The Partnership has heard a clear message from local residents: People want more trails close to home—places where they can walk, bike, and connect with their neighbors
(The following press release was provided verbatim by The Partnership TMA)
The Partnership For Transportation is thrilled to announce the launch of Liberty Bell Trailblazers, a new three-year initiative made possible through a major grant from the William Penn Foundation.
This transformative project will expand the Liberty Bell Trail and help connect more communities across Montgomery County and beyond.
Building on the recent success of its Bike More, Drive Less projects in Lansdale, Upper Gwynedd, and Hatfield, the Partnership has heard a clear message from local residents: people want more trails close to home—places where they can walk, bike, and connect with their neighbors.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside both long-time partners who have already built key segments of the Liberty Bell Trail, as well as new partners ready to turn plans into reality,” said Jacqui Baxter-Rollins, executive director of the Partnership For Transportation. “Together, we can accelerate progress on one of the region’s most important trail corridors.”
The Circuit Trails form a growing network of more than 500 miles of completed, funded, or planned trails across the Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey region, with an ambitious goal of more than 850 miles. Completion of the Liberty Bell Trail will serve as a vital link within this network, connecting communities to the Schuylkill River Trail and creating new opportunities for recreation, active transportation, and economic growth.
In 2021, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) conducted a comprehensive Gap Analysis of the Circuit Trails, reviewing nearly 300 unbuilt segments. That study identified the Liberty Bell Trail – Southern Connection as the top regional priority due to its potential impact and readiness for development.
“As a proud member of the Circuit Trails Coalition, we recognize how transformative the Liberty Bell Trail will be for Montgomery County and our region,” Baxter-Rollins added. “The William Penn Foundation has been instrumental in making trail expansion possible, supporting more than 100 new miles over the past decade and aiming for 75 more by 2035. We’re honored to contribute to that vision.”
About Partnership For Transportation
The Partnership For Transportation is dedicated to advancing accessible, affordable, safe, and sustainable transportation solutions.
Its innovative programs and services promote multi-modal transportation options: buses, trains, cycling, walking, and ride sharing.
Through advocacy, education, and collaboration, it strives to increase connectivity, improve community health, support economic development, reduce carbon emissions, and improve air quality.
Serving residents, employers, commuters, municipalities, and community-based organizations since 1993, this nonprofit agency is uniquely positioned to navigate the complex challenges associated with transportation within Montgomery County and advance solutions.
Learn more at www.partnershipfortransportation.org
About William Penn Foundation
The William Penn Foundation, founded in 1945 by Otto and Phoebe Haas, is committed to expanding access to resources and opportunities that promote a more vital and just city and region for all. We do this through funding programs in the Philadelphia region in arts and culture, children and families, democracy and civic initiatives, environment and public space, and workforce training and services. Learn more at www.williampennfoundation.org.
