Franklin County Boosts Rail Trail Expansion

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – The Franklin County Commissioners are providing support to the Shippensburg Community Parks and Recreation Authority’s plan to expand the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail (CVRT) into Franklin County.

On Wednesday, the commissioners approved $45,000 in funding from Act 13 Marcellus Shale impact fees for the project, which will include the construction of a trail between Orrstown Road and Clifton Road in Shippensburg Borough. The project also includes creating a parking lot at the Orrstown Road terminus; installing Clifton Road trailhead amenities such as an access gate, bollards and concrete apron; and painting shared lane markings at Clifton and Roxbury roads.

The Orrstown-to-Clifton project is Phase 1 of a planned expansion of the multi-use CVRT into Franklin County. The CVRT follows the path of the former Cumberland Valley Railroad and currently features 13 continuous miles from Shippensburg to Newville. The CVRT Council estimates nearly 100,000 individuals use this section of trail each year.

“We see this as a great project that will enhance tourism, economic development and the overall quality of life in Franklin County,” said Commissioner Chairman Dave Keller.

The council’s long-term plans include connecting the CVRT to the Chambersburg Rail Trail and points beyond, eventually meeting the C&O Canal Towpath in Washington County, Maryland.

Return to list.