French and Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust is currently overseeing the development of two major trail corridors in the French and Pickering Creek. The French Creek Trail was originally proposed in 1981 by Trust founders Sam and Eleanor Morris as a 10-mile non-motorized path from Warwick County Park, South Coventry Township, heading east to the Kennedy Covered Bridge in East Vincent Township. The Pickering Trail is planned to follow the creek corridor in West Pikeland Township, from the Mill at Anselma to the township border at Clover Mill Road, a distance of 6 miles.
Both projects incorporate parcels of preserved land, County and Township-owned open space and trails and a number of private and institutional properties. The goal is to place the entire length of both trails under formal protection, through the purchase or donation of easements. The trails provide public access to preserved land, recreational opportunities for the community and a view into the serene beauty along Exceptional Value waterways. Connections to regional trail networks are possible, including the Horse-Shoe Trail and a planned link to the Schuylkill River Greenway from Phoenixville.
The French Creek Trail has received a number of grants from the public and private sector, illustrating the level of interest and financial support a recreational, public access project can generate. Just within the last year the grants have totaled $148,000, with a previous award of $78,000 from the Chester County Preservation Partnership Program.
Recent funders include:
- PA Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources
- Phoenixville Community Health Foundation
- PA Dept. of Community and Economic Development
- The George and Miriam Martin Foundation
- PECO Energy Green Region Program
- East and West Vincent and South Coventry Townships
- The Rosato Foundation
The Pickering Trail Feasibility Study is being funded by grants from PECO Energy and West Pikeland Township.
Trail projects are challenging, necessitating the coordination of numerous stakeholders and landowners. Success stems from the cooperation and support of the funding agencies and the generosity and willingness of property owners who allow the public to traverse their land. Road and stream crossings require numerous permits, aesthetically pleasing designs, and attention to safety. The future success of the trails is dependent on a comprehensive maintenance and management program, already in the making through the “Friends of the French Creek Trail” volunteer organization.
Please address any trail comments or questions to:
Pam Brown, Conservation Director
PJBrown503@AOL.com |
