Allegheny River communities receive $805,000 for trail expansion, maintenance

River trails have become increasingly popular in Pittsburgh, as the region transitions away from using its waterways for heavy industry and instead sees them as outdoor recreation opportunities.

That trend continues as several communities along the Allegheny River have received more than $805,000 in state grants to expand and maintain their riverfront trails. Funding comes from the state’s Keystone Fund, and the grants are administered by a program from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

State Sen. Lindsey Williams, who represents much of the Allegheny River Valley, said the funding helps to preserve community assets, and should help with stormwater management and flooding issues in Aspinwall, Harrison, O’Hara, Shaler, Reserve and the city of Pittsburgh.

“We can conserve the environment and improve our quality of life by investing in our shared parks and green spaces,” Williams said in a release.

Aspinwall Riverfront Park will receive $300,000 to construct a pedestrian walkway and wildlife viewing platforms, as well as streambank stabilization and other stormwater management measures.

Harrison Township will receive $70,100 to rehab and expand access to the Three Rivers Water Trail, which includes construction of pedestrian walkways and rehabilitation of the parking lot.

More than $62,000 is going to O’Hara for the development of hiking trails in the township’s community park. The city of Pittsburgh will receive $73,000 for maintenance and management of its Three Rivers Heritage Trail, which runs along the city’s three rivers.

Lastly, the Allegheny Land Trust will receive $300,000 to purchase 46 acres in Shaler and Reserve to preserve as open space for passive recreation activities.