This new three-mile connection strengthens access to Pennsylvania’s trail network while supporting local businesses, tourism and community recreation.

Critical investments from Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and Department of Transportation (PennDOT) — $3.5 million and $2.5 million, respectively — made the project possible, ensuring a safe, direct route between Wellsboro’s downtown shops, restaurants, hotels and the nationally recognized rail trail.

“This trail connection is a perfect example of how state and local collaboration can deliver real value to communities,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “It not only closes a major gap in our trail network but also strengthens Wellsboro as a destination for outdoor recreation. We’re proud to support projects that connect people to nature and enhance local economies.”

A visitor center at the northern terminus of the extension is set to open to the public this fall, and will feature community displays, local businesses, trail resources and local history.

PHOTO PROVIDED Cyclists and walkers use a portion of the new Pine Creek Rail Trail connection near Wellsboro following a special event on Friday.

“Transportation is about making connections, both literally and figuratively and when it’s completed, this project will do both,” said PennDOT District 3 Executive Eric High. “PennDOT was proud to collaborate with our partners on this project, and it’s a great reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together.”

The Pine Creek Rail Trail Northern Extension is the result of close collaboration among DCNR, PennDOT, Tioga County’s Planning Department, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) and local municipalities.

“The Pine Creek Rail Trail Extension is a shining example of what can be accomplished through strong partnerships and a shared vision,” said Tioga County Commissioner Marc Rice. “From the very beginning, this project has been guided by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ commitment to expanding outdoor recreation and connecting communities through Pennsylvania’s trail network.”

Pennsylvania boasts 14,000 miles of trails, and the Commonwealth is working toward the goal of ensuring every Pennsylvanian lives within 10 minutes of a trail. DCNR is investing in strategic projects that expand trail access, connect communities and drive economic growth, focusing on the Top 10 Trail Gaps that:

— Connect existing trail sections

PHOTO PROVIDED A portion of the connector between the Pine Creek Rail Trail and Wellsboro is pictured.

— Require major infrastructure construction or rehabilitation

— Have significant funding needs, generally over $1 million

— Require interagency coordination

The four previous Top 10 Trail Gaps closed under the Shapiro Administration are: the Bridge Street Crossing on the D&L Trail in Bucks County, the South Bethlehem Greenway connection in Northampton County, the Brady Tunnel in Clarion County and the Musser Gap Trail link in Rothrock State Forest in Centre County.

DCNR has now added two new gaps to its Top 10 list:

— Three Rivers Heritage Trail between Etna and Millvale boroughs

— Armstrong Trail in Allegheny Township.