Implementation — How we Connect

Create a countywide, interconnected trail network

Develop and implement a countywide trail network that includes expansion of the Circuit, Greater Philadelphia's regional multiuse trail network, and connecting local trails.

Extension of the Chester Valley Trail would significantly improve recreation and commuting options in Chester County and provide opportunities for local municipalities to create connecting trails that would amplify the positive impacts of the trail network.

Why:

Trails are a growing component of the transportation network as well as a critical aspect of recreation and community health. Multiple trail options and connections also provide a range of choices to meet the diverse needs of all trail users.

How:

Chester County will continue to operate, maintain, and, where possible, extend the county-owned trail facilities identified as part of the Circuit, including the Schuylkill River Trail, the Chester Valley Trail, and the Struble Trail, (depicted on the Circuit Trail Map). Municipally-owned trails identified as part of the Circuit include the Uwchlan Township trails and the East Branch Brandywine Trail in East Bradford and West Bradford townships. Planned Circuit trails with ownership to be determined include: the proposed Devault Trail in Charlestown Township, Schuylkill Township, and Phoenixville Borough; the Warner Spur located in Tredyffrin Township; and, the Paoli/Chester Valley Trail Connector trail located in Willistown and Tredyffrin townships. The county and Circuit Coalition will investigate the feasibility of extending the Circuit trail network into southern Chester County to serve those communities. These primary trails will serve as the spines for municipal connectors to create a countywide interconnected trail network. Municipalities and other trail development partners should work to implement municipal connector trails identified through existing and future municipal comprehensive plans and bicycle/pedestrian/trail plans. Municipal trails are essential to extending the overall network and connecting residents with commuting and recreation options.

Circuit Trails

The Circuit is the planned multi-use trail network throughout Greater Philadelphia that connects people to communities, parks, waterways, and jobs. Chester County manages and maintains the Chester Valley Trail, Schuylkill River Trail, and Struble Trail segments of the Circuit. Finishing the multi-use trail network of the Circuit is a priority of the county and partners. Municipalities and partners should work to advance local trails that tie into the broader network. View larger map

How we Connect