Forming a part of the Central Delaware Master Plan, the trail has transformed the Delaware River waterfront into a walkable and bikeable destination. The trail is said to be the first-of-its-kind in the city to provide a 12′ bi-directional bikeway separated from a 10′ pedestrian walkway, all buffered from the street by plantings and a curb.

The trail is running for 1400 linear feet, from Spring Garden Street to Ellen Street. This segment has incorporated streetscape improvements that will be used for the entire waterfront trail, which will eventually run from Oregon Avenue to Allegheny Avenue.

The design element of the trail includes rain gardens that will collect the first inch of storm water, relieving the city’s sewer system during major weather events. Making the trail more attractive, it will feature beautiful and distinctive street furniture, including benches and bike racks, decorative street pavers, and innovative solar trail lighting.

The trail segment is part of the East Coast Greenway, which will provide a crucial bicycle network connection for the city and the region. It will also create an important connection to Spring Garden Street, the site of a planned bike trail connecting the Delaware River to the Schuylkill River.

DRWC worked closely with the Philadelphia Streets Department, Water Department and PennDOT to design and construct the trail which was constructed by AP Construction.