Historic Growth in the Lehigh Valley: How Cohen Seglias Can Help Prepare Your Firm for the $3.5 Billion Lilly Project

The Lehigh Valley is entering a transformative new chapter. Cohen Seglias is pleased to recognize Eli Lilly and Company’s selection of Fogelsville, Pennsylvania, for its new $3.5 billion pharmaceutical manufacturing campus. As the largest life sciences project in Pennsylvania’s history, this development represents a massive win for our region’s economy and a monumental opportunity for the construction industry.

Construction is expected to begin this year, and the project is anticipated to create 2,000 construction jobs over the next three years. The facility will be a state-of-the-art site for producing next-generation weight-loss medicines, utilizing advanced technologies like AI and machine learning. Our firm is ready to assist your team in navigating the unique regulatory and contractual demands of this development and to help ensure your firm is fully prepared to reap the benefits of this historic project.

 Get a Foot in the Door: LVEDC Annual Meeting on March 17

We encourage our clients to join the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation (LVEDC) Annual Meeting to gain an inside look at this historic investment and network with stakeholders.

• When: March 17, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Registration/Networking begins at 2:30 p.m.).
• Where: ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks, Bethlehem.
• Why Attend: The event will feature a panel discussion titled “From Strategy to Site Selection,” including leaders like LVEDC CEO Don Cunningham and Eli Lilly Senior VP Dan VonDielingen. This is a critical opportunity to hear directly from the team that secured this deal and to network with key project partners.
• Registration is required to attend this no-cost event. Register Today!

Getting Bid-Ready: A Practical Guide for Contractors

Due to the scale of this $3.5 billion project, which is supported by over $100 million in state incentives, bidding will require meticulous preparation. Further, Pennsylvania is utilizing the PA Permit Fast Track Program to streamline timelines, meaning procurement and bidding may move quickly.

We encourage our clients to register with Fast Track today and review their internal procedures to ensure they are positioned to compete for these high-value contracts.

Below is a strategic checklist to help guide your preparation:

Pre-Bid Due Diligence

• Confirm Procurement Methods: Determine if the project will utilize CM-at-risk, design-build, or public-private partnership structures.
• Assess Labor and Bonding: Evaluate union labor requirements, project labor agreements, and whether your firm meets the heightened bonding and insurance thresholds required for a multi-billion-dollar site.
• Regulatory Compliance: Prepare for the rigorous safety and environmental standards inherent in medical and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Lien Registration Requirements: Before submitting a bid, determine if the Project requires registration under Pennsylvania’s Mechanics’ Lien Law or involves any preliminary notice obligations that affect lien rights. Failure to comply can result in forfeiting your right to file a mechanics’ lien, one of your most powerful tools for securing payment if a dispute arises. Understanding these requirements up front helps ensure you are protected from the moment work begins.

Contract Risk Allocation Review

• Liquidated Damages & Acceleration: Review provisions regarding schedule delays and the risks associated with fast-tracked timelines.
• Supply Chain Resilience: Ensure your contracts include robust material escalation clauses to manage potential cost fluctuations.
• Confidentiality: Given the sensitive nature of pharmaceutical processes, be prepared for strict confidentiality and non-disclosure requirements.

Partner with Cohen Seglias to Secure Your Role in the Lehigh Valley’s New Chapter

Cohen Seglias is here to provide the specialized legal support your team needs to successfully bid on and manage these high-stakes opportunities. Whether you require help registering with Fast Track, a detailed review of contract risk allocation or guidance on meeting the heightened compliance and bonding thresholds required for pharmaceutical manufacturing sites, we can help ensure your firm is protected and positioned for success.

We encourage you to reach out to us to discuss how we can tailor your internal procedures to meet the demands of the Eli Lilly project and help you secure your role in building the future of our region.