Gov. Tom Wolf Monday joined Sen. Anthony Williams (D-Philadelphia), Rep. Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia), Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Dunn (photo), and others to announce a $3 million state grant to aid in the development of a 2.25 mile section of the Schuylkill River Trail in Philadelphia.

“With the help of our investment, the Schuylkill River Development Corporation will be able to reclaim and redevelop brownfield sites along the river,” Gov. Wolf said. “Turning a former eyesore and blighted area into a new and accessible space for city residents, we will create a valuable resource in a currently underserved neighborhood in Southwest Philadelphia.”

“The Schuylkill River Trail is one of many solid examples of a city’s vibrancy and a river’s rebirth, and DCNR is very proud to be a longtime partner in its development,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn

The $3 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant will allow the Schuylkill River Development Corporation to complete a $13 million greenway trail project from Bartram’s Mile to Passyunk Point.

The scope of the RACP includes land acquisition, remediation, site work, and construction for Phase I and Phase II of the project.

“SRDC is thrilled to receive this RACP grant,” said Joseph Syrnick, President & CEO of SRDC. “It allows us to extend the trail into the Elmwood neighborhood, which is currently underserved in regards to open space.”

“The Schuylkill River Trail project is a great opportunity for Philadelphia to create a one-of-a-kind experience that will encourage thousands of community members to get outside and enjoy some of the beauty our city has to offer,” Rep. Harris said. “Connecting more neighborhoods to each other via the trail will only increase the neighborly bond Philadelphians share and open them up to new experiences they otherwise may not have had.”

“This project will make not only provide open green space within the City of Philadelphia, but will also help revitalize an area in desperate need of improvement,” Sen. Anthony Williams said. “I applaud Gov. Wolf for approving the funding that will enable this needed expansion of a trail that is a true asset for the city and its residents.”

The Schuylkill River Trail is a multi-use trail in Southeastern Pennsylvania with a projected length of almost 130 miles when complete. There are currently over 60 miles of completed trail, including a 30-mile stretch from Philadelphia to Parkerford. The trail accommodates over two million users each year.

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10/17/2016