Public meeting on D&L Trail segment project announced

The Anthracite Scenic Trails Association (ASTA) plans a public meeting on Thursday at 7 p.m. to discuss a new trail project. The meeting will be held at the Earth Conservancy office in Ashley. This project aims to create a multi-purpose trail between Oliver Mills and Mountain Top, in an area where the old Lehigh Valley Railroad used to be. Richard Cochrane, the treasurer of ASTA, stated the trail will be improved for walking and biking. Currently, it's rough, but the plan includes grading the surface and adding fencing where needed. A trailhead is planned near the Mountain Top Hose Company on Woodlawn Avenue. Cochrane highlighted the benefits of trails, like providing outdoor recreation and attracting tourists. The project will have little effect on vehicle traffic, but the trail might be closed during construction. It will cover areas in Fairview Township, Hanover Township, and Laurel Run Borough. Cochrane mentioned that if more funding becomes available, they may extend the trail toward Wilkes-Barre in the future. The design of the trail will be funded mainly by the Department of Community and Economic Development, alongside ASTA's funds. Construction funding will come from Pennsylvania's Department of Environmental Resources and PennDOT, under a program aimed at transportation alternatives. The advertisement for construction is expected this summer, with work beginning in Fall 2025 or Spring 2026. ASTA is also working on a separate project to connect the Back Mountain Trail and the Luzerne County Levy Trail. This project is still at an early stage, with expected development starting in 2026. The nonprofit group is dedicated to maintaining the trails and expanding access to the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, which will eventually cover 165 miles from Wilkes-Barre to Washington Crossing.