Friends of the Wissahickon Annual Public Projects Meeting

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).

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.