NJTPA seeks public input on improving trail connections in Morris, Passaic and Union counties
MORRIS COUNTY, N.J. — Residents and trail users are being asked to help identify gaps and barriers in North Jersey’s trail network as transportation planners study potential connections between several existing trails.
The North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority is conducting an online survey seeking input from people who walk, bike or roll in Morris, Passaic and Union counties. The survey will remain open through Monday, Sept. 7.
Officials are seeking feedback on locations where connections between trails and nearby destinations could be made safer, easier and more comfortable.
“Whether you walk or bike these trails regularly or just enjoy them from time to time, we want to hear from you. Your knowledge and experience of our trails helps us identify opportunities to improve safety and make our trail network even better,” said Morris County Commissioner Stephen H. Shaw, Third Vice Chair of the NJTPA Board of Trustees. “We encourage everyone to take a few minutes to complete the survey and share your ideas.”
The NJTPA is also seeking input from residents who would like to walk or bike more frequently but encounter barriers that make those trips difficult. Responses could help identify missing trail connections, crossings and other conditions that prevent people from comfortably reaching their destinations.
The feedback will be used to help develop recommendations through studies of the Pompton Valley Rail Trail and Traction Line Recreation Trail.
The Pompton Valley Rail Trail Extension Study is examining potential connections between the northern end of the trail in Pequannock Township and the southern end of the Highlands Rail Trail in Wanaque Borough. The study is also looking at connecting the trail to the Mountain View Train Station in Wayne.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the official opening of the Pompton Valley Rail Trail was held in May 2025.
The Traction Line Recreation Trail Extension Study is examining options for connecting the trail to Patriot’s Path and the Rahway Valley Rail Trail.
Officials said improving connections between existing trails could make them more useful for both recreation and everyday transportation while providing better access to neighborhoods, parks, open spaces, public transit and other destinations.
The studies are being conducted in partnership with the North Jersey Trail Network initiative, led by the New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition and Rails-to-Trails Conservancy.
Residents can complete the survey at bit.ly/nj-trails through Sept. 7. Additional information about the studies is available at njtpa.org/trails.
