Delaware County Return on Environment Study
Date Published: April 2022
- Delaware County Return on Environment – Report [PDF File, 7.2 mb]
- Executive Summary [PDF File, 3.2 mb]
Have you ever wondered about the economic value of green space in Delaware County? What’s the economic benefit of investing in preservation over development? Does access to green space and trails increase my property value, and if so, by how much? Do green spaces and trail access drive economic activity and tourism to Delco? And what’s the economic benefit to public health?
With many competing needs and limited resources, justifying public spending has never been more rigorous. Research tells us that investing in green spaces, trails, and recreation improves all aspects of community wellness and provides excellent economic returns, but we also know that the impact on Boulder Colorado is certainly going to be different from the impact on Ridley Park, Pennsylvania.
To better understand how these investments specifically impact Delco, the County developed a study with the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission and their consultants at Econsult Solutions Inc. to get the full story as it applies specifically to Delaware County. The project was inspired by a 2011 study developed for the greater Philadelphia five-county region. It was funded in part through a grant from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The final report, titled "Return on Environment: The Economic Impact of Protected Open Space in Delaware County, Pennsylvania" was completed in April, 2022, and includes an outline of the history of green space in Delaware County, the County’s vision for the future, and six case studies demonstrating the economic value of green space in the County’s diverse communities.
The economic analysis shown in this study is critical to understanding the true value and impact of the policies and initiatives that support open space preservation. The report estimates the economic value of protected open space in Delaware County by measuring impacts across four areas:
1. Economic Activity Impact
It is estimated that open space-related activities generate an estimated total of $52 million in annual economic impact.
2. Environmental Services Benefits
$6.2 million is avoided annually Countywide for stormwater system maintenances.
3. Direct Use Benefits (Recreation and Health)
There is $142.6 million in annual recreation benefits to residents, & $153.4M medical costs avoided annually Countywide
4. Home and Property Value Impact
There is an accumulated $689 million added Countywide to the value of housing stock located within a ½ mile from protected open space.
The six case studies in the Report examine and explore the value that users and residents in places all around the County benefit from public green space. The case studies are:
1. The Property formerly known as Don Guanella in Marple Township, owned by Delaware County (Environmental Services Impact)
2. The County’s Chester Creek Trail in Middletown and Aston Townships (Direct Use Impact)
3. Rose Tree County Park in Upper Providence Township – focusing on the Summer Festival Concert Series (Economic Activity Impact)
4. Haverford Township’s Andy Lewis Community Park (formerly known as the Haverford Reserve) (Environmental Services Impact)
5. Upper Darby Township’s Naylors Run Park (Direct Use Impact)
6. The City of Chester’s Veterans Memorial Park (Direct Use Impact)
The report concludes with a Strategic Action Plan with the next critical steps for advancing the concept that funding for green space, parks, recreation, and trails in Delaware County is an investment - not a cost. The benefits presented in this report provide information to elected leaders, policy makers, and the general public on the value of protected open space and can contribute to informed decisions concerning both preservation and development in the County.
Questions about the Delaware County Return on Environment Study? Contact the Planning Department at 610-891-5200 or Planning_Department@co.delaware.pa.us.
DELCO TRAILS PLANNING
A well-connected and safe trail network is one of the top items people look for when choosing a place to live. Trails provide recreational prospects that diversifies economic opportunity, community health, and personal wellbeing. Access to trails provides a vital outlet for people seeking a safe activity. Beyond the positive wellness impact, trails make an important environmental and economic impact by taking pressure off road systems and encouraging tourism between urban and suburban communities.
DELAWARE COUNTY PRIMARY TRAIL NETWORK
Delaware County Council and the Delaware County Planning Department are proud to announce the launch of The Delaware County Primary Trail Network (PTN) Information Hub, a dynamic online resource that showcases the County’s growing trail system.
The PTN Information Hub is designed as a one-stop resource for both residents and communities. For residents, it offers easy access to interactive maps, trail status updates, and project details so they can enjoy and explore the network today. For municipalities, planners, and advocates, the Hub provides tools and resources to better understand the County’s trail vision, track progress on new projects, and plan for future connections.
Building on a Vision
The PTN reflects Delaware County’s commitment to providing residents with safe, accessible, and enjoyable non-motorized travel and recreation options. These trails are intended as wide, hard-surface, ADA-compliant paths that connect people to parks, neighborhoods, downtowns, and natural resources. Together, they form the “spokes” of a countywide network that also links with The Circuit Trails, a regional effort to create more than 750 miles of multi-use trails across Greater Philadelphia.
The idea for the PTN Information Hub came directly from Planning Department Director Gina Burritt, who recognized the need to make the County’s trail vision easier for the public to access and understand. The Hub was developed by the County’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) team, led by Julie DelMuto, building on years of planning work and with support from regional partners including the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) and the William Penn Foundation.
“This project is the result of true collaboration,” said Gina Burritt, Director of the Delaware County Planning Department. “I am incredibly proud of our team—especially Julie DelMuto and our GIS staff—for bringing this vision to life. The PTN Information Hub makes it easy for everyone to see where we’ve been, where we are today, and where we’re headed in expanding trails across Delco. It also reflects the commitment of our partners in DVRPC, the William Penn Foundation, and The Circuit Trails Coalition, who continue to champion a more connected, healthier region.”
Why Trails Matter
Trails are more than amenities—they are proven drivers of economic activity, public health, and environmental sustainability. Delaware County’s “Return on Environment” study, completed in partnership with DVRPC, found that open space, including trails, generates $52 million in annual economic impact and supports 590 local jobs. Trails also deliver $142.6 million in recreation benefits annually to residents, help avoid more than $153 million in medical costs through healthier lifestyles, and add nearly $689 million in value to nearby homes.
Environmental benefits are equally significant: protected open space reduces pollution, mitigates flooding, stores carbon, and avoids more than $120 million in stormwater management costs. Trails knit these spaces together, connecting communities and providing access to recreation and nature close to home.
“Delaware County residents value our open spaces and trails because they represent some of the very best uses of County resources,” said Delaware County Councilmember Elaine Paul Schaefer. “The PTN Information Hub demonstrates how we are investing in a healthier, more connected future. Trails improve quality of life by encouraging exercise, reducing medical costs, and providing access to nature for all. They also strengthen our local economy and help us preserve the natural beauty of Delco. Most importantly, this work is about building a better future for generations to come.”
A Partner's Perspective
Local partners have also praised the County’s leadership in advancing trail planning and development.
"Delaware County's Primary Trail Network Information Hub is more than just a map—it’s a tool that helps residents enjoy what’s open today while giving planners the information they need to shape tomorrow," said Ariella Maron, Executive Director of the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission. "With this tool, local leaders and residents can collaborate on projects that support the region's vision for region's vision for a safe, modern, multimodal transportation system. And, by making trail progress visible and accessible, Delaware County is showing how smart planning and public engagement can go hand in hand to create healthier, more connected communities across the region."
"Throughout the nine counties that make up the Greater Philadelphia region, there are 418 miles of existing Circuit Trails," said Patrick Monahan, Regional Organizer with the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and Pennsylvania Co-Chair of the Circuit Trails Coalition. "The full vision includes more than 800 miles of interconnected trails that allow all users to reach their destinations safely. Delaware County’s new Information Hub will help advance that vision by inspiring more communities to complete their segments and strengthen trail connectivity throughout the County."
A Growing Network
Currently, the Primary Trail Network includes 135 miles of identified corridors, with more than 45 miles already open to the public. Another 12 miles are in active design, 40 miles are in feasibility studies, and nearly 40 additional miles are planned conceptually. Each trail has its own dedicated “StoryMap” with detailed project information, and the Hub allows users to track progress in real time.
The PTN also connects to some of the most iconic regional trails, including the East Coast Greenway, the Radnor Trail, the Chester Creek Trail, and the Darby Creek Trail. Many segments are already part of The Circuit, linking Delaware County residents with hundreds of miles of bicycle and pedestrian routes across southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey.
Accessing the PTN Information Hub
Delaware County’s Primary Trail Network Information Hub is now live and available to the public. Residents, municipal officials, trail advocates, and visitors are encouraged to explore the interactive map, review planning documents, and learn more about upcoming projects.
“Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a weekend walker, or simply curious about what’s happening in your neighborhood, the Hub is designed for you,” Burritt added. “It’s a tool that empowers our residents and helps ensure the trails we build reflect community priorities.”
DELCO TRAILS ALLIANCE
To effectively meet the County’s needs for connections, trail advocacy, and trail maintenance; County Council established the Delaware County Trails Alliance. The Alliance gathers representatives from various existing trail groups to coordinate, communicate, and serve trail access within Delaware County. The Alliance meets quarterly in open online meetings to share information and gain knowledge about best practices in trail planning, development, and management, and current projects in the trail network. The Alliance is also a sponsor of the Western Suburbs Trail Summit held annually in February. While Planning Department staff supports the Alliance, leaders are a volunteer chair and vice-chair.
Current leadership:
- Chair - Bill Kaplan
- Vice-Chair - James Bergman
To be added to the Trails Alliance mailing list and receive meeting notices, please contact the Planning Department at planning_department@co.delaware.pa.us.
DELCO TRAILS ALLIANCE
Trails are all the rage. A well-connected and safe trail network is one of the top items people look for when choosing a place to live. Trails provide recreational prospects that diversifies economic opportunity, community health, and personal wellbeing. Access to trails provides a vital outlet for people seeking a safe activity during the pandemic. Beyond the positive wellness impact, trails make an important environmental and economic impact by taking pressure off road systems and encouraging tourism between urban and suburban communities.
To effectively meet the County’s needs for connections, trail advocacy, and trail maintenance; County Council is establishing the Delco Trails Alliance. The Alliance will gather representatives from various existing trail groups to better coordinate, communicate, and serve trail access within Delaware County. The group will work collaboratively with municipalities, adjoining Counties, and the regional Circuit Traiks while promoting the Countywide Primary Trail Network.
For more on the Delco Countywide Primary Trail Network, go to Chapter 3 of the Countywide Greenway Plan, and to learn about the many aspects and benefits of trails as a recreation facility go to Chapter 4 of the County Open Space and Recreation Plan.
More to come –– check back soon!
DELCO GREEN SPACE TASK FORCE
DESCRIPTION AND PURPOSE
The Green Space Task Force (GSTF) is charged with guiding the Delaware County’s vision and policy direction for green space. Its members have leadership experience, and knowledge of the natural world and civic affairs, and are motivated by preserving open space, natural lands, and access to quality public parks and recreation. Their experiences come from government, business, nonprofit, and advocacy.
The following is an outline of the tasks that County Council has already given the GSTF, starting from its inception in 2021:
- Reviewed the Delaware County Transition Working Group – Natural Resources, Parks, and Open Space Subcommittee Report to advise Council on open space priorities.
- Served as the Advisory Committee for the Delaware County “Return on Environment– Economic Value of Open Space” report developed for Delaware County by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission.project.
- Helped the County develop the Program Guidelines for the Delco Green Ways municipal open space and recreation grant program.
GSTF members may be tasked with a variety of things in the coming years, such as promoting the Delco Green Ways Program, assessing specific types of conservation techniques, and assisting County Council develop a more permanent means to finance open space preservation and maintenance in Delaware County.
The time commitment for serving is three years. The Green Space Task Force currently meets monthly, except in April and August, on the second Wednesday of each month, from 4:30 to 6:00 pm.
CURRENT MEMBERS OF THE GREEN SPACE TASK FORCE
The current members of the Green Space Task Force are forward thinking, action-oriented, outdoor-loving residents who volunteered to serve. Appointments were made in areas of green space preservation, natural lands conservation, parks and recreation management, fundraising, economics, business, real estate, law, health, communications, and community organizing.
These Task force members represent the fabric of our communities and the wide range of constituencies that we serve.
- Alison Dobbins, Chair
- Peter Rykard, Vice Chair
- Andrew Bunting
- Mario Cimino
- John Crossan
- Phil Damon
- Ann Hutchinson
- Douglas Interrante
- Robert Jordan
- William Lighter, Jr
- Lenise Lockley.
- Pauline Wandeto
- Joi Washington
County Council Liaison
Delaware County has established the Greenway Grant Program to promote conservation, recreation, and the enhancement of green spaces throughout the county. This program is designed to assist local municipalities and non-profit organizations in developing and maintaining greenway corridors, parks, and trails that serve both the environment and the community. By investing in the creation and improvement of these spaces, the program enriches resident's quality of life.
Funded projects will establish or restore essential green areas, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and promoting conservation efforts. Additionally, improvements to trails and pathways will encourage walking, biking, and outdoor recreation, contributing to healthier lifestyles.
The Program includes four (4) broad funding categories:
- CONSERVE open space and natural features
- ENHANCE their environmental and recreational uses
- CONNECT communities, cultural/historic resources, and natural features
- PLANNING & DESIGN future amenities in a prioritized, strategic fashion
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Delaware County’s popular Delco Green Ways Grant Program is an excellent program around to help fund and complete your municipality’s open space projects. It provides an opportunity to do something transformative for your community's green spaces, trails, parks and people.
To see additional background information, including examples of previously funded projects and County awards, please visit
Imagine a Delaware County defined by its incredible green spaces, trails and recreational programs. This is our future as we make worthwhile investments in open spaces and greenways. Guided by the 2015 Delaware County Open Space, Recreation, and Greenway Plan - part of the County’s comprehensive plan, Delaware County 2035 - the Planning Department is pursuing the following initiatives which take action to better conserve, enhance, and connect Delaware County trough greenspace and trails:
In conducting trails and green space projects and initiatives, Planning Department staff leverages the power within Delaware County’s people –– municipal leaders, families, individual residents, outdoor recreation enthusiasts, the business community, the wellness community, tourists, county officials, and beyond. The Department’ work positions Delaware County to be a leader in green space conservation, parks and recreation, and trail development through sustainable funding, partnerships, and municipal collaboration. All residents will benefit from the economic impact, ecological services, and enhanced connections within the beautiful and diverse landscapes, towns, cultures, and people of Delaware County.
Delaware County Planning Department can assist municipalities in finding and applying for funding for projects.
DCPD Grant Letter of Support or Consistency
Below is a list of currently open funding resources. If you are applying for a grant, Department staff is available to assist with grant applications. If you are looking for a letter of support or consistency with the County Comprehensive Plan letter, please submit a grant letter of support form with the required information.
DCPD GRANT LETTER OF SUPPORT OR CONSISTENCY FORM
Explore the DCPD Grant Application Dashboard
For a comprehensive view of the grant applications submitted by the Planning Department, along with the application status and brief project descriptions, explore the DCPD Grant Applications Dashboard. This user-friendly dashboard enables users to easily filter applications by year submitted, status, funding program, and more.
EXPLORE THE DCPD GRANT APPLICATIONS DASHBOARD
You can also contact us to discuss your project or needs to help us inform you about future funding. To learn more about commonly available funding sources, view the Planner’s Portfolio Education Series on Funding.
Questions about Finding Funding? Contact the Planning Department at 610-891-5200 or Planning_Department@co.delaware.pa.us.
Upcoming Funding Deadlines
April 30, 2026 - Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2)
May 1, 2026 - All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP)
May 26, 2026 - Safe Streets for All (SS4A)
May 29, 2026 - Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP)
May 31, 2026 - Flood Mitigation Program (FMP)
May 31, 2026 - Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program (GTRP)
May 31, 2026 - Sewage Facilities Program (SFP)
May 31, 2026 - Watershed Restoration & Protection Program (WRPP)
June 30, 2026 - Pennsylvania Infrastructure Bank (PIB)
July 31, 2026 - Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF)
August 21, 2026 - NEVI Community Charging
December 31, 2026 - Solar for Schools Grant Program
Rolling Application - Blighted Property Demolition Fund
Rolling Application - Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites Program (PA SITES)
Rolling Application - Historical Marker Grant Programs
Rolling Application - Peer and Circuit Rider Grant Programs
Rolling Application - Pennsylvania First Program (PA First)
Rolling Application - Statewide Waterway Access Grant (SWAG)
Commonly used applications and forms requested by the Delaware County Planning Department can be found on this page.
For certain review services, the Planning Department requires accurate completion of official forms, as mandated by the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code. Other forms provide Department staff with the information needed to more quickly process requests. This page provides a central repository for forms found throughout the website.
The Act 247 Application is for development and ordinance proposals. Please be sure that this application contains the original signatures of the developer/applicant and designated municipal official and is submitted to the Planning Department along with a minimum of 3 sets of plans. For more information, see "Development Review."
Act 247 (Development Review) PDF Application
Act 247 (Development Review) Online Application
The Planning Department is the County agency responsible for processing form Component 4B – County Planning Agency Review of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Act 537 Sewage Facility Planning Modules. See DEP’s Act 537 review process and electronic forms. Developers and applicants submitting planning modules to the Planning Department for review should review the required information to ensure a timely review. For more information, see "Development Review."
Act 537 (Sewage Module) PDF Application
The Department can support funding applications that are consistent with County planning goals. In order to provide support letters to grants, we need to know about your project. The DCPD Grant Letter of Support or Consistency Form gives us the information we need to provide a letter of support and send it to the appropriate place. Please submit this form no later than 10 days prior to your grant deadline. For more information, see "Funding Assistance."
DCPD Grant Letter of Support or Consistency Form
Questions about finding or completing Forms? Contact the Planning Department at 610-891-5200 or Planning_Department@co.delaware.pa.us.
Learn about the Delaware County Planning Department’s plan and ordinance review process.
The Planning Department (DCPD) strives to improve the quality of development throughout the County by conducting advisory reviews of all land developments, subdivisions, and ordinances proposed in Delaware County. Staff planners present their reviews to the Delaware County Planning Commission at its monthly meetings, where official recommendations are made. In addition, Development Review staff provide technical assistance to municipalities and developers on site planning and ordinance compliance issues.
The Planning Department offers Pre-CAD workshops at the municipality’s discretion. Pre-CAD workshops are free of charge and intended to be held prior to submissions or engineered drawings to learn more about opportunities for a land development proposal by bringing together the municipality, landowner or developer, and the planning department.
ACT 247 SUBDIVISION AND LAND DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
Process
The Delaware County Planning Commission's application for mandated Act 247 Review must be completed and contain the original signatures of the developer/applicant and/or designated municipal official. Applicants have the option to submit online, mail-in (PDF), or in-person via application buttons below.
PDF Application for mandated Act 247 Review
Online Application for mandated Act 247 Review
The application can then be submitted to the Planning Department along with 3 sets of plans and the appropriate fee payment in accordance with the Fee Schedule and Submission Procedures for Subdivision and Land Development Reviews.
Fee Schedule and Submission Procedures
Applications submitted will be reviewed by the Planning Commission in accordance with the Meeting/Act 247 Review Application Schedule.
Meeting/Act 247 Review Application Schedule
Recording an Approved Plan
For a plan to be recorded, it must have been reviewed by the Delaware County Planning Commission (DCPC) and approved and signed by the municipal Council or the Board of Supervisors/Commissioners.
The applicant must then bring the approved plan to the Delaware County Planning Department where staff will confirm the Commission’s review of the plan before stamping and signing it. To expedite the stamping process, please bring the “DCPD File Number” that can be found on all correspondence from our office regarding the plan.
The applicant must then go to the Delaware County Board of Assessment-Appeals (ground floor of the Government Center building) to obtain a tax map number and folio number for lots that have been created via a subdivision or document/validate these numbers for existing lots.
The plan will then be recorded at the Delaware County Recorder of Deeds office (first floor of the Government Center building). The Recorder of Deeds requires plans for recording to be a minimum of 18" X 30" and no larger than 36" X 46". The fee for recording a plan can be found here.
For more information, please see Plan Recording on the Recorder of Deeds site.
SEWAGE MODULE REVIEW
Process
The Planning Department is the County agency responsible for processing form Component 4B – County Planning Agency Review of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Act 537 Sewage Facility Planning Modules. See DEP’s Act 537 review process and electronic forms. Developers and applicants submitting planning modules to the Planning Department for review should reference the documents below to ensure a timely review. Municipalities requesting review of a plan of study to revise a local Act 537 Plan should also refer to these documents.
Delaware County Act 537 Fee Schedule and Review Procedure
Delaware County PDF Application for Act 537 Review
MORE INFORMATION
I'm Interested In...
- Knowing more about the Delaware County Planning Commission
- Viewing what’s on the Planning Commission's Current Meeting Agenda, Past Agendas, or the Prior Month Applications
- Finding Parcel/Site Information
- Viewing the Proposed Subdivision and Land Development Mapping Application* and Dashboard* to see plans reviewed by the Delaware County Planning Commission
- Viewing the Countywide Zoning Application*
- Viewing Delaware County's Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO)
For questions about building permits, please contact your municipality’s code enforcement officials to obtain information concerning requirements and specific permit application status for your town.
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