20th and 21st centuries Lower Saucon Township was impacted by the late 20th century downturn and eventual closure and bankruptcy of Bethlehem Steel, which was the second-largest steel manufacturer in the world for most of the 20th century. Bethlehem Steel executives purchased farmland in Lower Saucon Townships and built large estates in the township, and the steel company became the largest employer in the Lehigh Valley region. It underwent a substantial reduction in manufacturing in 1982 and ultimately ceased manufacturing entirely in 1995, resulting in the termination of employment for many township residents.
20th and 21st centuries Lower Saucon Township was impacted by the late 20th century downturn and eventual closure and bankruptcy of Bethlehem Steel, which w,as the second-largest steel manufacturer in the world for most of the 20th century. Bethlehem Steel executives purchased farmland in Lower Saucon Townships and built large estates in the townsh,ip, and the steel company became the la.rgest employer in the Lehigh Valley region. It underwent a substantial reduction in manufacturing in 1982 and ultimately ceased manufacturing entirely in 1995, resulting in the termination of employment for many township residents.