The D&L Blog

Shaping the Future of Lehigh Valley Greenways

Municipal leaders and regional partners from across the Lehigh Valley came together on October 28 at the historic Wilbur Mansion in Bethlehem for the Lehigh Valley Greenways Municipal Leaders Gathering. The event provided updates on conservation and recreation priorities, while fostering collaboration among township managers, public works staff, parks and recreation directors, and grant writers. 

Opening remarks were delivered by Lehigh County Executive Phil Armstrong and Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure, setting the tone for a day focused on partnership and progress. 

Lehigh County Executive Phil Armstrong embraced the spirit of collaboration, stating, “By doing things together, we get stuff done.” 

Following the welcome, representatives from key organizations—including Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, Northampton County Parks and Recreation Department, Northampton County Conservation District, and Appalachian Mountain Club—shared updates and resources on: 

• THE LINK Trail Network 

• Green infrastructure benefits and local case studies 

• Regional impacts of karst geology  

• Funding opportunities through the Highlands Conservation Act Expansion 

Speakers emphasized practical applications of green infrastructure, trail development strategies, and funding pathways to support local conservation efforts. 

Elected Officials Mixer: Engaging Leaders After Hours 

On October 29, the conversation continued at Rising River Brewing in Macungie with the inaugural Elected Officials Mixer—a new event designed to engage municipal leaders who may be unavailable during traditional business hours. 

The evening featured two formal presentations focused on: 

• Funding opportunities for local conservation and recreation projects 

• The role of the LV Greenways Conservation Landscape 

Attendees had the opportunity to network with county, nonprofit, and municipal leaders while learning how green infrastructure and outdoor recreation can enhance economic development, sustainability, and quality of life across the region. 

“Partnership is the greatest strength of the Lehigh Valley Greenways Conservation Landscape. By driving action around key opportunity areas, we continue to make meaningful progress in land preservation, environmental restoration, outdoor recreation and trail connectivity, as well as local education and outreach,” said DLNHC Conservation Manager Brit Kondravy.

Looking Ahead 

These events reflect the ongoing commitment of the Lehigh Valley Greenways Partnership to provide resources, foster collaboration, and support local leaders in advancing conservation and recreation initiatives. 

Together, partners across the region are working to strengthen our communities through open space preservation, trail connectivity, and sustainable infrastructure. 

Thank you to all participating partners for making the Municipal Leaders Gathering and Elected Officials Mixer a success! 

Visit lvgreenways.org to learn more about the Lehigh Valley Greenways Conservation Landscape, and follow on Facebook for the latest news and updates.