Commerce and Canals: The Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor

The Setting

As with most settlements, this area of Pennsylvania grew up in the early 19th century around transportation routes. In this case, it was the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers and the series of canals that were developed to transport coal from the mines to other cities. By the 1930s, this mode of transportation became obsolete, and in the years to come, communities and businesses dried up. Was there something that could be done to save this part of the area’s history?

What Happened Next

Friends of the Delaware Canal was formed in 1982. In the ensuing years, efforts included:

• A master plan was devised for the corridor’s rehabilitation
• The Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor was designated by Congress in 1988
• A 10-year Management Action Plan was created in 1993
• Plans were developed for moving visitors through the region
• Research was conducted to document and interpret important historical stories
• Preservation and conservation plans were developed.
• Economic development plans focused on quality of life improvements.

Results

• In 1993, the Corridor Visitors Center was completed.
• The National Canal Museum was developed in Easton, and more than 100 new businesses opened.
• National heritage area designation was given to two state parks.
• Heritage area designation has helped attract $54 million in investments in 13 years.
• Audubon’s Lehigh Auto Tour was developed through collaboration of the Environmental Protection Agency, Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs Bureau of State Parks, Carbon County and the D&L Heritage Corridor Commission.

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