WILLIAMSPORT, PA — A bold step was taken for outdoor enthusiasts and economic growth alike as Lycoming County celebrated a monumental $649,900 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). The funding, part of the Shapiro Administration’s sweeping initiative to expand trail systems statewide, will kickstart Phase 1 of the much-anticipated Susquehanna River Walk Extension.
“This project isn’t just about trails,” declared DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn during her visit to Williamsport. “It’s about investing in communities—in the health of the people who live here, in their connection to one another, and in the businesses that thrive because of them.”
With a vision anchored in connectivity, the first phase of this 1.46-mile trail extension will connect the Maynard Street entrance of the Susquehanna River Walk to Elm Park and the Lycoming Creek Bikeway. Currently, infrastructure like US Highway 15 and Interstate 180 poses daunting barriers between existing pathways and Susquehanna State Park. This development not only bridges those gaps but lays the foundation for a vibrant and seamless network that could one day stretch from Williamsport to Jersey Shore and possibly link to the renowned Pine Creek Rail Trail.
But this is just the beginning. State investments in trails statewide total a hefty $10 million this year alone, backing 36 projects aimed at filling critical trail gaps and furthering connectivity—a vision that melds health improvements, economic growth, and outdoor recreation under one strategy.
Transforming Lycoming County for the Better
What does this grant mean for Lycoming County? It means more than a scenic walking path. It means a healthier, more active community with easier access to recreation and nature. It also means a thriving local economy, powered by the outdoor tourism boom this project is poised to bring.
Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter hailed the investment as transformational. “This project is a testament to the power of partnerships—bringing together our community, municipal, and regional efforts. It will have a lasting positive impact across the region, promoting outdoor recreation and driving economic growth for years to come,” he said.
Tourism, after all, is no small player in Pennsylvania’s economic lineup. Already a key part of the Pennsylvania Wilds and Lumber Heritage Region, this extension further cements Lycoming County’s status as a competitive outdoor destination—a draw for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers from near and far.
State Senator Gene Yaw echoed this sentiment, highlighting the bigger picture. “By investing in this project, we’re laying the groundwork for economic growth, promoting outdoor recreation, and boosting tourism,” he said. “The Susquehanna River Walk extension will enhance the quality of life for Lycoming County residents while attracting visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and history of our region.”
A Statewide Vision for Trails
The River Walk Extension is part of a broader, statewide push to revolutionize Pennsylvania’s trail networks. The Shapiro Administration, prioritizing connectivity like never before, has made closing Pennsylvania’s “Top Ten Trail Gaps” a major focus. Over the past two years, the DCNR has tackled four of these trail gaps, and nine of this year’s projects will address similarly critical voids.
The administration’s plan has paired state-level funding with local investments, creating momentum that extends well beyond individual trail systems. Case in point? The $33.9 million overall investment tied to this year’s projects—a figure that represents not just taxpayer funding, but also the enthusiasm and backing of local communities looking for their piece of a greener, more connected future.
Beyond Trails—A Ripple Effect
From stormwater management improvements to better accessibility for residents of all abilities, the Susquehanna River Walk Extension promises ripple effects well beyond outdoor fitness paths. That’s because trails don’t just boost local economies; they improve community cohesion, mental health, and sustainability efforts.
Consider equity, for example. By making outdoor spaces more accessible, Pennsylvania is tackling barriers that disproportionately impact lower-income families—a group often left behind when it comes to fitness and recreation access.
Or think about sustainability. The DCNR’s trail grants don’t just link towns—they link people to nature, reducing urban sprawl and fostering appreciation for Pennsylvania’s unparalleled natural resources.
A Future of Connectivity and Growth
What’s next for Lycoming County? For starters, a trail system that doesn’t just stop at city limits. Eventually, this newfound connectivity could pave the way for a regional identity defined by outdoor access—not just for residents but visitors ready to explore the beauty of the Susquehanna Greenway.
For Secretary Dunn, that vision is the heart of the project. “This development goes beyond providing a recreation space. It’s setting the stage for Lycoming County to lead the way in enhancing lifestyles, supporting local economies, and solidifying its place in Pennsylvania’s outdoor legacy.”
The question now is not whether trails will transform Pennsylvania—it’s how soon. With initiatives like the Susquehanna River Walk Extension taking root, Williamsport’s future looks vibrant, revitalized, and firmly connected to an outdoors-driven economy that is poised to thrive for generations.
The trail to progress has been paved—literally. All that’s left is to choose the next destination.
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