Friends of the Wissahickon’s Annual Public Projects Meeting Addresses Sustainable Trail Initiative and More – Jan. 24

Join Friends of the Wissahickon (FOW) on Wednesday, Jan. 24, to discuss the ongoing Sustainable Trails Initiative (STI) and other FOW projects with guest speaker Chris Bernhardt, professional trail builder and principal of Sentieros Consulting. The meeting takes places from 6 – 7:30 p.m. at Allens Lane Art Center (601 W. Allens Lane, Philadelphia, 19118). [Photo attached.]

One of the members of the original STI consulting team, Bernhardt will share his perspectives on the successes and challenges of STI and present a first look at FOW’s ambitious plan to complete the project. Working in diverse locations from China to Switzerland, he brings expertise in land use, transportation, advocacy, and public outreach to develop projects that are both economically and environmentally sustainable. Bernhardt holds a master’s degree in urban and regional planning from Portland State University.

The Sustainable Trails Initiative (STI) is a multi-year campaign to create a sustainable trail network that limits erosion and protects the fragile forest habitat while enhancing recreational experiences throughout Wissahickon Valley Park. Through the STI program, FOW builds trails that remain dry, shed water off the trail surface, and provide safe footing for all trail users. The STI is funded by the William Penn Foundation, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania Commonwealth Financing Authority – Department of Community and Economic Development, and multiple private donors.

This meeting is free and open to the public. Register here.

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About Friends of the Wissahickon

Founded in 1924, Friends of the Wissahickon (FOW) is the oldest and largest nonprofit volunteer organization working in partnership with Philadelphia Parks and Recreation to preserve and restore historical park structures and trails, eliminate invasive plant species, and monitor watershed management issues throughout the 1,800-acre Wissahickon Valley Park. Follow FOW @FOWissahickon on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For more information or to become a member, visit www.fow.org.