Having overcome financial mire and recent scandal, Bethlehem's National Museum of Industrial History is to once again going full steam ahead.

According to a press release last week, NMIH has somehow recovered from the grand jury investigation early this year of its director, Stephen Donches, and 15 years of funding that evaporated to little end. It's also received a $3 million donation from an anonymous source to reinvigorate flagging interest and jump-start a torpid work schedule.

The NMIH board submitted an application to the city to proceed with bids for the third phase of refurbishment at its East Third Street address, and workers have been seen buzzing around the property for weeks. Phase three includes a concrete slab and underground utilities and sets the stage for the final interior construction in anticipation of a 2016 opening.

Museum Board Chairman and President L. Charles Marcon said, "The realization of our vision to preserve and tell the story of America's industrial achievements is within reach and something we are very much looking forward to."

According to the release, winning bids will be selected mid-month and work on this phase should be completed in January.