Allentown launches $2.5 million restoration of historic bridge

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — City leaders joined community partners Thursday to kick off the long-anticipated restoration of Bogert’s Covered Bridge, an 184-year-old landmark and one of the oldest covered bridges in the United States.

Built in 1841, the bridge is a centerpiece of Allentown’s Lehigh Parkway and a familiar landmark to generations of residents, especially runners who cross it during the annual St. Luke’s Half Marathon.

“This is an icon,” Mayor Matt Tuerk said at the ceremony. “It’s so important to our identity here in the city of Allentown. I ran across it again this morning because I wanted one more run before we start this incredible work to make sure future generations appreciate the legacy that has been left behind.”

The $2.5 million project is funded through state and local support, including grants from the Pennsylvania Keystone Grant Program, PennDOT, the Trexler Trust and several historic preservation organizations. Design began in 2022, and construction is expected to last at least a year.

“All told, this project has been years in the making,” said Mandy Tolino, the city’s director of parks and recreation. “Between grants, city funds and community donations, we’ve raised nearly $3 million to restore an asset that is so important to the city.”

Planned work includes raising the bridge to correct its sagging center, repairing its structure with reclaimed wood and restoring the roof with natural slate. The goal, Tolino said, is to return the bridge to its original 1841 appearance while ensuring it can last another century.

During construction, Bogert’s Bridge and its adjacent parking lot will be closed, though pedestrian access to the parkway will remain open.

Community partners emphasized the cultural and historical value of the bridge. Scott Pidcock, chair of the Trexler Trust, called the project “a wonderful investment” in Allentown’s park system, which has received more than $62 million from the trust since 1935.

“These structures are expensive, and as cherished as they are, many do not survive,” Pidcock said. “Because of this project, Bogert’s Covered Bridge will move closer to its third century of service.”

Ruffian Tittman, executive director of the Allentown Parks Partnership, noted the bridge’s symbolic power.

“Bridges are connectors — that’s what they do. But this bridge is also a connection to our past. It’s almost like a time travel machine, allowing us to step back into history while enjoying the natural treasures of the park.”

Restoration is projected to be complete by 2027, when the bridge will once again serve as a highlight of community events and races.

“This is our crown jewel,” Tuerk said of the city’s park system. “Investing in it ensures Allentown remains not only a great place to live, but a city that honors and preserves its history.”

This story has been updated to reflect that the budget amount is $2.5 million. It was previously reported as $3 million.