Philadelphia just got a little more accessible for bikers and pedestrians. Yesterday, the City of Philadelphia, in concert with Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, PennDOT, and DVRPC, officially inaugurated the Pennypack Path Connector Trail. The celebration occurred at the opening of the new trail segment that links the Pennypack Path with the Pennypack Trail at State Road and Rhawn Street. This addition creates a 10.3-mile uninterrupted trail from the Delaware River to Bristol Road in Bucks County.
City officials are not just cutting ribbons but also bridging gaps. A statement by Kristin Del Rossi, Commissioner of the Department of Streets, highlighted that what may seem like small stretches, such as the Fox Chase Lorimer Trail and the now Pennypack Path Connector, actually fill critical missing links within the larger Circuit Network. Del Rossi echoed Mayor Parker’s vision of a safer, greener, and cleaner Philadelphia that accommodates all users.
The enhancements to the Pennypack Path Connector go beyond simply paving a new path. Thanks to a new concrete refuge island in the middle of State Road, cyclists and pedestrians can now navigate State Road more safely. Inclusivity was also key, with ADA ramps, updated traffic signals, and new sidewalks as part of the improvements. Plus, the project didn't overlook environmental concerns, featuring green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) provided by the Philadelphia Water Department.
The construction, which totaled $1.2 million, was funded through a blend of City funds and federal TASA grant funding. The design phase was supported by the Regional Trail Program grant, managed by DVRPC and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources, as the city's press release detailed.
