State Rep. Tim Twardzik and State Sen. Dave Argall said $1.38 million in Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside funding has been awarded for improvements along the Mill Creek section of the trail in the St. Clair and Frackville area.
The project will include construction of a trail bridge, a trailhead parking area, and approximately one-half mile of multiuse, nonmotorized trail north of the historic Mount Carbon Bowstring Truss.
According to the announcement, the work will help complete gaps from Phase 1 of the Mill Creek section of the Schuylkill River Trail, which is scheduled for construction this year.
Once completed, the project is expected to improve connectivity and provide safer alternative transportation options along the Route 61 corridor while further expanding the Schuylkill River Trail network.
“Expanding the Schuylkill River Trail is an important investment in both recreation and business opportunities for our communities,” Twardzik said. “It connects Frackville to Philadelphia, linking our anthracite heritage with the future of recreation and tourism. Tourism has grown to be Pennsylvania’s second-largest industry, playing a major role in our economy. Investments like this improve quality of life while supporting tourism and local economic growth tied to Schuylkill County’s outdoor assets.”
Argall said the funding is specifically designated for projects like trail development.
“This highly competitive funding can only be utilized for these kinds of trails,” Argall said. “I am pleased to see this project expand the nationally recognized Schuylkill River Trail between St. Clair and Frackville boroughs.”
The Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside program is funded through the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and supports projects that improve bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure while expanding safe transportation options.
Eligible applicants for the program include local governments, transit agencies, school districts, and other public entities responsible for transportation or recreational trail oversight.