Parks and Recreation Briefs Community on Upcoming Canal and Towpath Improvements

It was a packed house at the Manayunk Brewery and Restaurant, as community members gathered to hear more about what improvements will be happening along the Manayunk Canal and Towpath. Rob Armstrong, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, gave a presentation to the crowd detailing what is in store for this unique piece of Philadelphia park land and trail and when it will take place. Also in attendance were representatives of the Schuylkill Project, Manayunk Development Corporation, The Bicycle Coalition, Philadelphia Water Department, and the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission.

Trail improvements are slated to begin in the summer of 2011. Just over 2 miles of the recreation path from Lock Street to Shawmont will be rehabilitated. This will include repairs to bridges and rail fencing, and the resurfacing of trails with an eye to erosion and sedimentation control. The majority of the trail will remain packed cinder, but there will be some porous asphalt paving where water run-off is an issue. Then in mid-2012, the Manayunk Canal will be dredged between Flat Rock Dam and Lock 68, and also two silt islands located downstream. The introduction of two 18” pipes will allow fresh water to enter the canal, improving the health of the waterway.

You can take a look at the Parks and Recreation presentation HERE. Destination Schuylkill River will post announcements of any periodic trail closings necessary to accommodate the work. Stay tuned for updates!