Background/Analysis/Issues:

DVRPC was awarded a five-year $5,067,500 grant from the William Penn Foundation to assist with the planning, design, and construction of multi-use trails comprising the Circuit Trails, as well as with the planning, design, and construction of connecting infrastructure. The grant emphasizes advancing the Foundation’s goal of adding at least 75 miles to the network by 2035.

Of the $5,067,500, $4.55 million will be re-granted to plan, design, or construct Circuit Trails and connecting infrastructure, and $517,500 will support DVRPC administration of the grant program, management of awarded grants, and continuing efforts to provide technical assistance to municipalities, counties, and other trail developers. The implementation of the Circuit Trails is identified as a regional priority in Update: Connections 2050.

The period of performance will be five years, commencing upon signature of the grant agreement between DVRPC and the William Penn Foundation.

Cost and Source of Funds:

$5,067,500 from the William Penn Foundation

The DVRPC Board amends the DVRPC FY2026 Unified Planning Work Program to include the project, Regional Trails Program Re-Grants, and authorize the Executive Director to enter a contract with the William Penn Foundation for this project.