Major Projects In Wissahickon Valley Park Set To Begin Mid-July

PHILADELPHIA — Construction on the Valley Green Run Restoration and Pedestrian Bridge Projects in Wissahickon Valley Park is set to begin next month.

Friends of the Wissahickon said work on the $2.5 million project will start in mid-July and be completed in two phases.

The first phase will reconstruct the Valley Green Run streambank and streambed to address years of worsening storm-induced erosion that led to the collapse of the footbridge in 2014.

The second phase will build a new pedestrian bridge to allow pedestrians to safely enter this popular area of the Wissahickon Valley Park.

A new observation platform along the 200-foot extended walkway will offer visitors expansive views of the park’s schist outcroppings and the historic Valley Green Bridge.

Once construction begins, Friends of the Wissahickon expects Valley Green Road to be closed for six months.

During the closure, park visitors will not have access to the park via this road.

Valley Green Inn will remain open during normal business hours.

Parking for the Inn will be available via Wises Mill Road off Henry Avenue in Roxborough.

Access to the Orange and White trails northbound from Valley Green Road will be closed for the duration of construction.

The next closest point of access will be from the Hartwell Lane trailhead.

Visitors already in the park will take the detour on Forbidden Drive from Valley Green Road to Rex Avenue.

Go online here for up-to-date information about the Valley Green Run Restoration and Pedestrian Bridge Project, including project updates, upcoming road closures, an interactive map, and multiple donor recognition opportunities.

The site also provides guidance on getting to the park via SEPTA and other local park areas to visit.

"Thank you for your patience and support during our long-awaited Valley Green Run Restoration and Pedestrian Bridge Project construction which will lessen our environmental impact and improve access to our beloved park," Ruffian Tittmann, FOW’s executive director, said. "I guarantee the result will be worth it!"