The Circuit Coalition Launches An Online Bike Trail Map for PA and NJ
Today, a coalition of more than a dozen regional organizations has launched a new website, www.connectthecircuit.org, which allows bicyclists and pedestrians to map out a safe route before embarking on a ride or walk.
As part of the collaboration, the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia partnered with the William Penn Foundation to build an online home for the many trails and trail projects in the region. The centerpiece of the site is built upon Google Maps functionality and is an interactive map of every trail in the region. The map shows users what’s built, what’s under construction, what needs funding, and even how to help and get involved.
Features include:
- Find the trail near you and plan a trip by car or bike to get there
- Discover new trails and amenities near those trails
- Share trips and trails with friends via Facebook and Twitter
- Learn about upcoming news, events, rides, trail openings, and public meetings
- Learn how you can help get missing sections of trails built
- The Crossing Paths Blog, a source for Circuit and trail-related information and press
“The goal of the coalition forming around this work is to coordinate and unify around a vision of a regional trail network – as opposed to a handful of separate trail systems,” said Nicholas Mirra, Communications Coordinator at the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia.
“This website will show the gaps in the trail system, and give visitors tools and resources for helping to make those un-built trails a reality.”
The name of the trail network, “The Circuit,” was chosen through a local contest that attracted 170 submissions, and was finalized by a judging committee facilitated by the William Penn Foundation.
“The Circuit will be one of the signature features of Greater Philadelphia — the nation’s finest trail network, providing non-motorized access from the Appalachian Trail to the Atlantic Ocean,” said Jeremy Nowak, President of the William Penn Foundation. “It will become one of the signature hallmarks that make Greater Philadelphia unique.”
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