Philadelphia secures $47 million for key infrastructure projects enhancing safety and connectivity along the Parkway and Schuylkill Trail
Philadelphia: The city is set to receive $47 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation for two major infrastructure projects. One is near the Museum of Art, and the other runs along the Schuylkill River Trail in Northwest Philadelphia.
This unexpected funding announcement comes just before the end of the Biden administration. It means that plans to improve the busy area between Eakins Oval and the Rocky steps can finally move forward.
Scott Cooper, president of the Parkway Council, expressed excitement, saying these funds will help create a safer and more inviting urban park along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Of the total, $23.3 million will go towards the Eakins Oval and Parkway improvements, while $13.7 million will help close a significant gap in the Schuylkill River Trail.
The Schuylkill project will introduce new trail sections called the Wissahickon Gateway Trail and the Passyunk Connection. This will complete a nearly seamless 39-mile path for pedestrians and cyclists from Philly to Pottstown.
Mayor Cherelle Parker highlighted that these grants will enhance the city’s transportation network, focusing on safety and connectivity in various neighborhoods.
Additionally, the USDOT announced a $2 million grant to extend the elevated Rail Park from Vine Street to Fairmount Avenue.
For over ten years, planners have been working to redesign the Parkway to make it more pedestrian-friendly. This effort has included summer pop-up events and a design process that started in 2021.
While there were hopes to finish the reconstruction by next year’s Semiquincentennial celebrations, that timeline has changed. The Parkway Council is finalizing the conceptual design, with updates expected soon.
Plans for the Eakins Oval work include new traffic patterns, improved intersections, and better pedestrian access. The goal is to enhance safety and reduce accidents.
As for the Schuylkill River Trail, the Bicycle Coalition of Philadelphia is celebrating this funding as a significant win. The new trail sections will connect historically disadvantaged communities and improve safety for users.
The Wissahickon Gateway Trail will add 1.29 miles to the riverside pathway, making it a complete 39-mile route, except for a short road section in the city.
Moreover, the Passyunk Connection will extend the trail south, connecting communities to new economic opportunities from nearby developments.
In a separate announcement, the Rail Park will receive funding to extend its existing section. This will transform an old railroad viaduct into a vibrant public space for the community.
Congressman Brendan Boyle emphasized that the Viaduct Greenway will enhance access to essential services and promote walking and biking in the area.
Long-term plans aim to create a three-mile-long Rail Park, further extending the trail along the abandoned elevated train structure.
