Schuylkill Banks Trail and Greenway

In 2015, Schuylkill Banks was designated as a Great Place in the Greenways and Trails category. Schuylkill Banks is an easily accessible 2-mile trail/greenway along the Schuylkill River in the heart of Philadelphia. The trail/greenway is also part of the larger Schuylkill River Trail. Schuylkill Banks has transformed a formerly industrial site into an amenity that attracts an average of 28,000 user trips/week. It is a vital commuter corridor, recreational amenity, and green oasis in a dense urban environment. Among the many amenities are large shade trees, native vegetation, benches, water fountain, composting restroom, lighting, public art, a public dock, interpretive signage, seasonal programming, and a visitor center. 

Schuylkill Banks is also working to address stormwater runoff. In 2015, Schuylkill Banks developed a Greenway Stormwater Management Plan to identify solutions to address stormwater issues. Schuylkill Banks has installed rain gardens in areas along the trail that are prone to erosion.

In November 2021, Schuylkill Banks opened a new section of trail from the 56^th Street Plaza to 61^st

Street. As part of the construction of this new section, Schuylkill Banks constructed stormwater infiltration basins, planted trees and restored approximately 1.6 acres of degraded industrial land to a naturalized meadow condition.

To learn more about the Schuylkill Banks, visit schuylkillbanks.org/