The overall scope of this project was to identify feasible trail alternatives to connect Valley Forge Park and the Schuylkill River Trail to the Chester Valley Trail via North Gulph Road. This trail – if constructed – could serve as a major link and connection in the region’s Circuit Trail Network by traversing through the rapidly-growing King of Prussia area, including the Village at Valley Forge. This collaborative planning effort included input and assistance from TPD’s Environmental, Roadway and Structures teams, as well as consultant assistance from Glackin Thomas Panzak, in preparing photo visualizations.

The project included extensive coordination with Valley Forge National Historical Park, PennDOT, the Pennsylvania Turnpike, Upper Merion Township and Boles Smyth (who was in the midst of designing the relocation of North Gulph Road as part of a local-led TIP project.)

Overall, TPD identified five alignments for making the end-to-end trail connection; the team prepared Concept Plans and cost estimates for all alignments, which ranged from $3.6 to $5.8 million, and summarized the environmental impact of each. Additionally, TPD provided recommendations for a trail crossing of Trout Creek as well as alternatives for traversing under or over US 422.