PITTSBURGH –The Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County (RAAC), under the umbrella of Allegheny County Economic Development (ACED), completed the acquisition of the 3.6-mile Brilliant Branch rail line on April 4th, 2025. RAAC acquired the line from the Allegheny Valley Railroad using $3.5 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds that were allocated to Allegheny County’s Trail Development Fund. The acquisition marks a major step forward in transforming the former railroad corridor into a multi-municipal and multi-use pedestrian and bike trail that will expand access, recreation, and economic development throughout the region.
“I’m thrilled that this final 3.6-mile portion of the Brilliant line has been acquired. I want to thank RAAC and ACED for the years of work to bring us to this moment,” said County Executive Sara Innamorato. “The next stage of conversion into a multi-use trail will include robust public engagement opportunities. Hearing from neighbors and community members about their hopes for transforming this former railroad corridor into an improved pedestrian and bike experience for residents and visitors alike.”
RAAC will work in partnership with adjacent communities and stakeholders to convert the Brilliant Branch into a multi-use trail that will connect Pittsburgh neighborhoods such as Homewood and Lincoln-Lemington-Belmar to Aspinwall’s Allegheny RiverTrail Park (ATP), and ultimately to the Allegheny Shores development in Sharpsburg. The trail will also serve as a link to the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, offering new non-vehicular access routes to Downtown Pittsburgh.
Selection of a consultant for design and engineering is set to commence later this year, with robust community engagement to follow. Input from residents and local businesses will play a crucial role in ensuring the future trail meets the needs of the community today and reflects the shared goals and visions for the future.
The trail conversion builds upon over a decade of community advocacy. Initially pursued by the nonprofit Allegheny RiverTrail Park (ATP), the group entered into a purchase agreement with Allegheny Valley Railroad in 2021. In 2023, the agreement was formally assigned to RAAC to complete the purchase. A 2024 decision by the Surface Transportation Board (STB) approved the Notice of Interim Trail Use (NOITU), enabling the rail corridor to be preserved for future trail use.
“This acquisition represents more than just a purchase,” said Lauren Connelly, Director of Allegheny County Economic Development. “It demonstrates the County’s continued commitment to enhancing the quality of life of our residents. It’s about creating vibrant spaces that promote health, wellness, and connectivity and can serve as a catalyst for inclusive investment and growth.I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who worked over the last decade to make the acquisition possible, including: Allegheny RiverTrail Park, Allegheny County’s Department of Public Works, many federal, state, and local leaders, and ACED’s project management and legal teams.”
RAAC assists with the generation, stimulation, and management of economic and community growth. It acquires and prepares local real estate for economic development, manages financing from public sources, and facilitates the reuse of vacant, tax-delinquent, or blighted properties.
For more updates on Allegheny County trail development, visit: AlleghenyCounty.us/Redevelopment-Authority
Photo by Jordan Whitacre
