Recent rails-to-trails investments will help to link more than 100 miles of recreational trails in Western Pennsylvania. These connections will economically benefit communities that have been cut off from one another and provide safe pathways for all ages and abilities to enjoy physical fitness, recreation, and green spaces.
How much is going into these projects?
The Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County awarded $21.8 million to 18 projects in September. A portion of the funding is from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.
What trails will be added or expanded?
- Rehab of the Carrie Blast Furnace Hot Metal Bridge and a new off-ramp and switch back to connect to the Three Rivers Heritage Trail / GAP Trail
- 9-mile trail to connect the Carrie Furnaces to Braddock, East Pittsburgh, Monroeville, North Braddock, North Versailles, Pitcairn, Rankin, Turtle Creek, and Trafford to the western end of the Westmoreland Heritage Trail
- Brilliant Line rail trail connecting Aspinwall to Homewood in Pittsburgh
- 3-mile-long Little Pine Creek Connector Trail from Shaler to Etna’s Riverfront Trail and Park
- 26-mile recreational trail along the Allegheny River through 18 communities paralleling Route 28: Pittsburgh, Millvale, Shaler, Etna, Sharpsburg, Aspinwall, Fox Chapel, O’Hara, Blawnox, Harmar, Cheswick, Springdale, Springdale Township, Frazer, Tarentum, Brackenridge, Harrison, and Freeport
- 14-mile trail connecting Oakmont, Verona, Penn Hills, and Plum
