Delaware River WATERFRONT

A critical element of the Master Plan for the Central Delaware is a continuous multi-use trail running the length of the project area, connecting at the north and south ends with other regional and city-wide trails. It will run both on-road (in the center section of the project area) and off-road directly along the river (in the north and south sections of the project area).

 

Though implementing the trail in its final form is a long-term endeavor, DRWC is actively working to realize the trail through incremental design and construction. In 2013 the RBA Group completed a Preliminary Design Report for the entire length of trail, and the first segment of on-road trail at Penn Street was opened to the public.

 

About the Trail

• Running for 1400 linear feet, from Spring Garden Street to Ellen Street, this trail segment incorporates streetscape improvements that will be used for the entire waterfront trail, which will eventually run from Oregon Avenue to Allegheny Avenue. 
• The first of its kind in the city in providing a 12’ bi-directional bikeway separated from a 10’ pedestrian walkway, all buffered from the street by plantings and a curb.
• The design includes rain gardens that will collect the first inch of storm water, relieving the city sewer system during major weather events, as well as beautiful and distinctive street furniture, including benches and bike racks, decorative street pavers, and innovative solar trail lighting.
• The trail segment is part of the East Coast Greenway and the Circuit, which provide a crucial bicycle network connection for the city and region.  It also creates an important connection to Spring Garden Street, the site of a planned bike trail connecting the Delaware River to the Schuylkill River. 
• DRWC worked closely with the Philadelphia Streets Department, Water Department and PennDOT to design and construct the trail.  Construction was coordinated with local residents and businesses, including nearby Yards Brewery, Waterfront Square, and SugarHouse Casino. The trail was designed by RBA Group and constructed by AP Construction with assistance from Johnson, Mirmiran, and Thompson for permitting and construction management. Civic engagement was performed in coordination with the Central Delaware Advocacy Group.