New Bridge, Boardwalk Planned For Trail Near Major Road In South Jersey

DELANCO, NJ — A new boardwalk path and independent bridge are in the works for Route 130.

The stretch of trail would be extended across Route 130 and the Rancocas Creek from Pennington Park to separate links with Willingboro Lakes Park and Rainbow Meadow Park.

A boardwalk-style shared path along the Route 130 south embankment and underneath the highway will connect to a new independent pedestrian and bicycle bridge across the Rancocas Creek.

The trail would have both on, and off-road components before connecting to interior trails within Rainbow Meadow Park.

County officials said all aspects of the project will be fully accessible while serving to improve safety along one of New Jersey's most dangerous roads.

The review of potential routes came after an evaluation of alternative crossing areas utilizing different infrastructure, with new overpasses.

Safety, environmental impacts, construction costs, and community feedback were all considered.

Route 130 was named the "most dangerous road for pedestrians" in the entire state by the Tri-State Transportation Campaign on numerous occasions due to the number of deaths along the route.

Between 2019 and 2024, there were 65 accidents and 10 deaths, according to New Jersey Department of Transportation records.

"Infrastructure enhancements, like the one Burlington County is planning, will absolutely save lives and improve mobility through the Route 130 corridor," added State Senator Troy Singleton (D-07).

The project is anticipated to cost around $30 million and be funded entirely by federal transportation aid, County officials said.

The future plan for the trail includes running a path along the entire 30-mile length of the Rancocas Creek from the Delaware River to Pemberton Township.

There is also an ongoing review of possible trail routes from the Birmingham area of Pemberton Township to connect with Historic Smithville Park across Route 206.

The public can voice their feedback on the planned "Rancocas Creek Greenway Route 130/Rancocas Creek Crossing" on Wednesday during a virtual meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. with planners and engineers.

Listeners can also dial in to the meeting by calling (877) 284-0719 and entering Conference ID 657 690 620#.

The new trail would be part of the Circuit Trails network throughout Pennsylvania and South Jersey.

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