About this Project

This project added a 1.5-mile extension to the Pine Creek Rail Trail, a nationally recognized 65-mile recreational corridor spanning Tioga and Lycoming Counties. The new segment runs parallel to an active SEDA-COG rail line, passes through the Borough of Jersey Shore, and ends at the Susquehanna River. Funded by PennDOT, the project was managed through the ECMS system.

AEG provided preliminary engineering and final design services, including a Level 1A Categorical Exclusion Evaluation to assess environmental impacts and a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment to identify potential contamination in soils, groundwater, and structures. AEG conducted surveys for threatened and endangered species via the Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory (PNDI), performed wetland delineations, and analyzed pedestrian movement along the corridor.

Because the trail runs along a high railroad embankment, AEG evaluated slope stability and suggested conceptual mitigation strategies. Field topographic surveys, including 3D surveys where needed, were used to identify concerns and guide design decisions.

AEG prepared the erosion and sediment control plan, incorporating drainage and stormwater best management practices (BMPs), and supervised temporary channel construction. The team also conducted deed searches, mapped utilities and property boundaries, and obtained rights-of-way. Collaboration with the SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority was essential to avoid conflicts and secure design approval. AEG supported public engagement and helped the Borough of Jersey Shore with bid evaluation and procurement.