🚂 Chester County Acquires Historic Trestle Bridge, Eyes Trail Expansion

Downingtown Local Pulse Issue #451

Author

Chesco Sean
28 May

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Chester County Acquires Historic Trestle Bridge, Eyes Trail Expansion

DOWNINGTOWN, PA — The iconic Trestle Bridge in Chester County, a towering remnant of early 20th-century rail infrastructure, has officially changed hands from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to Chester County for a symbolic $1. The transfer, approved unanimously by county commissioners, is a key step in plans to connect the structure to the Chester Valley Trail system, extending recreational pathways westward toward Downingtown.

While the bridge’s architectural and historical value is widely recognized, its recent history includes a troubling series of suicides, prompting public concern and the eventual installation of protective fencing by PennDOT. County leaders have pledged that any trail development will prioritize safety, with Commissioner Eric Roe calling for complete enclosure of the span.

Built in 1903-04, the bridge stretches 1,450 feet and rises 132 feet above the Brandywine Creek. Originally designed for freight trains, it has sat unused for decades.

Infrastructure Upgrade Prompts Long-Term Closure of Whitford Road

UWCHLAN TWP — Starting June 16, weekday closures will affect Whitford Road in Chester County as Aqua Pennsylvania begins a water main replacement project under a PennDOT permit. The work, which runs through the end of December, will close the road between Huffman Drive and Devon Drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., though local access will be preserved.

Detours will redirect drivers via Business U.S. 30, Route 100, and Route 113. The project is intended to improve regional water service infrastructure. Traffic delays are expected, especially during peak hours, and motorists are encouraged to use caution and plan additional travel time.

Upper Uwchlan Township Seeks Public Input on Pottstown Pike and Graphite Mine Road Improvements

UPPER UWCHLAN TWP — Upper Uwchlan Township has launched a mobility study targeting traffic, safety, and design improvements at the intersections of Pottstown Pike (Route 100) and Graphite Mine Road. The Eagle Village Gateways and Mobility Plan emphasizes enhanced traffic flow, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and community aesthetics. Residents are invited to participate in a public survey by July 2 and learn more during the June 14 township block party. Info and survey available online

Chester County Housing Market Report Released; Sets Record Median Price at $525,000

UPPER UWCHLAN TWP — Upper Uwchlan Township has launched a mobility study targeting traffic, safety, and design improvements at the intersections of Pottstown Pike (Route 100) and Graphite Mine Road. The Eagle Village Gateways and Mobility Plan emphasizes enhanced traffic flow, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and community aesthetics. Residents are invited to participate in a public survey by July 2 and learn more during the June 14 township block party. Info and survey available online

Chester County Card Show (West Chester) - June 1st, 9am-3pm

Upcoming local events…


Downingtown Farmers Market (Downingtown) - May 31st, 9am-1pm

Orienteering Class (West Chester) - May 31st, 10am-12pm

5th Annual Modena Duck Derby (Modena) - May 31st, 12pm-4pm

Chester County Card Show (West Chester) - June 1st, 9am-3pm

Eagleview Summer Concert Series (Eagleview) - June 3rd, 7pm-9pm

East Brandywine Summer Movies (East Brandywine) - June 6th

Downingtown Farmers Market (Downingtown) - June 7th, 9am-1pm

The Iron Bird Summer Artisan Market (Downingtown) - June 7th, 10am- 5pm

Touch a Truck (Eagleview) - June 7th, 10am-1pm

Eagleview Summer Concert Series (Eagleview) - June 10th, 7pm-9pm

Downingtown Farmers Market (Downingtown) - June 14th, 9am-1pm

Downingtown Summer Jam (Downingtown) - June 14th, 4pm-9pm

8th Annual Fathers’ Day Cars & Coffee (Malvern) - June 15th, 8am-11am

Bubble Day at Kidz Town at CFC (Downingtown) - June 24th, 9:30am-11am

House Cleaning


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