The Leaf Creek Trail – This was a concept plan from 2009. THERE IS NO CURRENT PLAN NOR FUNDING TO DEVELOP THIS TRAIL
What is the Leaf Creek Trail?
Amity Township investigated the feasibility of a trail that would run along Leaf Creek and connect to points of interest in the Township.
What is a trail?
Trails are paths built for non-motorized vehicles. A trail is a transportaion and recreation corridor, designed to accommodate various users such as pedestrians, bicyclists, skating/rollerblading and equestrians. A trail is usually separated from public roads and streets but in some cases can be incorporated into a roadway (also known as a “shared use”).
Who uses trails?
It usually depends on what the trail connects. In the case of the Leaf Creek Trail, the users will likely be the local community for exercise, commuting and recreation. Part of the feasibility study will determine the needs of the community so that the final trail will accomodate the anticipated user and connect to points of interest.
Are there other trails in Berks County?
Yes, the Thun Trail is in the southern part of the Township along the Schuylkill River. One of the goals for the Leaf Creek Trail is connect with the Thun Trail.
When will know if the trail is feasible?
The study will take about 12 months to complete and the final report will recommend the most feasible alignment.
Will the public have input in the study process?
Yes, the study will include two public meetings or plan displays to gather input from the public.
If the trail is feasible who would own it and be responsible for development?
The Township is the lead agency or sponsor of the project and would obtain funding, bid for construction and maintain the facility.
Who pays for the trail development?
The Township will work with the County (MPO-transportation planners) and state agencies to assist them in obtaining grant funding for all phases of the trail development.
Will the trail be built on private property?
The Township will acquire rights from private property owners to use a strip of land for the trail. This is usually done through a deed of easement (like that used for a sewer line) but could be purchased in fee simple or through a long term lease.
How much land is required to build a trail?
The trail width will be 10 feet with 2 foot shoulders, so on a flat piece of land, a 20 foot wide easement would be adequate.
What is the consensus of property owners along the creek?
Preliminary contact with property owners has been positive. Much of the trail alignment will likely be in areas zoned as industrial and commercial.
Are private property owners liable if trail users get injured on the trail?
Generally speaking underlying or adjacent property owners are not liable. The state has protected land owners and trail operators under the Recreation Use of Land and Water Act (RULWA). In summary, private property owners are only liable for the safety of trail users entering property if they were invited onto the property (outside the easement owned by the Township).
Do trails increase crime?
Numerous studies conducted across the country have indicated that trail development does not increase crime.
It usually depends on what the trail connects. In the case of the Leaf Creek Trail, the users will likely be the local community for exercise, commuting and recreation. Part of the feasibility study will determine the needs of the community so that the final trail will accomodate the anticipated user and connect to points of interest.
Are there other trails in Berks County?
Yes, the Thun Trail is in the southern part of the Township along the Schuylkill River. One of the goals for the Leaf Creek Trail is connect with the Thun Trail.
When will know if the trail is feasible?
The study will take about 12 months to complete and the final report will recommend the most feasible alignment.
Will the public have input in the study process?
Yes, the study will include two public meetings or plan displays to gather input from the public.
If the trail is feasible who would own it and be responsible for development?
The Township is the lead agency or sponsor of the project and would obtain funding, bid for construction and maintain the facility.
Who pays for the trail development?
The Township will work with the County (MPO-transportation planners) and state agencies to assist them in obtaining grant funding for all phases of the trail development.
Will the trail be built on private property?
The Township will acquire rights from private property owners to use a strip of land for the trail. This is usually done through a deed of easement (like that used for a sewer line) but could be purchased in fee simple or through a long term lease.
How much land is required to build a trail?
The trail width will be 10 feet with 2 foot shoulders, so on a flat piece of land, a 20 foot wide easement would be adequate.
What is the consensus of property owners along the creek?
Preliminary contact with property owners has been positive. Much of the trail alignment will likely be in areas zoned as industrial and commercial.
Are private property owners liable if trail users get injured on the trail?
Generally speaking underlying or adjacent property owners are not liable. The state has protected land owners and trail operators under the Recreation Use of Land and Water Act (RULWA). In summary, private property owners are only liable for the safety of trail users entering property if they were invited onto the property (outside the easement owned by the Township).
Do trails increase crime?
Numerous studies conducted across the country have indicated that trail development does not increase crime.
