Baker, Fritz Announce $2.9 Million for Lanesboro Sidewalks and D&H Rail Trail Enhancements

HARRISBURG -- Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20) and Rep. Jonathan Fritz (R-111th) announced today more than $2.9 million in state funding from the PennDOT Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside (TASA) program for two projects in Susquehanna County.

Lanesboro Borough will receive $1.5 million in state funding to construct concrete curbs and sidewalks along the east side of Route 171 from the Susquehanna Community School District's High School entrance northward approximately 1,100 feet to the intersection of State Route 1009. The sidewalks and curbs will meet current ADA standards to ensure a safe, accessible walking corridor for all students, encouraging walking and biking as viable, active transportation options, promoting health and reducing traffic congestion.

Rail-Trail Council of NEPA, Inc. will receive a state investment of $1,488,386 for a 4-mile rail-trail project in Susquehanna County traversing Ararat and Thompson townships and Thompson Borough to connect projects underway in Thompson Borough. Improvements to the D&H Rail-Trail will include drainage improvements, resurfacing, a trailhead, access control and signage.

"This substantial state investment will help us to complete two impactful projects in Susquehanna County," said Baker. "Funding critical pedestrian improvements in Lanesboro Borough around Susquehanna High School will provide a safer and more accessible walking and biking route for students, teachers and residents. Susquehanna County is also home to some of the best recreational opportunities and outdoor spaces in our commonwealth. The new 4-mile trail that will travel through Ararat and Thompson townships, as well as Thompson Borough will continue to give our families of all ages opportunities to spend more time outdoors while strengthening those communities and improving quality of life."

"Happy to see the great folks of Lanesboro benefit with this project. Life in a river valley corridor can be challenging, given the topography. These upgrades ensure safety, easy traversing and an increase in property values," said Fritz. "Our region is an outdoor adventurist's paradise. This investment in the D&H Rail-Trail continues the buildout of a truly unique and inviting trail system. Susquehanna County continues to be a one-of-kind destination, all while being an amazing place to live, work and raise a family."

The federal TASA program provides funding for projects and activities defined as transportation alternatives, including on- and off-road pedestrian and bicycle facilities, infrastructure projects for improving non-driver access to public transportation and enhanced mobility, community improvement activities, environmental mitigation, trails that serve transportation purpose and safe routes to school projects.