Apple Tree Alley discussed at June Borough Council meeting

The Alleywalk behind Old Sledworks (from SEDA-COG plans)

Apple Tree Alley is an old railroad right-of-way running from Fritz Avenue to Noye Park between High and Market Streets in Duncannon Borough and future plans for this underutilized corridor were up for discussion at the June Borough Council meeting as funding opportunities for federal and state programs have been proposed.  In 2009, SEDA-COG completed concept plans to convert the Alley into a pedestrian/bike-path for community use.  As proposed, the AlleyWalk would extend approximately one mile in length between Little Juniata Creek and Fritz Avenue.  The AlleyWalk would be constructed within the limits of the existing Borough right-of-way and could also serve as the route of the Appalachian Trail through the Borough - guiding hikers through a linear town park with connecting hiker-amenities, community services, historic sites, and businesses.  

Visit the Apple Tree Alleywalk page for more info.

But even more than its significance within the Susquehanna Greenway and Appalachian Trail Corridor, the SEDA-COG concept plans note that the Alleywalk is about making Duncannon a better place - increasing its attraction as a place to live, work and play - and improving public health by making better use of Apple Tree Alley as a community destination for walking and bicycling.  The Alleywalk can also enhance real estate value and create new business opportunity in Duncannon.  While maintenance of existing infrastructure is always important, this project is considered an investment geared towards improving public health, beautifying the downtown area, and better taking advantage of the outdoor recreation and heritage tourism visitor spending in the greater Capitol region.

At the June meeting, Borough Council voted to proceed in holding public meetings and beginning to address right-of-way issues, with the caveat that the project will be on the ballot in November as a non-binding referendum.  Stay tuned for public meeting announcements in the Borough Newsletter!

CitizenStandard.com

In a similar-type project, Millersburg recently had a ribbon-cutting ceremony for their Riverfront Park which includes an asphalt hiking/biking pathway, additional paved parking and the erection of a welcome center.  Read more in a recent article from the Republican-Herald or better yet, go check it out!! 



Millersburg Riverfront Park boasts new path, upgrades