As the closing of the Coplay-Northampton Bridge nears, there is some good news for the joggers, walkers and bicyclists on the Ironton Rail Trail: Their travels will not be impeded when the demolition of the existing span and construction of a new one take place over the next three years.

IRT Oversight Commission Secretary Ray Bieak reported to the commission at a recent meeting at Coplay Borough Hall that he received assurance from Lehigh County that the trail underneath the bridge will not be affected by the project.

The closing of the Coplay-Northampton Bridge has been delayed until early May.

“We learned the construction contract was not yet signed and right of way agreements with Norfolk Southern Railroad were not finalized,” Northampton Borough Manager LeRoy Brobst said.

During the construction of the Hokendauqua-North Catasauqua Bridge, a temporary short route on the IRT was put in place.

On another IRT matter, the popular trolley rides - discontinued three years ago because the former trolley company is no longer operating - may return. The IRT board is looking into bringing back the popular fall ride but said purchasing such a vehicle could be cost prohibitive.

The IRT still hosts a historical walk each spring. The event, free to the public, is led by IRT personnel.

Planning and fundraising for an IRT trailhead in North Whitehall Township is in place. The commission is also looking into possible grant funding to pay for the trailhead, which would be the same as the IRT trailhead in Stiles.