On August 22, a large group of state legislators, government officials, trail workers, construction contractors, D&L staff, and trail users gathered on the D&L Trail in Luzerne County to celebrate the official opening of the recycled bridge. The bridge extends the D&L Trail, which passes through Lehigh Gorge State Park and the town of White Haven, north towards Mountaintop and Wilkes-Barre (Note: There is currently a trail obstruction at Glen Summit).
This was a fitting culmination to a project that Trail Steward Scott Everett and a host of people from PennDOT, DCNR, Anthracite Scenic Trails Association, Mountaintop Trail Association, Pocono Whitewater, Dennison Township, Luzerne County, Greater White haven Chamber of Commerce, and White Haven Borough have been committed to for years.
Leading off the event was 11th Congressional District Representative Paul E. Kanjorski, who called the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, “a great example of how federal, state and local partners are working together to preserve important resources.” The congressman was followed by representatives from several organizations, who commented on the importance of the D&L Trail to expanding recreational opportunities in eastern Pennsylvania, spurring economic development, and continuing the Commonwealth’s legacy of conservation.
Everyone is encouraged to come out and experience this section of trail. Work will continue on improving the surface and adding directional signage, but the trail and bridge are now officially open to use.
The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor is more than trails and landmarks—it’s a living landscape where history, culture, and community come together.
These treasures can’t protect themselves. As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, your year-end gift will help us safeguard this remarkable region and create new opportunities for connection and discovery.