Why We Need a Bicycle and Pedestrian Path on the I-95 Delaware River Bridge

The Delaware River Bridge stands as a critical link between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, but it could also be a powerful new connection for cyclists and pedestrians—if we make the right decision.

UPDATE: On January 7th, John Boyer with the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission presented an update for the Delaware River Bridge Project at DVRPC’s Regional Technical Committee meeting. The members of the Circuit Trails Coalition recommended residents within the project area to consider a physically separated bicycle/pedestrian facility on the Delaware River Bridge to connect the Delaware River Heritage Trail to the Delaware & Lehigh Trail. In total, 1,240 surveys were completed to date. We’d like to thank those of you who submitted your responses in support of a bicycle and pedestrian path along the Delaware River Bridge. By connecting vital trails, providing safer travel options, and promoting environmental sustainability, we can create a healthier, more accessible, and more vibrant region for residents and visitors alike. 

Next Steps: The following slides were captured during the Turnpike Commission’s presentation for more information on the project timeline including the first round of public meetings scheduled in the Spring of 2025. 

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As the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission and New Jersey Turnpike Authority move forward with plans to replace or rehabilitate the bridge, the opportunity to include a bicycle and pedestrian pathway should be embraced. Adding this feature would not only enhance transportation options, but also benefit the surrounding communities, economy, and the environment.

Connecting Two States, Connecting Two Trails

A bicycle and pedestrian pathway would create a vital link in the Circuit Trails network, an 800-mile system of multi-use trails connecting the region. This path would connect two important trails—the Delaware & Lehigh (D&L) Trail in Pennsylvania and the Delaware River Heritage Trail in New Jersey—at a location where the nearest river crossing is 13 miles away. The addition of this pathway would bridge a significant gap, making it easier for cyclists and pedestrians to travel between the two states, while also boosting access to the surrounding natural beauty along the Delaware River.

In an era where sustainability and healthier lifestyles are key concerns, providing safe and convenient bike-pedestrian routes along such a major bridge is not just a nice idea, it’s a necessary step forward. It would foster the development of eco-friendly commuting options, promote tourism in the region, and provide local residents with a recreational and alternative transportation route.

Improved Accessibility and Safety

Imagine being able to safely cross the river, whether you’re commuting, exercising, or exploring the area’s parks, without the danger of sharing the road with cars.

Currently, no bicycle and pedestrian is crossing over the Delaware River exists between the Tacony Palmyra Bridge and the “Trenton Makes” bridge, a distance of about 25 miles. By adding a bike-ped pathway to the Delaware River Bridge, we would improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities. 

In addition, there is no direct public transportation link between Florence in Burlington County and Bristol in Bucks County, PA and is only possible by taking multiple trains and/or buses via Trenton, NJ. A pathway on the bridge would total about 1.8 miles from end to end, with a travel time of about 35 minutes walking or 15 minutes on a bicycle. A typical mid-day trip using NJ TRANSIT and SEPTA will take approximately 90-120 minutes, including walking and a transfer at Trenton.

Incorporating a bicycle and pedestrian path into the bridge project would be an environmental win, encouraging the use of greener modes of transportation, and aligning with broader regional goals of reducing carbon emissions and creating more sustainable infrastructure. A focus on walkability and cycling is a key factor in reducing our reliance on cars, which in turn helps reduce traffic pollution and contributes to a cleaner, more vibrant region.

Furthermore, the benefits of the project would ripple through the local economy. A well-designed pathway could draw more visitors to the area, benefiting local businesses, and enhancing the appeal of the region as a hub for outdoor activities. A boost in tourism could have long-term economic advantages, while increased cycling and walking activity would lead to healthier communities.