The residents of the surrounding communities have long recognized the Turtle Creek Greenway as a local treasure. Located in Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties in Southwestern Pennsylvania, the Turtle Creek Greenway encompasses approximately six (6) miles of the Turtle Creek stream valley, beginning at Duff Park in the Municipality of Murrysville, through Penn Township and the Municipality of Monroeville, ending in Trafford Borough. The project arose as a result of several planning efforts that had been completed in the region over the past several years and a growing concern that with continued development, the Greenway may be ruined for future generations. Partially funded through a planning grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the Regional Trail Corporation (RTC) led the effort with hopes of eventually being able to extend the Westmoreland Heritage Trail.
Overall project goals included to preserve the integrity of the Greenway; manage adverse impacts to the ecosystem because of stormwater; raise public awareness and encourage stewardship; offer additional recreational opportunities; develop a plan to secure land; utilize the greenway as an educational resource; and promote the greenway as a destination.
