalks, medians, gateway treatment, repaving and striping) is expected to start at the eastern portion of the road by the Normans Kill bridge.  Work is anticipated to continue through November 2026.

Thank you for your attention to safety and your patience during construction.

Stay Informed

The Town will provide regular updates through its website, email newsletter, and social media.  Updates will include construction timing, traffic impacts, safety reminders, and progress photos.

Weekly email updates, sign up here:  http://eepurl.com/hzl9k5

Project webpage:  Delaware Avenue Complete Streets Project

Facebook link:  Delaware Avenue Complete Streets

Instagram link:  @DelAveCompleteSt

Please click here for a printable copy of this notice including a map of the Elsmere detour.

The Town of Bethlehem is now accepting applications for startup businesses through the Microenterprise Grant Program.  Applicants can request a grant amount from $5,000 to $35,000 for start up costs.    

For this program, a startup business is defined as one that has been operating for six months or less. All other program eligibility requirements remain in effect, including:

• The business must have five or fewer employees, including the owner(s)

• The business must be located in the Town of Bethlehem or have a clear plan to operate within the Town

• The owner must either:

  • Qualify as a low- to moderate-income individual, or

  • Commit to creating at least one job for a low- to moderate-income employee

Application deadline: April 15, 2026

For more information, contact:Brianne Connerbconner@bethlehemny.gov518-439-4955 ext. 1189

Program details and application materials are available here:https://www.townofbethlehem.org/709/Microenterprise-Grant-Program

The Town of Bethlehem has awarded Microenterprise Grants to six local small businesses as part of its continued investment in economic development, entrepreneurship, and job creation. This round of grants marks the continuation of Bethlehem’s successful Microenterprise Grant Program, which was awarded $200,000 in 2025 to support emerging and expanding businesses within the Town of Bethlehem. The grants are funded through the New York State Office of Homes and Community Renewal and are designed to support businesses owned by low-to moderate income individuals and/or businesses that create job opportunities for low-to moderate income families. Following a competitive review process conducted by the Microenterprise Grant Application Review Committee, the following six businesses were approved by the Town Board on February 25, 2026:

• Amelia's Garden
• Clay Art Studios
• Cora Muse
• Corning Hill Gardens
• Upstate Accounting and Tax
• Wellness on Delaware

Additional funding remains available in this round specifically for startup businesses.  The Town anticipates opening another application period soon for eligible startup enterprises with five or fewer employees that have been operating for six months or less.

The Town of Bethlehem in Albany County, N.Y., received a Gold award from the New York Association of Town’s (NYAOT) inaugural Towns of Excellence Program.

There is a NYS DEC burn ban in effect from March 16, 2026 through May 14, 2026.  Visit the NYS DEC Open Burning Page for more information.

The Town of Bethlehem Police Department dispatchers often receive numerous calls of deer as well as bears seen in town.  During spring, whitetail deer habits begin to change as they become more active.  Callers have reported bears after a bird feeder and/or garbage.  Please follow the precautions as noted in the DEC newsletter excerpted below.  Please report problems with black bears to the Regional Wildlife Offices.

Engineering Internship

The Town of Bethlehem is seeking to hire an Engineering Intern for the summer of 2026.

Paid internships are designed to give college level engineering track students practical experience in municipal engineering. A combination of field and office assignments will be primarily focused on water, wastewater, stormwater management and highway disciplines. Interns will work alongside staff in the Engineering Division to inspect facilities such as stormwater outfalls and construction sites for regulatory compliance. Interns will use electronic field collection methods including iPads and survey grade GPS equipment. Office work includes assisting engineering staff with a wide range of tasks. AutoCAD/Civil3D and ArcGIS software will be routinely used. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Candidate must be enrolled in an accredited engineering program. 
• Internship requires a Driver’s license. 

Preferred Skills/Qualifications:Civil or environmental engineering major is preferred.Previous experience with AutoCAD/Civil3D is strongly preferred but not a prerequisite for this position. 

Job Type: Temporary, 37-1/2 hour week, 10-week minimum commitment.

Hourly Rate: $19.38

Please send resumes to hr@bethlehemny.gov, by April 1, 2026

The town has a parking ordinance in effect each year from November 1 through April 15 whereby no vehicles are allowed to be parked on any town roads between the hours of 1:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. regardless of the weather.  For more information on the ordinance, please use the Justice Court web pages.

Our Water Department employees work very hard to keep the fire hydrants cleared and accessible at all times.  The Town of Bethlehem has over 1600 fire hydrants spread out over many miles of the water distribution system.  If you have a fire hydrant in front of or close to your property, please help to ensure the visibility and accessibility of the fire hydrant.  Snow, weeds, shrubs, trees, flower beds, etc. can all hinder the use of a fire hydrant, so keeping them clear at all times is imperative.  Please help to keep the fire hydrants clear and your neighborhood safe.

Please contact the water department to report an obstructed fire hydrant (518) 439-4955 option 4.

Important Winter Reminders from the Department of Public Works

Water Pipes & Water Meters

Due to the extreme cold winter weather, the Department of Public Works would like to remind our residents of ways to avoid frozen water pipes and meters. Property owners are responsible for protecting their water pipes and water meter (interior or exterior) from cold air and wind.

Follow these tips to keep the water safely flowing to your taps all winter long.

• Check water pipes near uninsulated or drafty walls, doors, floors and windows, including in your basement, garage or attic. Add insulation wherever you can. Insulating or wrapping pipes can also help protect against freezing.
• Keep all exterior doors and windows tightly closed. Fill cracks in walls and around doors and windows.
• Keep garage doors and windows closed, especially if you have an attached garage.
• Locate the main shut-off valve to your home. Show all household members how to turn it off if a pipe bursts in your home.
• Keep heat on at all times and keep the temperature set well above freezing.
• Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes along outside walls.
• In extremely cold temperatures, let faucets drip.
• If your water meter is in an outdoor pit, check to see that the pit cover fits properly and has no cracks through which cold air can flow.
• Never use a torch or open flame to thaw a pipe.
• If you see or suspect damage to your water pipes, call a licensed plumber for assistance.
• If you see or suspect a frozen or damaged water meter, please call the Department of Public Works Water Department at (518) 439-4955 option 4.

Fire Hydrant Clearing

The Town of Bethlehem has over 1600 fire hydrants spread out over many miles of the water distribution system. If you have a fire hydrant in front of or close to your property, please help to ensure the visibility and accessibility of the fire hydrant. Snow can reduce visibility, access and hinder the use of a fire hydrant, so keeping them clear at all times is imperative.  Please help to keep the fire hydrants clear and your neighborhood safe.

WATER ODOR UPDATEDecember 15, 2025

As confirmed by the Albany County Department of Health,Bethlehem’s Water Is Safe To Drink

We’ve set up a dedicated phone line for water-related concerns:518-694-4640Please utilize this line to report any issues, and we will make it a priority to resolve them as quickly as possible.

Response Updates:

We have continued to see very positive results system wide where the taste and odor has dissipated completely!  The Town will continue to monitor the system closely to ensure the positive results are maintained.  If you experience taste or odor issues, please contact our office and we will flush the system as necessary.

Update (November 28-  December 12)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system
• See below for earlier actions

Flushing Home Plumbing

Once the water mains in your area have been flushed, it is recommended that each residence flush their own plumbing.  Run a cold water faucet in your house for about 15 minutes to bring in fresh water from the water main out in the street.  If the musty smell dissipates, then flush hot water tank.

Chlorine Odor

Chlorine odor is normal and different than the musty smell.  It has more of a slight chemical smell. Chlorine disinfects the water to ensure safety and is required by law.  All chlorine levels are being closely monitored and remain within the regulatory limits set for safe consumption.

Where can I get more information?

Town website www.townofbethlehem.org/ and select the Water Quality tab for Press Release, answers to Frequently Asked Questions, and additional documentation.  Subscribe on the Town website to receive water updates on the “Notify Me” link. Enter email address and click on the “Main (Home Page) News” near the bottom.

Who do I contact if I notice a musty smell or have questions?

• You may call our dedicated phone line for water-related concerns at 518-694-4640.
• Paul Penman, Commissioner of Public Works, ppenman@townofbethlehem.org, 518-439-4955 option 4.
• Max Ferris, Director of the Division of Environmental Health at the Albany County Department of Health at Maxwell.Ferris@albanycountyny.gov or (518) 447-4620.

Week Summary (November 21 -  November 28)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (November 7 -  November 21)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (October 31 -  November 7)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (October 24 - October 31)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (October 17 - October 24)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (October 10 - October 17)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (October 3 - October 10)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (September 26 - October 3)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (September 19 - September 26)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (September 12 - September 19)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (September 5 - September 12)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (August 29 - September 5)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (August 22 - August 29)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (August 15 - August 22)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (August 8 - August 15)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (August 1 - August 8)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (July 25 - August 1)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (July 18 - July 25)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (July 11 - July 18)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (July 4 - July 11)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (June 27 - July 4)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (June 20 - June 27)

• 1 resident notification received regarding musty smell – our field staff assessed and determined that it was an isolated incident and not related to an algae bloom
• Continued monitoring of the reservoir, and continued treatment to suppress algae – no algae blooms in the reservoir
• Flushing specific areas in response to resident notifications
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (June 13 - June 20)

• 2 resident notifications received regarding musty smell – our field staff assessed both and determined that they were isolated incidents and were not related to an algae bloom
• Continued monitoring of the reservoir, and continued treatment to suppress algae – no algae blooms in the reservoir
• Flushing specific areas in response to resident notifications
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (June 6 - June 13)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (May 30 - June 6)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (May 23 - May 30)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (May 16 - May 23)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (May 2-May 16)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (April 25-May 2)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (April 18-April 25)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (April 11-April 18)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (April 4-April 11)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (March 28-April 4)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (March 21-March 28)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (March 14-March 21)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (March 7-March 14)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (Feb 28-March 7)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (Feb 22-28)

• No resident notifications received regarding musty smell
• Daily monitoring of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (Feb 16-22)

• Flushing specific areas based on resident notifications
• Daily sampling of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (Feb 9-15)

• Flushing specific areas based on resident notifications
• Daily sampling of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (Feb 2-8)

• Flushing specific areas based on resident notifications
• Completion of flushing areas with persistent challenges
• Daily sampling of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (Jan 26-Feb 1)

• Flushing specific areas based on resident notifications
• Flushing areas with persistent challenges
  1. North Bethlehem near Albany City Line (The Concourse)
  2. Delmar (Fernbank, Hawthorne, Western, Rowland Groesbeck)
• Daily sampling of water throughout distribution system

Week Summary (Jan 19-25)

• Flushing areas with persistent challenges
  1. North Bethlehem near Albany City Line (The Concourse, Russell Rd, Front Ave)
  2. Hudson Ave, Gardner Terrace, Albright
  3. Elm Estates, University, Fairlawn, Marsdale, Barry Ct, and side streets
• Daily sampling of water throughout distribution system
• Flushing specific areas based on resident notifications

Week Summary (Jan 12-18)

• Regional system flushing in Glenmont area:
  1. Jefferson, Manor neighborhoods
  2. Windham Hill, Oberlin, Bryn Mawr neighborhood
  3. Journey Lane neighborhood
  4. Milltowne, Huntswood, Brookhaven neighborhood
  5. Bender Lane area at Columbine, Fields End  neighborhood 
• Flushing specific areas based on resident reports

Week Summary (Jan 5-11)

• Regional system flushing in Delmar:
  1. Bethlehem Middle School area
  2. Fernbank Ave.
  3. Elsmere area, Dumbarton and Poplar neighborhoods
  4. Area south of Rte 32 bypass to Feura Bush Road: Elsmere Ave, Murray Ave
  5. Elm Ave, Fairlawn Dr, University St
  6. Hasgate Dover neighborhood
  7. Juniper Dr, Park Edge
  8. Honeysuckle Way and Summerset Way neighborhoods
  9. Brightonwood, Commonwealth, Quincy neighborhoods
  10. Jefferson, Manor neighborhoods
• Flushing specific areas based on resident reports

Week Summary (Dec 29-Jan 4)

• Regional system flushing in Delmar:
  1. Four Corners neighborhoods
  2. Herrick Groesbeck neighborhoods
  3. Salisbury Euclid neighborhoods
  4. Hamagrael neighborhoods
• Flushing specific areas based on resident reports

Week Summary (Dec 22-28)

• Regional system flushing in Delmar:
  1. East of Cherry Ave neighborhoods
  2. Town Hall neighborhoods
  3. Four Corners neighborhoods
• Flushing specific areas based on resident reports

Week Summary (Dec 15-21)

• Continue flushing the 6-million gallon New Salem tank. Water exiting tank has been odor free for 6 days. Daily monitoring of tank for odor.
• Regional system flushing drawing odor free water to:
  1. New Scotland Rd in the vicinity of Fisher Blvd 
  2. North Bethlehem in the vicinity of Russell Rd
  3. Slingerlands area between Delaware Ave and Kenwood Ave
  4. Delmar area around Cherry Ave
• Flushing specific areas based on resident reports

Week Summary (Dec 8-14)

• Installed and started up new powdered activated carbon system at the New Salem Water Treatment Plant to remove odors.
• Aggressively flushed the 6-million gallon New Salem tank (which is the tank nearest to the reservoir).
• To push new water into the system and pull out water that may have the musty smell, we have started an aggressive flushing schedule. The flushing will move from New Scotland Road towards the Town lines in North Bethlehem (Guilderland) and from the Town lines in the western part of Town (New Scotland) and work our way into the center of Delmar.

Multi-Week Summary (Nov 1-Dec 7)

• Thanks to just received approvals from the NYS Dept. of Health, we are now adding potassium permanganate at the New Salem Water Treatment Plant.  This chemical is very effective for addressing odor issues.
• We are working with the NYS Dept. of Health to get a permit to install a powdered activated carbon system at the new Salem Water Treatment Plant.
• With climate change bringing us warmer falls, we have modified our algae treatment schedule to be based on water temperatures rather than the date (which worked well for decades, but not now).
• We have purchased technology so we can undertake algal monitoring in-house rather than by an outside laboratory. This will allow for quicker responses at the plant if we detect changes in the reservoir water.
• We are investigating additional technologies for treating odor and taste issues in the Water Treatment Plant, such as activated carbon filters.
• We are undertaking a major flushing program to pull fresher smelling water into our 227-miles of water mains as quickly as possible.

Hydrant Flushing Map

Updated 2/28/25

Each hydrant can take up to 3 hours to flush.  The water department has flushed 949 hydrants.

Hydrant Flushing Map

Updated 3/21/2025

The Bethlehem Office of Emergency Management provides information on many safety issues. A National Grid Guide to Natural Gas and Electric Outage Preparation and Safety has been posted on the office's web pages that proves to be helpful year round.

Beginning on February 22, 2010 all homes in New York are now required to have a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is called the silent killer. It´s odorless, tasteless and colorless. Breath in large amount and it can kill you. Amanda´s Law is named after Amanda Hansen, a 16-year-old from who died from CO poisoning in Erie County. "Her family lobbied for this. The law was passed. This is a good thing," said Pete Lattanzio, chief of the Colonie Department of Fire Services. Lattanzio is working to get the word out. So is Lowes in Colonie. Walk into the store and a display of CO detectors is one the first things you will see. So where´s the best place to put a CO detector? "If your appliances are in the basement people think that´s where I have to put the detector. We don´t want them there. We want them in the living area," Lattanzio said. Put it in the same place you put your smoke detectors. The United States already requires smoke detectors on every level of every residence near all sleeping areas. So many things in your home can emit carbon monoxide, including hot water heaters. If the power goes out and you choose to use a kerosene heater, that can do it too. ******************************* Carbon Monoxide Detectors Made Mandatory It’s a silent killer that is an odorless and colorless gas and claims hundreds of lives each year. One local fire department is reaching to warn people about the hazards of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is impossible to see, taste or smell. It can come from gas-fired appliances, charcoal grills, fireplaces and motor vehicles. The Medina Fire Department said it is not only important to have a carbon monoxide detector in your home, it is the law in New York. “Previously, they had the law for any new homes or homes that were up for sale. But with the death of Amanda Hansen of West Seneca last year, it prompted them to revise it to all residents because she was not in a home that was new, or being sold… so there was not a requirement for carbon monoxide detectors,“ Jeffrey Elsenheimer, a firefighter for the village of Medina said. Amanda Hansen tragically died last year while sleeping at a friend’s house that had a carbon monoxide leak from a defective boiler. Jeffrey Elsenheimer, a firefighter for the Medina Fire Department said there are about 500 deaths in the United States each year and about 20,000 emergency room visits due to carbon monoxide exposure. “If you can reduce that number, even it’s a small percentage, it’s still helping to save lives and keep people from becoming ill,” Elsenheimer said. To help do that Elsenheimer suggests putting the detector near sleeping areas and outside individual bedrooms. He suggests a model with an audible warning signal. If you don’t have one the fire department may be able to help you out. “Because we recognize the importance of having smoke detectors, and with the passage of Amanda’s Law, the fire department is definitely going to consider looking into carbon monoxide detectors as well,” Elsenheimer said. With it soon being the law to have carbon monoxide detectors in every home, what happens if you don’t? “Well, we´re not going to come knocking on your door and say, ‘We’re here to check to make sure you have them,’ but should there be an incident, it’ll be one of the things we´re checking for at your house. It’s not to impose a penalty on you, but to ensure the safety of yourself and your family,” Elsenheimer said.

IS YOUR HOUSE OR BUSINESS STREET NUMBER LEGIBLE AND VISIBLE? In accordance with the New York State Fire Prevention and Building Codes, all new and existing residential and commercial buildings are required to display a legible street number that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. For private residences that sit back off the road where the home is not visible, they may be attached to a post or mailbox at the road´s edge. For commercial buildings, the numbers may be mounted to the building or to a permanently installed freestanding sign. These numbers shall be of a contrasting color from the background on which they are mounted. Each number must be a minimum of four inches in height and one-half inch in width but the larger the better. The numbers should be installed where they are not blocked by shrubbery, trees, snow, holiday decorations or other obstructions. It is also beneficial if they are installed near light fixtures so the numbers can be illuminated after dark.

Delaware Avenue Complete Streets Project – Winter Shut Down, Work Resumes in Spring

With the recent winter weather and the onset of sustained freezing temperatures, the Town’s contractor, Peter Luizzi & Bros.  Contracting, has determined that construction activities will pause for the season.  All remaining work will resume in spring when conditions allow.

Status of Phase 1 – Waterline Improvements

Fall 2025 Work Completed

• Snowden Avenue – waterline installation complete
• Lincoln Avenue – waterline installation complete
• Bedell Avenue – waterline installation complete
• Booth Road – waterline installation complete

Planned Work for Spring Start-Up

• Waterline upgrades on Elsmere Avenue, Plymouth Avenue, and Mason Road
• Valve replacements and upgrades at the following locations:
  • Herrick Avenue
  • Burhans Place
  • Euclid Avenue
  • Normanskill Boulevard
  • Delaware Plaza area

Stay Informed

The Town will provide regular updates through its website, email newsletter, and social media.  Updates will include construction timing, traffic impacts, safety reminders, and progress photos.

• Weekly email updates, sign up here:  http://eepurl.com/hzl9k5
• Project webpage:  Delaware Avenue Complete Streets Project
• Facebook link:  Delaware Avenue Complete Streets
• Instagram link:  @DelAveCompleteSt

Town code provisions adopted in 2012 clarified the rules for temporary lawn signs often used by candidates for election, not-for-profits, civic groups or others promoting their events or causes. The town code permits the use of temporary signs on private non-commercial property with the  permission of the owner. While the town code provides legal authorization for temporary sign use, we have put together the following plain language rules to help organizations, individuals, and candidates  for public office understand the rules for their use within the Town of Bethlehem.

When it comes to staying safe from lightning strikes, everything you think you know is probably wrong.

That’s the word from weather experts, who worry that outdated advice and persistent myths about thunder and lightning storms may be backfiring, putting people in danger instead of protecting them from harm.

Debunking inaccurate beliefs is vital as we head into summer in North America, the peak season for lightning strikes, said John Jensenius, the lightning specialist for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA.

“There are things we just simply don’t recommend anymore,” Jensenius said. “People misunderstand them and it puts them in danger."

By July of 2014, there were seven lightning deaths in the U.S., including a 32-year-old man found lifeless under a tree in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  By July of 2019, there were four lightning deaths in the U.S., including a 45-year-old man who was killed after being struck while riding his motorcycle on Interstate 95 in Florida.  In 2018, there were 20 lightning deaths in the U.S., a record low in a nation where the 30-year average is 51 deaths a year.

In June of 2019, two giraffes were killed in a "billion-to-one" lightning strike in Florida.

Here are the most common myths about lightning strikes and safety:

1. Golfers are most at risk of getting hit.  Not true.  Among the 261 people killed by lightning between 2006 and 2013, fishermen accounted for more than three times as many fatalities as golfers — and camping and boating each chalked up almost twice as many deaths as golf
2. The "30/30 rule" can keep you safe.  It’s been years since experts relied on the 30/30 rule, which went like this:  If it takes less than 30 seconds to hear thunder after seeing a lightning flash, lightning is close enough to pose a threat, go indoors.  And, after the storm ends, wait 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.  Instead, the new advice is just to go inside either a substantial shelter or a hard-topped metal vehicle at the first sound of thunder, Jensenius said.  Once there, experts still recommend waiting a half-hour after the last rumble of thunder before going back outside.  “The general rule that we use is that if you can hear thunder, you’re within striking distance of the storm and you need to go inside right away,” he said.
3. If you’re caught outside, assume the "lightning squat."   “The idea was to squat down low with your two feet together,” Jensenius said.  “Some had you putting your hands over your head or your ears, basically to get yourself into a ball.”  But that’s also wrong.  People are endangered as much by ground lighting as they are by a direct strike.  For instance, lightning can hit a tree and then spread along the surface of the earth, Jensenius said.  If you’re crouching on the ground, you’re likely to get hit.  Again, the best advice is to head to shelter at the first sign of a storm.
4. Just go ahead with your plans during a lightning storm.  The biggest mistake most people make is not being willing to cancel or postpone activities when dangerous weather crops up, Jensenius said.  Men, who make up more than 80 percent of lightning fatalities, are notoriously unwilling to postpone a hike or head back to shore on a fishing trip, he noted.  But that stubbornness may be a deadly decision.
5. You’ll hear a storm in time to get to safety.  People are able to hear thunder from about 10 miles away, Jensenius said.  But any number of factors can interfere with the warning.  “In many cases you can’t hear it that far because of background noise,” he said. “You won’t hear it if you’re near a highway or in a crowd at a fair or a ball game . And if the wind is blowing, it would muffle the sound.”

Bottom line: Don’t take chances with lightning.  The odds of being struck may be one in a million in a given year and one in 10,000 over a lifetime, but it’s better not to be that one.

(original source: NBCNEWS.com, June 20, 2014; updated:  TODAY.com, June 14, 2019  )

Please be advised that the 30-day annual review period for Albany County Agricultural Districts begins on February 1. During this period, landowners can apply to have predominantly viable agricultural land included in a certified Agricultural District.The Albany County Agricultural Districts Law provides an annual 30-day period where landowners can request the inclusion of viable farmland within a certified Agricultural District. The 30-day period established by the Albany County Legislature begins on February 1 of every year. Landowners interested in adding a parcel to one of the County’s Agricultural Districts must complete an Agricultural District Review Worksheet, found on the Albany County web site at https://www.albanycountyny.gov/departments/economic-development-conservation-and-planning/albany-county-agricultural-districts.At the end of the 30-day open period, the County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board will review the applications and report its recommendations to the County Legislature. Based on these recommendations and comments received from a public hearing, the Legislature will forward proposed modifications to the Districts to the Commissioner of NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets for approval. Municipalities whose territory encompasses the lands which are proposed to be included in an agricultural district will receive a map with parcel numbers of the proposed inclusions and will be notified directly in writing of the time, date and location of the public hearing.If you have any questions about the Agricultural District review process, you may go to the County´s website at https://albanycountyny.gov and visit the County´s Department of Economic Development, Conservation and Planning page.

Extreme heat can be very dangerous, leading to heat stroke and death. Heat stroke occurs when your temperature rises quickly and your body cannot cool down.  It often occurs as a progression from milder heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat syncope (fainting), and heat exhaustion but it can strike even if you have no previous signs of heat injury. This condition is life-threatening, but it is preventable. 

Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illness

• Stay in air-conditioned space if possible. If your home is not air-conditioned, go to a public library, heat-relief shelter, or other cool location.
• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids, avoiding those with caffeine  (check with your doctor if you are usually supposed to limit your fluids).
• Wear loose-fitting, light-colored, lightweight clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.
• Cut back on exercise.
• Closely watch those who are at high risk of heat-related illness, including older adults, young children, pets, and individuals with physical and/or mental illnesses.
• NEVER leave anyone, including a pet, in an enclosed, parked vehicle, even with the windows cracked/open.

If you believe that you or someone else may be suffering from heat stroke or another heat-related illness, get help right away. It could be a life or death emergency.

For more information, contact the Bethlehem Emergency Management Office (BEMO) at (518) 439-4955, extension 1166.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), is committed to protecting the public and ensuring that the rights of victims are carefully observed. HSI administers a Victim Notification Program which allows eligible victims and witnesses to obtain reliable and timely information regarding a criminal alien's release from custody. However, victims and witnesses are required to register with our agency in order to receive notification of a criminal alien's release. A link has been created on the town's web site for registration and a number of valuable victim services programs provided by ICE.

Bear sightings are often reported throughout the town especially in spring.  A reminder from the town's Animal Control Officer: People who think they are doing wildlife a favor by feeding them and getting them used to humans are doing them a big disservice. Fed wildlife becomes problem wildlife, A FED BEAR IS A DEAD BEAR!

What causes Human-Bear Conflicts? The simple answer is food!  Bears are more likely to seek out human food sources in the spring, when natural food is scarce, and in the summer, particularly during periods of drought. The leading cause of bear complaints in New York is bears getting into residential garbage and birdfeeders. Remove bird feeders from April 1 - November 30. New York's black bears begin emerging from their winter dens in mid to late March. Bird feed such as suet and seeds are a very strong attraction for bears, even if they can't reach it. The Feeding of Black Bears is Prohibited in New York, even the incidental, indirect feeding of black bears is unlawful. If a bear continues to forage for food near humans, it will be trapped and tagged in the ear. If trapped a second time, tagged in the other ear. Third time destroyed!

Reducing Bear Attractants Good housekeeping is a requirement wherever black bears are found. Simple sanitation measures can be the key to avoid attracting bears. Take responsibility for your safety and encourage your neighbors to do the same!

• Remove bird feeders after April 1. New York's black bears begin emerging from their winter dens in mid to late March. Bird feed such as suet and seeds are a very strong attraction for bears, even if they can't reach it.
• Do not feed pets outside. Leftover food or even an empty dish can attract a bear.
• Remove the grease can from grills after every use. Turn the grill on "High" for several minutes after you are done cooking to burn residual odors off the grill.
• Do not place food outside to attract any wildlife. Any food stuff used to attract birds, squirrels or other wildlife will also attract bears.
• Do not operate refrigerators or freezers outside or on porches. Bears can smell what is inside.
• Garbage is extremely attractive to bears! It should always be kept in sealed garbage cans inside a sturdy building like a garage or shed. Anything with an odor can attract a bear. Note: Burning garbage is illegal and may increase its attractiveness to bears.
• Bear resistant trash cans are used all over the country to eliminate human-bear conflicts.
• If you frequently find bears foraging in your garbage cans, despite proper storage, consider using a bear-resistant trash container.
  • Mask garbage odors with ammonia-soaked rags.
  • If you have curbside garbage pickup- Take out trash just before your scheduled pickup. Do not put garbage at the curb the night before.
  • Do not place meat or bones in compost piles.
• Electric Fencing is an effective tool for keeping bears out of apiaries, chicken coops, compost, and gardens.

Keeping Humans and Bears Safe In New York State, people and black bears often find themselves living nearby one another. Bears can obtain all of the nourishment they need from the forest but they are intelligent and opportunistic animals that will find and consume whatever food they can access most easily. Since bears must often cross roads and pass through developed areas to find the varied habitat types that produce their seasonal food sources, they often find human foods readily accessible along the way, if homeowners do not take necessary precautions. Not every bear that passes through a developed area is a 'problem bear', but available human food sources can quickly turn them into one. Frequently, humans unknowingly create potential food sources for bears that may attract them into close proximity to residential areas and subsequently result in human-bear conflicts. These conflicts are often associated with activities not intended to attract bears, such as feeding birds, improperly storing garbage, and leaving messy grills and pet food outdoors. Most conflict scenarios in New York can be resolved or minimized by removing or adequately securing whatever served to attract the bear. Bears are opportunistic feeders and will remember where they find easy food, and return to that location frequently. Intentional feeding of bears or repeated access to human foods without negative consequence can lead bears to become habituated (lose their fear of humans) and to become food-conditioned (actively seek out human foods). Habituated and food-conditioned bears may become bolder in their efforts the longer they are successfully able to access human foods, and will eventually become involved in human-bear conflicts. These food conditioned bears are significantly more likely to be hit by cars or shot illegally by people who mistakenly perceive a threat to their own safety. Report a Bear Problem. Contact your regional DEC wildlife office to report black bear related damage.

Feeding of Black Bears is Prohibited in New York Never feed bears intentionally; it is illegal and creates human-bear conflicts. DEC has adopted a regulation prohibiting the deliberate and intentional feeding of black bears. The incidental, indirect feeding of black bears also is unlawful after a written warning has been issued by the department.

Passport forms and information are available on the internet at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html/.  Completed forms can be presented to the Delmar Post Office, 357 Delaware Avenue, for processing.

Bear sightings are not uncommon in the Town of Bethlehem and can and have occurred in numerous locations.  It doesn't matter where a bear was sighted, the following is important for everyone.

A reminder from the town's Animal Control Officer: People who think they are doing wildlife a favor by feeding them and getting them used to humans are doing them a big disservice. Fed wildlife becomes problem wildlife, A FED BEAR IS A DEAD BEAR!

What causes Human-Bear Conflicts? The simple answer is food! Bears are more likely to seek out human food sources in the spring, when natural food is scarce, and in the summer, particularly during periods of drought. The leading cause of bear complaints in New York is bears getting into residential garbage and birdfeeders. Remove bird feeders from April 1 - November 30. New York's black bears begin emerging from their winter dens in mid to late March. Bird feed such as suet and seeds are a very strong attraction for bears, even if they can't reach it. The Feeding of Black Bears is Prohibited in New York, even the incidental, indirect feeding of black bears is unlawful. If a bear continues to forage for food near humans, it will be trapped and tagged in the ear. If trapped a second time, tagged in the other ear. Third time destroyed!

Reducing Bear Attractants Good housekeeping is a requirement wherever black bears are found. Simple sanitation measures can be the key to avoid attracting bears. Take responsibility for your safety and encourage your neighbors to do the same!

• Remove bird feeders after April 1. New York's black bears begin emerging from their winter dens in mid to late March. Bird feed such as suet and seeds are a very strong attraction for bears, even if they can't reach it.
• Do not feed pets outside. Leftover food or even an empty dish can attract a bear.
• Remove the grease can from grills after every use. Turn the grill on "High" for several minutes after you are done cooking to burn residual odors off the grill.
• Do not place food outside to attract any wildlife. Any food stuff used to attract birds, squirrels or other wildlife will also attract bears.
• Do not operate refrigerators or freezers outside or on porches. Bears can smell what is inside.
• Garbage is extremely attractive to bears! It should always be kept in sealed garbage cans inside a sturdy building like a garage or shed. Anything with an odor can attract a bear. Note: Burning garbage is illegal and may increase its attractiveness to bears.
• Bear resistant trash cans are used all over the country to eliminate human-bear conflicts.
• If you frequently find bears foraging in your garbage cans, despite proper storage, consider using a bear-resistant trash container.
  • Mask garbage odors with ammonia-soaked rags.
  • If you have curbside garbage pickup- Take out trash just before your scheduled pickup. Do not put garbage at the curb the night before.
  • Do not place meat or bones in compost piles.
• Electric Fencing is an effective tool for keeping bears out of apiaries, chicken coops, compost, and gardens.

Keeping Humans and Bears Safe In New York State, people and black bears often find themselves living nearby one another. Bears can obtain all of the nourishment they need from the forest but they are intelligent and opportunistic animals that will find and consume whatever food they can access most easily. Since bears must often cross roads and pass through developed areas to find the varied habitat types that produce their seasonal food sources, they often find human foods readily accessible along the way, if homeowners do not take necessary precautions. Not every bear that passes through a developed area is a 'problem bear', but available human food sources can quickly turn them into one. Frequently, humans unknowingly create potential food sources for bears that may attract them into close proximity to residential areas and subsequently result in human-bear conflicts. These conflicts are often associated with activities not intended to attract bears, such as feeding birds, improperly storing garbage, and leaving messy grills and pet food outdoors. Most conflict scenarios in New York can be resolved or minimized by removing or adequately securing whatever served to attract the bear. Bears are opportunistic feeders and will remember where they find easy food, and return to that location frequently. Intentional feeding of bears or repeated access to human foods without negative consequence can lead bears to become habituated (lose their fear of humans) and to become food-conditioned (actively seek out human foods). Habituated and food-conditioned bears may become bolder in their efforts the longer they are successfully able to access human foods, and will eventually become involved in human-bear conflicts. These food conditioned bears are significantly more likely to be hit by cars or shot illegally by people who mistakenly perceive a threat to their own safety. Report a Bear Problem. Contact your regional DEC wildlife office to report black bear related damage.

Feeding of Black Bears is Prohibited in New York Never feed bears intentionally; it is illegal and creates human-bear conflicts. DEC has adopted a regulation prohibiting the deliberate and intentional feeding of black bears. The incidental, indirect feeding of black bears also is unlawful after a written warning has been issued by the department.

The Bethlehem Food Pantry is located at 445 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, New York at the Bethlehem Town Hall for town residents. It is run through Bethlehem Senior Projects, Inc. with help from Bethlehem Senior Outreach workers and is kept stocked through the generosity of individuals and groups within the community. Senior Services volunteers keep the shelves in order and make sure that a supply of food and store gift certificates are kept on hand for special needs. During the past year, over 600 individuals utilized our pantry. At holiday times throughout the year, food pantry volunteers work with civic, church and community groups to provide special gifts for low-income elderly individuals and families. If you live in town (proof of address/residency required) and feel you could use the help of the Food Pantry, call 439-4955, extension 1173 or 1174 for a confidential appointment.