Project Phasing

Moore Road Multipurpose Trail and Linear Park

Project phasing for the Moore Road Multipurpose Trail and Linear Park will depend on several factors including the ability of the District to obtain necessary easements from property owners and the success of grant applications / project funding.

Based on the constraints and opportunities presented by the site topography and layout, it is recommended that the east side of the Moore Road Multipurpose Trail and Linear Park be developed first. This is based on less challenging topographic conditions, fewer properties, and initial feedback from property owners. The priorities of this project indicate that one entire side of the Moore Road trail be completed first to ensure a safe pedestrian/ bike link along the entire length of the road.

Intersection improvements, roadway crosswalk, rapid flashing beacons and other motor vehicle / pedestrian conflict safety-enhancement measures are likely to be implemented over time, sometimes coinciding with adjacent parcel redevelopment. Some of these improvements might be prioritized if, for example, an unforeseen obstacle is encountered on the east side of Moore Road and it become necessary to create a safe crossing of the road to continue along the west side of the road.

The development of the proposed SEPTA train station at the southern terminus of Moore Road will be a catalyst to the development of the trail/ linear park. The introduction of large amounts of transit riders to the area will highlight the urgent need for safe ped/ bike connections along Moore Road.

Connection to the Schuylkill River Trail West

The first segments of this connection will occur with the completion of the Valley Forge Road (SR0023) realignment, the construction of the

Mancill Mill Road intersection improvements and the construction of new sidewalks along SR0023. The Township has committed to building sidewalks along Mancill Mill Road north from the intersection with SR 0023 to take pedestrians at least partway to the Schuylkill River Trail West. Preferred Trail Alignment ‘C’ (from the Moore Road Trail) through 760 Moore Road will likely occur when and if that site is redeveloped.

The adaptive reuse of the former rail alignment owned by Norfolk Southern Railroad is a key in the connection to the SRTW. This study recommends that Upper Merion Township take the lead in obtaining the former rail alignment and developing the trail.

This report suggests a goal that the completed trail and park improvement be accomplished by 2030.