In 2005, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) received initial federal funding to conduct a study of the recreational potential for the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal (C&D Canal).  A project team was created to manage the study and develop an appropriate vision for a multi-use trail system along the C&D Canal, enhancing the recreational opportunities for the local and the regional community.  As the area is experiencing rapid development, places for quality recreational experiences, especially as varied and wide-ranging as those offered at the Canal, are in high demand. 

After holding public workshops last year with area residents in Delaware and Maryland to better understand their preferences, the project team — Congressman Mike Castle; the Army Corps of Engineers; Congressman Wayne Gilchrest (MD-01); the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control; the Maryland Department of Natural Resources; the Delaware Department of Transportation; New Castle County, DE; Cecil County, MD; Delaware City, DE; Chesapeake City, MD; St. Georges, DE; Delaware Greenways; and the Delaware Bicycle Council — completed "The Chesapeake and Delaware Canal Trail Concept Plan."  A year in the making, the recently completed Trail Concept Plan provides a practical road map for making enhancements to the area along the C&D Canal, which will provide a continuous trail from Delaware City and Chesapeake City, and a link to other greenways, trails, and historic sites in the region.   

The Trail Concept Plan outlines a multi-purpose trail accommodating a mix of bicycling, walking, and horseback riding (among other activities) with trail markers, restroom facilities, improved fishing piers, controlled access points, and parking areas.  The plan includes a total of 29.2 miles of multi-use trail on both sides of the Canal along the first tier of the Corps service road.  All of these enhancements will compliment existing activities, like fishing, dog training, hunting, and horseback riding, as well as the preservation of the Canal's wetlands, wildlife, and natural infrastructure.

As communities continue to grow and develop throughout Delaware, Maryland, and the Mid-Atlantic, this recreation project is becoming increasingly important to all residents who value open spaces and who would like access to more recreational areas.  While this is a long-term project, we are pleased to announce the completion of the Trail Concept Plan and our commitment to the future development of the trail.                  

To view an electronic copy of "The Chesapeake and Delaware Canal Trail Concept Plan," please click on the link below.