Otten announces half a million in trail and transportation grants

EAST PIKELAND TOWNSHIP, Nov. 19 — State Rep. Danielle Friel Otten, D-Chester, today announced that two communities within her legislative district each received grants from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development that will improve walkability and ADA access to area walkways.

One grant for $395,028 was awarded to East Pikeland Township. Funding comes from the Multimodal Transportation Fund and will go toward pedestrian safety improvements along state routes 23 and 724. This includes constructing sidewalks and bus shelters, providing safe access to bus stops and adding ADA accessibility features.

“State routes 23 and 724 are major transportation hubs that are used by more than 20,000 vehicles per day. This project will help to promote use of public transportation along these corridors and ensure that the roadways are as safe and accessible as possible for all who use them,” Otten said.

The second award was a $113,642 Greenways, Trails and Recreation grant for Spring City. This grant will help construct an ADA accessible parklet and trail connecter between downtown Spring City and the corner of Main Street and Yost Avenue, linking the Schuylkill River Trail and the borough’s business district. Trailhead signage will also be installed.

“Creating an accessible link between downtown Spring City, municipal parking and the Schuylkill River Trail is an exciting next step in the community’s ongoing work to revitalize its downtown business district,” Otten said. “I am grateful to the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation grant program for supporting this project to connect residents with both nature and their local small businesses.”

Questions may be directed to Otten’s office by calling 484-200-8259.