The Pennsylvania Turnpike is now connecting communities and people in a whole new way at the Sideling Hill Service Plaza Trailhead. PA Turnpike and community leaders gathered to formally open the trailhead at a community day at the Sideling Hill Service Plaza.
The trailhead offers outdoor enthusiasts, especially cyclists, easy access to a vast
network of trails and historic sites, and service plaza patrons with access to green areas and scenic views.
“This first-of-its-kind project shows that the Pennsylvania Turnpike is more than just a road – it’s a journey through some of the most beautiful parts of our Commonwealth,” said PA Turnpike CEO Mark Compton. “By creating access to a vast network of trails and offering thoughtful amenities, we’re positioning the Pennsylvania Turnpike as a key partner in driving economic growth through sustainable outdoor recreation.”
During the community day, the PA Turnpike hosted family-friendly activities and give-a-ways, as well as booths featuring local vendors and nonprofit organizations. The Keystone Trails Association also sponsored a guided hike in the Buchanan State Forest following the event.
Promoted as “Your Gateway to the Alleghenies,” the trailhead will serve both PA Turnpike and community users from just beyond the service plaza’s restricted gates. The trailhead has access to the service plaza and its numerous amenities, as well as a covered pavilion with seating areas, bike rack and added green space allowing travelers to relax away from the Service Plaza’s hustle and bustle. The trailhead also includes a 12- foot by 25-foot tree-shaped bike washing station that was designed, fabricated and painted by students from
Forbes Road and Southern Fulton High Schools.
“Whether you’re biking, hiking or just taking a break, we envision the Sideling Hill Trailhead becoming a top destination for outdoor lovers,” said Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Secretary and PA Turnpike Commission Chair Mike Carroll. “As we’re about to celebrate our 85th anniversary, this project not only honors the rich history of the PA Turnpike but also looks forward to a future where nature and tourism work hand in hand.”
When the trailhead’s covered pavilions needed picnic tables, the PA Turnpike connected with the Yellow Breeches Educational Center, a central Pennsylvania elementary and secondary special education school focused on experiential learning. Approximately 20 students who’d expressed interest in the construction trades built four tables – three typical tables and one meeting ADA requirements – while making a lasting contribution to the site. Students from the school will be adding more picnic tables in the near future.
“Our goal is to challenge and support our special needs students to become positive leaders in their school, home, and communities,” said Yellow Breeches Program Director Jen Tynan-Tyrrell. “We are grateful to the PA Turnpike for allowing our students the opportunity to leave an indelible mark at the new Sideling Hill Trailhead.”
