As design work for the construction of the new Coplay-Northampton Bridge draws closer to completion, the extensive work in preparing bid specifications for the project is expected to begin shortly.

Rick Molchany, Lehigh County director of general services, reported bid packages will go out to construction companies in November or December.

"We (Lehigh County) expect to award the construction contract no later than December 17," Molchany said.

Utility work and demolition of the existing concrete bridge is scheduled to take place during the winter, according to Molchany. He said the winter should have little or no effect on the work.

Molchany cautioned that the construction costs could be higher than originally estimated since the figures won't actually be known until the bids are in and reviewed.

Many individuals indicated they would be satisfied if the construction bids came in under $20 million.

Before any work begins on the Coplay-Northampton Bridge, vehicle traffic must be opened for the Hokendauqua-North Catasauqua Bridge, now being erected.

Molchany looks to smoother construction of the Coplay-Northampton Bridge on the basis that the present piers are adequate, unlike the Hokendauqua-North Catasauqua Bridge, which is far behind its first projected opening because new piers had to be constructed.

The construction timetable for the Coplay-Northampton Bridge is two years.

There will be a wider cartway of the Coplay-Northampton Bridge, since there will only be sidewalks on one side. A turning lane will be constructed for motorists entering Northampton. Also, right of way easements will be sought for the construction equipment. No eminent domain of private property will occur.

The present bridge was dedicated on August 15, 1931, replacing a wooden covered bridge.