You didn't know there was a boardwalk in the "City of Brotherly Love"? As of October 2014, there is! Philadelphia proudly celebrated the ribbon cutting on this major addition to the waterfront scene and welcomed walkers, hikers, bikers, runners and anyone else looking to see Philadelphia from the newest vantage point, right on the water itself.
Philadelphia's boardwalk has been in the planning and building stages for quite a few years. Work was finally completed on the walkway in time to welcome in the bright colors of fall.
Step out and grab a breath of fresh air on Philadelphia's new boardwalk — Photo courtesy of greenfrog119
Visitors can now stroll the length of the walking path (which is constructed to look like real wood, while still being able to stand up to the worst elements Philadelphia waters can throw at it) and enjoy wonderful views of the city skyline.
The trail runs along the water, and it's 50 feet from the eastern shore of the Schuylkill River at its furthest point. The boardwalk's 2000 feet in length and 15 feet wide, divided into two lanes for traffic going either way to easily pass one another.
Solar-powered lighting allows the walkway to be used in the evening safely and conveniently.
Who can use the boardwalk? Anyone interested in seeing the city from right on the river. Commuters, sightseers and even those riding, walking or running the Schuylkill River Trail will appreciate the extension that this boardwalk provides, allowing people to easily get from Locust Street (where the trail previously ended) to the South Street Bridge.
Future plans include extending the trail even further, to eventually end in Fort Mifflin in South Philadelphia.
Smooth and flat, the walkway is a lovely and scenic way to get to your downtown destination — Photo courtesy of greenfrog119
In addition to the walkway, there are four overlooks where people can stop to take photographs, fish, enjoy the view, meet friends, eat lunch or just generally enjoy themselves. The recreational opportunities are wonderful for all who may want to come and use the boardwalk.
Organized and funded by the Schuylkill River Development Corporation and through grants requested from organizations such as the Philadelphia Bicycle Coalition, this project reportedly came at a price tag of roughly $18 million. It's estimated to deliver so much more than that amount back to the city in the form of years of use and enjoyment by both visitors and local city dwellers alike.
The new boardwalk is an incredible addition to the city of Philadelphia, and it promises to add years of enjoyment to the city scene. It's already an attractive and functional means of travel, as well as a pretty pleasant walk along the water.
Head out and see for yourself.
