City of Easton Highline Grant Press Conference with Lt. Gov. Austin Davis & PA DCNR

This City of Easton press conference held on January 29, 2026, focused on the announcement of a significant grant award from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to support the development of the Easton Highline project. The project involves acquiring 17.5 acres of land to create an elevated urban trail and park space, inspired by New York City's Highline, that will connect to existing trail networks and enhance recreational opportunities, economic development, and community connectivity in the Lehigh Valley region. The DCNR committed a $500,000 grant as part of an $82 million statewide investment in conservation and recreation projects. Local and state officials, including Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis and DCNR Secretary Cindy Dunn, emphasized the importance of this funding for revitalizing former industrial sites, supporting local businesses, and promoting outdoor recreation as a driver of economic growth and quality of life. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts among state agencies, local governments, and nonprofit partners like the Trust for Public Land to advance the project and other regional trail initiatives. No specific contract awards or vendor selections were detailed, but the grant funding and partnership commitments signal forthcoming procurement and development activities related to the Highline project.