Closed since Nov. 13, 2009, Schlicher's Covered Bridge, along Game Preserve Road, North Whitehall Township, is due to open next week.

Also known as a "deer pen bridge," as it is situated in the leafy landscape of the Trexler-Lehigh County Game Preserve, the historic bridge refurbishment has taken just under a year to complete.

Although the detour has been rerouting motorists for four years, the actual construction has been moving along as expected, according to PennDOT Press Officer Ron Young.

Young said the bridge should be open for motorists by June 30, as long as the weekend's weather cooperates. In the event of a delay, the bridge is scheduled to open July 1.

While maintaining the bridge's historic stature, Lycoming Supply Inc. completed the task of disassembling the bridge, salvaging original materials and rebuilding a stronger structure.

Through creative design, the newly refurbished local landmark will appear traditional even though contemporary materials, such as steel and concrete, were used to improve stability.

According to Young, the contracted amount for the project totals $1,870,370, well under the $2.6 million design estimate.

Employees at Lehigh Valley Zoo have been directly affected by the detour since the bridge closure forced zoo-goers to navigate around the 1,100 acre preserve to access its entrance.

Alan Raisman, the zoo's development and marketing coordinator, said the Lehigh Valley Zoo is planning a ribbon-cutting ceremony in celebration of the bridge's completion.

As of June 24, a date has not been set for the event, but preliminary plans include an appearance by the zoo's penguin mascot, Tuxster.

The official zoo Smart Car, camouflaged by penguin graphics, is set to lead the procession of vehicles crossing the bridge at the ceremony.

For those seeking refuge in the outdoors for the July 4 holiday weekend, the opening can only improve travel conditions and increase the chances that Trexler-Lehigh County Game Preserve and Lehigh Valley Zoo hit high on the list of desirable destinations.

"It's about time," said Timmi Fiske, as she gave out maps at the entrance of Lehigh Valley Zoo.

She has been touring back roads to get to work from her home in Slatington for the two years she has worked at the zoo.