Abington Gets $450,000 in Federal Funding for Trail Project

ABINGTON, PA -- Two local trail projects are among 51 "alternative transportation" initiatives around the state that have received $33 million in federal funding, Governor Wolf's office announced on Tuesday.

“These projects are important initiatives that enhance communities across Pennsylvania to create stronger economies and better infrastructure,” Governor Wolf said in a statement. “Making these improvements will enhance pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improve access to public transportation, create safe routes to school, preserve historic transportation structures, provide environmental mitigation, create trails that serve a transportation purpose, and promote safety and mobility.”

There were three projects that received funding in Montgomery County, including one in Abington and another in Cheltenham.

Abington will receive $450,000 to help fund the construction of a 3.26-mile on-road and off-road trail across the northern tier of the township, according to the governor's office.

In Cheltenham, meanwhile, $700,000 will be awarded to help build a one-mile segment of Tookany Creek Trail. The trail begins at Harrison Avenue and runs to New Second Street, and includes a 135-foot-long pedestrian bridge over Tookany Creek, officials said.

The funding comes as a result of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century, the 2012 federal transportation authorization act.

Three projects in Montgomery County were awarded funding, as an initiative in Limerick Township was selected as well.

PennDOT chose applications to fund based on safety benefits, reasonable cost, and regional significance, among other factors.

Patch file photo.