Turks Head Trail
BACKGROUND
railroad
For decades, the West Chester Branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad provided commuter rail service along a 26-mile line from Philadelphia to West Chester. Ownership of the branch passed to Conrail in 1976 and then to SEPTA in 1979. In 1986, SEPTA terminated service beyond the Elwyn Station due to low ridership and deteriorating track conditions. In 2022, SEPTA restored rail service west of Elwyn to a new station in Wawa. Commuter rail service to West Chester was never restored.
Today, the West Chester Railroad operates a scenic excursion train on weekends between West Chester and Glen Mills.
Add link to WC RR
Trail Idea
During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant increase in outdoor related activities. Many people looked to nature for solace, fitness and safer socialization.
Nick Rickards and his children enjoyed exploring the wooded areas by their home near Bayard Rustin High School. He realized that the SEPTA corridor is a hidden gem. A beautiful area of green space wide enough to accommodate the tourist train and a rec trail. The idea for the Turks Head Trail, which he named after the original name of West Chester, was born.
benefits
Trails provide many benefits to enhance our quality of life!
*Trails can improve physical and mental health through a connection to nature, stress reduction, and exercise.
*Trails can spark appreciation for nature, conservation and history. They help us understand our place in the world.
*Trails create accessible public spaces that can foster connection between people and foster a sense of community.
*Trails provide safe alternative routes for walking and biking, reducing reliance on cars, lowering fuel costs, and minimizing air pollution.
*Trails offer free or low- cost recreation for all residents.
*Trails can enhance the vitality of local businesses and even increase property values in surrounding areas.
Fundraising
After fighting all the hoes, we need to raise money to get the trail built