Proposed Bulgarian Community Center Sparks Debate and Concerns in Northampton County

Published in House and Home on Tuesday, August 19th 2025 at 19:37 GMT by WFMZ-TV
^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

Proposed Bulgarian Community Center Sparks Debate and Concerns in Northampton County

A proposal to establish a community center catering to the growing Bulgarian population in Northampton County is generating significant discussion and raising concerns among residents ahead of a public hearing scheduled for next week. The proposed center, envisioned for a vacant industrial building at 1300 Keystone Blvd. in Nazareth, aims to serve as a hub for cultural activities, language classes, social gatherings, and potentially even childcare services for the local Bulgarian community. However, its potential impact on traffic, noise levels, and property values has ignited debate within the surrounding neighborhood and beyond.

The driving force behind the project is the Bulgarian American Cultural Center (BACC), which purchased the 50,000-square-foot building in August 2023. According to BACC representatives, Northampton County’s burgeoning Bulgarian community – estimated to number around 1,500 individuals across several municipalities including Bethlehem, Easton, and Nazareth – lacks a dedicated space for cultural preservation and social connection. The center would provide just that, offering programs designed to connect generations, introduce Bulgarian traditions to the wider community, and support newcomers adjusting to life in the United States.

"We want this to be more than just a building," explained Dimitar Petrov, BACC spokesperson, in an interview with WFMZ. "It's about creating a place where our culture thrives, where children can learn their heritage language and traditions, and where families feel connected." He emphasized the center’s potential to foster understanding and appreciation between Bulgarian Americans and the broader Lehigh Valley community.

However, not everyone shares this optimistic view. Residents living near the proposed location have voiced concerns about increased traffic congestion on Keystone Boulevard, a road already known for its busy flow during peak hours. The anticipated influx of visitors attending events at the center has prompted worries about parking availability and potential safety hazards. Noise complaints are also a significant concern, particularly regarding potential late-night activities or amplified music emanating from the building.

"We're not against cultural centers," stated Sarah Miller, a resident of nearby Willow Creek Estates, in an interview with WFMZ. "But this location is simply not suitable for something of this scale. Keystone Boulevard can barely handle what it already has. Adding potentially hundreds of cars and people on event nights will be a nightmare."

Beyond traffic and noise, some residents have expressed concerns about the potential impact on property values in the surrounding area. While BACC representatives maintain that the center will enhance the neighborhood’s vibrancy and appeal, others fear that increased activity could detract from the quiet, residential character of the community.

The Nazareth Borough Council has acknowledged these concerns and is actively working to address them. They have commissioned a traffic study to assess the potential impact on Keystone Boulevard and are exploring options for mitigating noise levels, such as soundproofing measures or restrictions on event hours. The council also plans to hold a public hearing next week – scheduled for February 29th at 7:00 PM in Nazareth Borough Hall – to allow residents to voice their opinions and ask questions about the proposal.

The BACC has attempted to be responsive to community concerns, offering to work with local authorities to implement traffic calming measures and address noise mitigation strategies. They have also emphasized that the center’s programming will be family-friendly and respectful of the surrounding neighborhood. They are actively seeking feedback from residents and are open to making adjustments to their plans based on community input.

The upcoming public hearing promises to be a pivotal moment in determining the fate of the proposed Bulgarian Community Center. It represents an opportunity for both the BACC and concerned residents to engage in constructive dialogue, find common ground, and ultimately decide whether this project will enrich the Lehigh Valley’s cultural landscape or create unnecessary burdens on its communities. The debate highlights the challenges inherent in balancing the needs of a growing immigrant population with the concerns of established residents, underscoring the importance of open communication and collaborative problem-solving in fostering inclusive and thriving communities.

Vacationing with Children can be Easy!

Rental of high quality Baby Gear & Beach Equipment, Delivered to Wherever You Are!

N※N

Vacationing with Children can be Easy!

Vacationing with Children can be Easy!

Vacationing with Children can be Easy!

Vacationing with Children can be Easy!

Vacationing with Children can be Easy!

Proposed Bulgarian Community Center Sparks Debate and Concerns in Northampton County

Proposed Bulgarian Community Center Sparks Debate and Concerns in Northampton County

Vacationing with Children can be Easy!