More trails to walk, run, ride, and enjoy could be coming to the Greater Philadelphia region soon, thanks to potential landmark funding from the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC). The Circuit Trails, a network of more than 411 miles of multi-use trails in the region, is eligible to receive more than $200 million in funding for trail developments, and the key to unlocking this major funding is public support from community members.

Funding proposed in the FY2025 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for Pennsylvania by the DVRPC could allocate $120 million from the Carbon Reduction Program to Circuit Trails projects in four major corridors: Spring Garden Street Greenway, Cross County Trail, Chester Valley Trail, and Route 291 Trail/East Coast Greenway. Paired with other funding sources, the total potential investment in the Circuit Trails network from the TIP would be more than $200 million. 

The Circuit Trails Coalition is calling on the public to support these investments by participating in the DVRPC’s public comment period, which runs through June 24 at 5 PM. Those interested can submit comments that support all Circuit Trails projects included on the draft TIP by filling out this form.

“This significant level of investment will create new connections and close critical gaps in the Circuit Trails network,” said Patrick Starr, EVP, Pennsylvania Environmental Council and Circuit Trails Coalition Chair. “It is increased connectivity of trails that make trails a safe and inexpensive alternative means of getting to jobs, doing errands, and enjoying outdoor recreation and exercise whether or not people have cars.”

Miko Quisumbing is one of many Greater Philadelphia residents that celebrate and appreciate the benefits of the Circuit Trails network. Quisumbing is a frequent user of the Manayunk Canal Trail, the Chester Valley Trail, and the Schuylkill River Trail for recreation and for commuting to and from school, with his children along for the ride on his cargo bike.

“I love using the trail with my family,” said Quisumbing. “The fact that I can just step outside my door, walk a few blocks, and have somewhere where I can just breathe in the fresh air and have somewhere safe to walk around makes me very happy.”

The TIP proposal highlights four key corridors: the Spring Garden Street Greenway, Cross County Trail, Chester Valley Trail, and Route 291 Trail/East Coast Greenway. Other segments of the Circuit Trails eligible to receive funding are the Wissahickon Gateway Trail, Parkside Cynwyd Trail, Pennypack Park Trail, Liberty Bell Trail, and Dreshertown Road Cross County Trail Extension.

The potential funding comes at a critical point as the Circuit Trails Coalition aims to complete 500 miles of trail by 2025. Currently, the Circuit Trails network includes more than 411 miles of trails in five counties in Pennsylvania (Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia) and four counties in southern New Jersey (Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Mercer). When complete, the network will encompass more than 850 miles.

Learn more about the Circuit Trails network and how you can get involved in supporting trail development in your community.