Topper, Stefano announce $124,780 grant to advance Old PA Pike Trail Development
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WTAJ) — A long-awaited project to transform a portion of the abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike into a multi-use trail received a boost with a $124,780 state grant, officials announced Monday.
The Bedford Fulton Joint Recreation Authority secured the funding through the Commonwealth Financing Authority's Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program. The grant will cover professional services, environmental assessments, land surveying, and administrative costs to advance the Old PA Pike Trail project.
State Rep. Jesse Topper (R-Bedford/Fulton) highlighted the project's potential to drive tourism and local economic growth. 'The old turnpike has long been a destination for bike riders and the curious,' Topper said. 'This funding will help our local authority bring its plan to reality and will ultimately bring additional tourism dollars to our communities.'
The trail development involves repurposing the turnpike's Ray's Hill and Sideling Hill tunnels, which require engineering assessments to evaluate their current condition and ensure safety for recreational use.
Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) noted the importance of preserving the trail as a community asset. 'By securing the professional expertise to assess the tunnels safety, this funding helps take an important step toward ensuring the trails longevity as a part of the ever-growing recreation scene in Bedford,' Stefano said.
The Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program, funded by Marcellus Shale impact fees, supports planning and development projects that enhance greenways and outdoor spaces across Pennsylvania.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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