Frequently Asked Questions

What is a "Pennsylvania Greenway?"
Pennsylvania's statewide Greenways Program defines the word "greenway" very broadly, and includes many kinds of linear corridors across the landscape. Although some greenways are trails (on land or water), others such as riparian buffer corridors are intended for environmental protection and are not designed for human use.

Greenways differ in their location and function, but overall, a greenway will protect natural, cultural, and scenic resources, provide recreational benefits, enhance natural beauty and quality of life in neighborhoods and communities, and stimulate economic development opportunities.

What are the benefits of greenways?
Greenways contribute significantly to our quality of life, and are increasingly seen as a focal point for community design and land use strategies.

What is the Pennsylvania Greenways Program?
The Pennsylvania Greenways Program is a growing partnership of government and private organizations that are working together to establish a greenways network. In 2001, former Governor Tom Ridge approved Pennsylvania Greenways: An Action Plan for Creating Connections and launched the new program with an Executive Order that identifies the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources as the lead agency. The Plan lays out a broad pallet of activities for the Program under 12 strategies, all of which are intended to provide assistance and support to local and regional partners who are involved with establishing and managing greenways. The new Greenways Program proposes 20-year targets for a statewide greenways network - a network of people and places.

Why does Pennsylvania need the Pennsylvania Greenways Program?
Opportunities for greenways abound and are most often discovered and pursued by local citizens and local government. Establishing greenways requires a lot of coordination and cooperation, especially when corridors cross jurisdictional boundaries.