Streets Department Announces Construction to Begin on the Fox Chase Lorimer Trail Project

Philadelphia – Streets Commissioner Carlton Williams announced today that the Notice to Proceed was issued to Road-Con, Inc. contractors for the Fox Chase Lorimer Trail Project. Construction activities will begin the week of Monday, June 12.

The project includes the construction of a shared-use walking and bicycling trail, ranging from 8-feet to 10-feet in width, along the former SEPTA Fox Chase Newtown Rail Line. The City and SEPTA partnered during the planning and design phases of the project on an easement agreement to allow the construction of the shared-use trail along the path of the former rail line. The approximate half-mile long trail will start at the Rhawn Street intersection and connect with the Pennypack Trail at the Philadelphia / Montgomery County Line, near Blake Avenue.

In addition to trail construction, the project includes traffic signal upgrades along Rhawn Street, near the Jeanes Street intersection and SEPTA's Fox Chase Station, as well as construction of ADA curb ramps and sidewalk bump-out.

During the week of June 12, the contractor will start working to construct the trail, starting at Rhawn Street and working toward the Montgomery County line. Trail work is expected to continue throughout this summer and into this fall.

Later this year, contractor will commence work on the traffic improvements along Rhawn Street. Traffic work will be staged to maintain traffic along the Rhawn Street and nearby intersections.

The contractor may require temporary lane and parking restrictions while completing this work. Temporary "No Parking" signs will be posted in advance of each scheduled activity. Motorists are advised to allow extra time when traveling around the work area.

Overall contract work is expected to be completed by Spring 2024. The construction contract is valued at approximately $1.85M, and is being funded using 100% Federal funds.

The Streets Department thanks residents and motorists in advance for their patience and cooperation during the construction phase of this project.