Ciresi announces $428K grant for Royersford Trestle Bridge rehabilitation

HARRISBURG, Oct. 15 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, today announced $428,000 in grant funding to continue rehabilitation of the Royersford Trestle Bridge and other development along the Schuylkill River Trail.

This investment is part of a statewide announcement of roughly $7.6 million in funding from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Recreation and Conservation grant program. The funds allotted to Royersford Borough are to be used for the development of the Schuylkill River Trail, including rehabilitation of the Royersford Trestle Bridge, ADA access, landscaping, project sign and other related site improvements.

“This funding for the joining of our twin boroughs [Spring City and Royersford] with a rehabilitated trestle bridge is another great step toward waterfront revitalization and bringing the towns together,” Ciresi said. “Greater walkability and bike access will improve connections for residents of both boroughs to recreational trails, schools, small businesses and grocery stores, while highlighting the historic industrial link that the trestle bridge once provided.”

Rehabilitation of the Royersford Trestle Bridge, which connects walkers, runners and bikers on the Schuylkill River Trail from Royersford to Spring City, has been ongoing.

Nearly a year ago, Ciresi announced a $1 million grant for restoration of the 1919 railroad trestle bridge, which is approximately 1,020 feet long and requires extensive repairs. The total project cost was estimated at the time to be $1.4 million.

“Completion of this trestle project will mean increased opportunity for leisure, recreation and tourism in our community,” Ciresi said. “Being able to restore a century-old railroad bridge not only keeps Royersford and Spring City connected, but it adds to the beauty of our region and the safety of the entire Schuylkill River Trail.”

In Pennsylvania, outdoor recreation generates $29.1 billion in consumer spending, $1.9 billion in state and local tax revenue, $8.6 billion in wages and salaries, and sustains 251,000 direct Pennsylvania jobs.

More information about this grant is available by contacting Ciresi’s office at 484-200-8265.