Bethel Park to break ground on new $3.5 million splash park and Park Avenue playground Monday

Kim Weightman • April 6, 2023

On Monday (April 10) at 12 p.m., Bethel Park Municipality will be holding a Groundbreaking for a new splash park and playground at Park Avenue (next to the Bethel Park Community Center). The playground will feature “The Serenity Spot,” playground equipment for children with autism or other sensory processing differences.

“This project has been in the making for about four years and was part of our strategic plan to upgrade all of our recreational facilities. We want each of our parks to be a bit different having its own featured attraction,” said Municipal Council President Tim Moury. “This particular park will not only be an amazing amenity for our residents but will also draw people to Bethel Park.”

The splash park, a $3.5 million project, will feature two areas, one for younger children with a river component to float toys and a large area for all ages with spray toys and other unique features.

“We really wanted to ensure that children of all ages would be able to enjoy the splash park,” said Moury. “The entire facility is also ADA accessible and will inclusive for all ages and abilities.”

Two grants from the state and county as well as various community fundraisers helped cover the project cost. A snack stand and unisex, air-conditioned restrooms will also be part of the project.

The approximate $175,000 new playground, matching the aesthetic of the splash park, will feature a sandbox, swing, pirate ship play structure, a dolphin and sea horse rocker, park benches, and a picnic table.

A highlight of the playground area will be “The Serenity Spot” designed for children on the autism spectrum. This play space offers children a comfortable place to step away and express themselves freely. It features a fort-like environment with games, a spinning seat, a rubber kick pad, and a variety of calming activities. Developmental benefits include sensory, social/emotional, cognitive, and motor skills.

Local and state officials along with Municipal staff members will break ground at the event. Due to construction, guests are asked to park in the upper lot of the Bethel Park Community Center (5151 Park Ave.) and walk over to the Groundbreaking (next to the Center).

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Bethel Park Farmers' Market #1

By Kim Weightman • December 2, 2025

The Bethel Park Farmers Market, heading into its 20 th year in 2026, has been named the region’s top farmers market in the “Observer‑Reporter’s Best of the Best Awards,” earning the #1 spot after two rounds of community voting and a gala announcement at the Hilton Garden Inn Southpointe in Canonsburg last month. The award program, organized annually by the Observer-Reporter, celebrates the businesses, organizations, and people the local community believes deserve recognition. The top three vote‑getters in each category are honored at an invite‑only gala, where winners are announced live. “This recognition reflects years of dedication from our staff and volunteers,” said Recreation Director Jason Mentel. “The staff has dedicated considerable effort toward earning this award over the past several years. Sarah’s contribution was instrumental in elevating Bethel Park Farmers Market to achieve this recognition.” Farmers Market Coordinator Sarah Komatsu attended the gala and said, “I was fully shocked and thrilled. It’s been such an honor to steward the Market as it enters its 20th year. I’m grateful to the community who has shown up for two decades, to our incredible vendors, and to all the Market managers before me.” The Bethel Park Farmers Market, sponsored by the Bethel Park Community Foundation and St. Clair Health, continues to grow in accessibility and community impact. This past season featured: Fifty-two vendors , including nearly 20 rotating vendors for variety and six new vendors. Weekly attendance averaging 1,000–1,500 visitors , with peak weeks exceeding 2,000. Record sales reported by multiple vendors throughout the summer. Expanded accessibility through the Food Assistance Match (FAM) program, which doubled SNAP benefits up to $100 weekly, and senior vouchers that increased purchasing power for fresh produce and farm goods. On‑site doctors from St. Clair Health offering blood pressure checks and health conversations, elevating the Bethel Park Farmers’ Market experience. Highlights from the 2025 season included a new food court area, themed events such as National Bee Day and Cow Appreciation Day, musical entertainment, a special cooling tent complete with fun activities such as hula hoops and bubble machines, Market scavenger hunts for children, and partnerships with local organizations for a school supply drive. Assistance for those needing support in transporting their Market goods to their vehicles was also available. Looking ahead, Komatsu plans to expand vendor variety - including food items for those with specialized diets (such as gluten free) and continue building a welcoming, family‑friendly atmosphere. The 2026 season will open Tuesday, May 5, 2026 , and run weekly through September, from 3–7 p.m. at the same location (South Park VIP parking lot off of Corrigan Dr. near the ice-skating rink). Any new vendors interested in participating during the 2026 season can add their name to the waitlist by visiting https://www.bethelparkpa.gov – “Recreation” – “Farmers Market.” 2025 vendor fees were $400 for a full season, $250 for half season, and $150 for once‑a‑month vendors; food truck fees were $500 for a full season and $250 for half season. Komatsu also credited her summer assistant, local Bethel Park High School student Bane Stalder, for his support with the Market and also in managing FAM and troubleshooting. “I couldn’t do it without him,” she said. “He’s already looking forward to returning next season.” For more information, vendor applications, or volunteer opportunities, contact the Bethel Park Farmers Market at farmersmarket@bethelparkpa.gov .