Delaware County has officially launched its new Primary Trail Network (PTN) Information Hub in October 2025. PTN is a dynamic online resource designed to help residents, planners, and local leaders understand and explore the County’s fast-growing multi-use trail system. The hub represents years of planning and community engagement. It is a major step toward Delco’s vision of creating a fully connected, non-motorized regional network accessible to everyone.
The PTN Information Hub was spearheaded by Delaware County Planning Director Gina Burritt and built by the County’s GIS team led by Julie DelMuto. It brings clarity and transparency to a complex network. Users can explore interactive maps, track trail progress in real time, read detailed StoryMaps for each corridor, and review project documents. It is a highly streamlined resource for everyone, whether they’re experienced cyclists planning weekend routes or residents curious about trail improvements coming to their neighborhood.
The Primary Trail Network includes 135 miles of identified trail corridors. More than 45 miles are open, with additional miles in design, feasibility studies, or long-term conceptual stages. These trails are designed to be wide, hard-surface, ADA-accessible paths that knit together the best of Delco—its parks, neighborhoods, business districts, and natural landscapes. They also form important links to the Circuit Trails, a regional initiative that aims to create more than 750 miles of interconnected trails across Greater Philadelphia.
The idea for the Hub grew from Burritt’s desire to make trail planning more accessible to the public. “The PTN Information Hub makes it easy for everyone to see where we’ve been, where we are today, and where we’re headed. It reflects years of collaborative planning and the commitment of our partners in DVRPC, the William Penn Foundation, and The Circuit Trails Coalition,” she said.
Beyond recreation, Delco’s trail network is increasingly understood as a driver of economic growth, public health, environmental restoration, and quality of life. The County’s “Return on Environment” study shows the far-reaching impact of protected open space and trails:
- $52 million in annual economic activity
- 590 local jobs supported
- $142.6 million in annual recreation benefits
- More than $153 million in avoided medical costs
- Near $689 million added to home values
Environmental benefits are equally important, as they include reduced pollution, improved water quality, carbon storage, flood mitigation, and savings of over $120 million in stormwater management costs. As Delaware County Councilmember Elaine Paul Schaefer explains, “Trails improve quality of life by encouraging exercise, reducing medical costs, and providing access to nature for all. They also strengthen our economy and help preserve the natural beauty of Delco.”
The PTN connects residents to beloved regional corridors, including the East Coast Greenway, Chester Creek Trail, Darby Creek Trail, and Radnor Trail. Trail development continues to accelerate with dozens of active projects. Many are led in partnership with municipalities, nonprofits, and regional agencies. Communities across the county are investing in safe, accessible, and scenic pathways, including the Chester Creek Trail expansions in Middletown and Chester, new segments along Darby Creek in Lansdowne and Upper Darby, and the growing network in Chadds Ford and Concord.
The new hub has been made available at a time of heightened regional enthusiasm for trails. The Circuit Trails Coalition is nearing its goal of completing 500 miles by 2025. It advocates across Delco to push for safer streets, stronger infrastructure, and seamless trail connectivity.
Delaware County residents now have the PTN Information Hub at their fingertips to help shape the future of local trails. To explore and stay informed, whether you’re a cyclist, runner, walker, nature lover, or simply curious, the network is just a click away at DelcoPA.Link/PTN-Hub.
"The PTN Information Hub makes it easy for everyone to see where we’ve been, where we are today, and where we’re headed in expanding trails across Delco." - Gina Burritt, Planning Director
“This work is about building a better future for generations to come.” - Elaine Paul Schaefer, Councilmember