Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions
Why must the connector bridge be built? The settlement agreement between CSX and the City of Philadelphia calls for the two grade crossings to be “improved” (with automatic gates that close the crossings when trains approach or are parked) within 24 months (April 2009) and that an above grade crossing be built within 30 months (October 2009). CSX only agreed to allow the Locust Street crossing to be improved and made a legal grade crossing as long as an overpass was also constructed by the City. CSX wants an additional above grade crossing to give park users an alternative entrance and exit if by chance the Locust street level crossing is closed. CSX understood that the Walnut Street bridge stairs and the future South Street ramp would be available, but stood firm on its demand for an additional above grade crossing. The settlement agreement is under the jurisdiction of Federal Judge Bruce Kaufman and if the above grade crossing is not constructed, it is likely that CSX will go back to court. For more answers about other connection options, see our website’s Connector Bridge page.
Why is the Locust Street crossing only partially paved? The path of the current crossing at Locust Street is on CSX’s property. The City’s right-of-way of Locust Street actually traverses the tracks a little to the south of the current crossing (to the other opening in the fence). For the paving to be completed, CSX and the City are currently defining their responsibilities. We are trying to bring about some kind of arrangement to make the rest of the paving possible.
When will the JFK Bridge work be completed? The current construction schedule calls for the work to be completed and the bridge reopened in February 2009.
Will the park north of Race Street be landscaped? Schuylkill River Development Corporation (SRDC) reported to Schuylkill River Park Alliance that some delays were encountered in the acquisition of permits and approvals for this project, which we wrote about in Issue 2 of Reaching the Hidden River. These problems have been resolved and completed plans should be ready for the bidding process soon. Construction is scheduled for Summer 2008.
How many people use the park? Based on data collected for SRDC, the trail has 2,500 user trips a day (averaged out over year). Runners, bicyclists and walkers use the trail in roughly the same amounts, although the runners slightly outnumber bicyclists and walkers.
To prevent congestion, will the trail have more directional striping? Yes, Fairmount Park is planning to paint additional stripes on the path to help keep people moving to the right so to avoid collisions. This will most likely occur in spring of 2008.
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