Bucknell Greenway expands access, links campus and community trails

The Bucknell Greenway is advancing in segments across Lewisburg, creating a growing network of paths that link Bucknell University, neighborhood streets, parks and existing trails. When complete the Greenway is planned to run roughly four miles and connect directly to the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail and Hufnagle Park. Portions of the route are already in use for campus and community events and for everyday recreation.

For Union County residents the Greenway represents more than new pavement. Expanding safe routes for walking and cycling supports physical activity across age groups, reduces reliance on motor vehicles, and can ease pressure on local health systems by lowering risks associated with physical inactivity and traffic injuries. The corridor also provides mental health benefits through access to outdoor green space and opportunities for social interaction between students, older adults, families and workers.

Work proceeding in segments allows early community use while longer term connections are built, but it also creates planning needs. Consistent maintenance, clear crossings where the route meets busy streets, winter upkeep and accessible design for people with mobility limitations are all critical to making the Greenway a reliable public health asset. Planning that centers equity will be especially important so lower income residents, people of color and those without cars can benefit equally from improved active transportation options.

The Greenway also has local economic and civic implications. Easier pedestrian access between campus and downtown helps small businesses, supports event attendance and enhances safety at night when lighting and sight lines are addressed. Coordination among the university, borough officials and Union County planners will determine whether the Greenway serves as an inclusive community spine or primarily a campus amenity.

As the project continues, residents and policymakers will face decisions about funding for completion and long term maintenance, accessibility upgrades and complementary services such as bike share and wayfinding. Prioritizing health equity and safe, year round use can help ensure the Greenway delivers durable benefits for Union County communities.