IRON WORKS – News & Updates

Here is the latest information about the Iron Works project.

In August 2025 the Redevelopment Authority filed an application with PA DCED’s Main Street Matters program, for a $1 million grant that would be provided to Iron Works Development Group, LLC (VMDG) for the construction of the first phase of the Iron Works Redevelopment Project.

In June 2025, the Borough imported approximately 10,000 tons of stone that will be used in the redevelopment of the site.  The Borough is also continuing to work with RALC and VMDG to plan further site improvements, including a retaining wall that will allow for improvements along Front Street.

After several months of negotiations, in May 2025 the Borough and RALC signed an Agreement of Sale with VMDG formalizing the terms and timeline of the sale.  Per the Agreement of Sale, the Borough will be continuing to utilize grants it has been awarded to make improvements to the site aligned with VMDG’s proposed development plans.

VMDG’s preliminary plans for the Iron Works include the development of 45 townhouses and 250 apartment units, 10,000 sf of commercial space, public plazas and parks space, and pedestrian/bike connectivity to the adjacent D&L canal tow path. VMDG estimates a total project value of approximately $75,000,000.

After a competitive Request for Proposals process, in July 2024 the Borough and RALC identified VM Development Group (VMDG) as their preferred private development partner for the project. VMDG is best known for their ability to redevelop older commercial/industrial properties such as the Simon Silk Mill and Pomeroy Building in Easton, and the Laros Silk Mill in Bethlehem.

Since 2023, the Borough has been working with the Redevelopment Authority of Lehigh County (RALC) on a plan to create a public private partnership to facilitate the redevelopment of the Iron Works property.