News & Events

Bridging the Gap at Kiski Junction

Project Snapshot

Location: Allegheny Township, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania

Purpose: Construct a grade-separated pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the active Norfolk Southern Railway.

Benefits:

• Improved public safety
• ADA-accessible trail connection
• Expanded tourism
• Economic development
• Regional trail connectivity

Status: Final design, permitting, fundraising, and construction planning are underway.

Connecting Communities. Improving Safety. Completing a Regional Trail Network.

Bridging the Gap at Kiski Junction Flyover is more than a local infrastructure project; it is a critical investment in Western Pennsylvania’s growing trail network and the future of long-distance bicycle/trail tourism.

Completion of the flyover will establish a continuous, safe trail connection from Brookville to Butler, creating one of the longest uninterrupted off-road trail experiences in the US. This achievement will connect dozens of communities across Armstrong, Clarion, Jefferson, Butler, Indiana, and Westmoreland Counties, providing residents and visitors with expanded opportunities for recreation, active transportation, and outdoor adventure.

Beyond the immediate region, the project serves an even greater purpose. The Kiski Junction connection is a key component of the emerging Erie to Pittsburgh Trail, an ambitious initiative that will eventually link Lake Erie to the City of Pittsburgh through a network of connected rail trails and shared-use paths.

As additional trail gaps are closed throughout western Pennsylvania, the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail, PA Wilds Trail, and the Pittsburgh to Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway will become premier long-distance destinations, attracting cyclists, hikers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the country. Similar trail systems have demonstrated the power of connected networks to generate millions of dollars in annual visitor spending while supporting local restaurants, lodging establishments, outfitters, retailers, and other small businesses.

The Kiski Junction Flyover (designated a PA Top Ten Trail Gap) represents one of the most significant remaining investments needed to advance this vision. By eliminating a major barrier within Armstrong Trails and Tredway Trail, the project strengthens regional connectivity, enhances safety, and moves the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail one step closer to becoming a reality.

Together with local, state, and regional partners, Armstrong Trails is helping build a transportation and recreation corridor that extends far beyond county lines. The completion of the Brookville to Butler Route connection and continued progress toward the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail will create lasting economic, recreational, and quality-of-life benefits for communities throughout Western Pennsylvania for generations to come.

Building Through Partnership

Projects of this scale are only possible through collaboration.

Armstrong Trails is working alongside Norfolk Southern Railway, state and federal agencies, local governments, engineering professionals, foundations, businesses, and generous community supporters to make this transformational project a reality.

Every grant awarded, every partnership formed, and every donation received brings us one step closer to completing this long-awaited connection.

Project Benefits

✔ Eliminates a hazardous at-grade railroad crossing

✔ Creates a seamless trail experience across three counties

✔ Connects Armstrong Trails and the Tredway Trail

✔ Improves accessibility for walkers, cyclists, runners, and families

✔ Expands outdoor recreation opportunities

✔ Encourages bicycle tourism and overnight visitation

✔ Supports local restaurants, lodging, retail, and outfitters

✔ Preserves historic railroad heritage while creating new opportunities for recreation