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The bridge was built to provide a safe crossing over the railroad tracks and a convenient connection between the Schuylkill Banks and the Schuylkill River Park. (Rendering by HNTB Corporation courtesy SRDC)

Starting next weekend, Saturday, October 20, pedestrians, bikers and stroller-pushers will be able to walk directly from the Schuylkill Banks to the Schuylkill River Park on a special Schuylkill River Parks Connector Bridge that spans the railroad.

The bridge, a 95-foot-long truncated arch truss structure, has a 12-foot-wide pathway with ADA accessible ramps on both approaches, at Locust Street and Race Street.

There are three overlooks (photo opp, anyone?) and architectural lighting and enhancements, making the new Schuylkill River Parks Connector Bridge an excellent, and much-needed, addition to the Schuylkill River Trail.

The bridge will provide super convenient access to the Schuylkill Banks, while addressing safety concerns (there will be crossing gates at both entrances to the bridge that will close when train traffic is approaching).

Better lighting and other cosmetic improvements will make the new Schuylkill River Parks Connector Bridge an irreplaceable addition to the Schuylkill River Trail. (Rendering by HNTB Corporation courtesy SRDC)

Design of this pedestrian bridge was funded by the Pew Charitable Trusts and the City of Philadelphia, and performed by HNTB Corporation with landscaping designed by Menke and Menke Landscape Architects.

There will be a special opening celebration on Saturday, October 20 in conjunction with the Fall Festival at Schuylkill River Park (more on that soon).

The bridge is one step in a larger development plan for the Schuylkill Banks, which also includes a half-mile boardwalk over the river that will extend from Locust Street all the way to South Street.

Schuylkill River Parks Connector Bridge [Schuylkill Banks]