A 5.5-mile section of the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail (LVRT) will get improvements starting this fall, thanks to a $1.6-million grant from PennDOT’s Transportation Alternatives Set Aside program.
The work includes resurfacing and, in some places, paving as well as adding a new bollard, putting down new stone and mounting new signs, according to the application submitted by county planning and the Lebanon County Metropolitan Planning Organization.
This stretch, the southernmost portion of the trail, is one of the most heavily used by bicyclists, hikers, pedestrians, runners, and nature observers. The LVRT estimates about 275,000 users take advantage of the recreational opportunities afforded by the trail.
While the portion to be improved starts at Butler Road in West Cornwall Township, most of the 5.5 miles is in South Londonderry Township. The work will end at the Lancaster County line.
Constructed in 1998, this section was one of the first of the former rail line to be turned into a recreational trail, said Jon Fitzkee, assistant director and senior transportation planner for Lebanon County Planning.
One goal of the rehabilitation and reconstruction is to address safety. Because of increased storm runoff, this section has washouts and ruts, Fitzkee said. Accidents have occurred along this section due to rough riding surfaces and ditches, according to the application.
The application noted that the LVRT is “often called the #1 quality of life initiative” in the county with support from commissioners, county planning and municipalities through which it runs. Wilson Consulting Group, rail trail engineer, helped to develop the scope of work and will oversee it.
The work is schedule to begin this fall and continue through winter 2027.
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