March 5th, 2026 Economic Development Committee Meeting

The Northampton County Economic Development Committee meeting on March 25, 2026, featured a comprehensive presentation by the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission (LVPC) on regional development trends, infrastructure projects, and planning initiatives from 2025. Key procurement-related highlights included the allocation of $11.386 million in federal funding to 14 transportation projects, including pedestrian and cyclist safety improvements, and a $1 million investment in traffic calming and pedestrian accommodations in South Bethlehem. The committee also discussed upcoming RFPs, such as the contract awarded to Michael Baker International for a mobility, safety, and congestion management plan for Route 22. Environmental initiatives like watershed management ordinance updates and regional trail connection strategies were also presented, with funding support from FEMA and other sources. Additionally, the LVPC outlined plans for a regional transportation safety plan and a multi-municipal comprehensive plan update, both critical for accessing future federal funds. The meeting concluded with a presentation from a local nonprofit focused on youth digital literacy and life skills, though no direct procurement actions were associated with this segment.