This spring heralded the start of construction of the long-awaited bridge and walking trails project at St. Paul's.
The project includes a new pedestrian bridge over Williamson Road and paved walking trails that will connect all four neighborhoods on St. Paul’s 600+ acres campus: The Villas, The Heritage, The Ridgewood, and The Colony.
Designed with accessibility and wellness in mind, the bridge and trails will accommodate wheelchairs, motorized scooters, walkers, runners, bicycles, and golf carts.
Users will also have the option to connect to the scenic nature trail winding through the woods and old apple orchard on the north side of campus.
This transformational project would not have been possible without the generosity of nearly 200 donors who supported the "Bridging the Gap" capital campaign, helping raise a total of $1.1 million.
"Even though the campaign has concluded, additional gifts are still welcome,” said Dawn Hartman, Director of Charitable Giving. “The total cost of the project will exceed the funds raised, and every contribution helps move us closer to completion.”
There are still naming opportunities available, including a rest area adjacent to the bridge for a $150,000 gift and three walking trails for $75,000 each. Donors who contribute $3,000 or more will also be recognized on a campaign plaque. For more information about donating to the project, please contact Dawn at (724) 589-4611 or dhartman@sp1867.org.
Construction officially began on April 1, 2026 with Horizon Construction Group, Inc. of Sandy Lake, Pa., leading the project. Since then, heavy equipment and materials arrived on site, temporary fencing was erected around the work area, and tree removal was completed to make way for the bridge and trails. Work was also completed on drainage and erosion control throughout the project area.
In May, crews brought in fill material for the bridge site and trails, and in June they started construction on the bridge support walls. Construction is expected to wrap up in late 2026.
Thank you to everyone whose generosity helped make this project possible to improve safety, accessibility, and outdoor recreational opportunities on St. Paul's campus.
