Shapiro Administration Working to Establish 9/11 National Memorial Trail Across Pennsylvania Ahead of 25th Anniversary of September 11th

As the 25th anniversary of September 11 approaches, the September 11th National Memorial Trail is proud to see Pennsylvania take this monumental and meaningful step towards advancing the 9/11 National Memorial Trail. A 1,500-mile multi-use route that serves as a living memorial, connecting New York City’s National September 11th Memorial, the Pentagon Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, and the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Today, Governor Josh Shapiro and his Administration announced a new statewide initiative to officially mark and establish the Trail's route across the Commonwealth primarily through signage. Working in partnership, the Alliance, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) will collaborate with counties and municipalities to install signage, highlight trail segments, and strengthen the local trail connections that make up the Pennsylvania portion of the 9/11 National Memorial Trail. 

“This project demonstrates what it means to honor through action,” said Governor Shapiro. “The 9/11 National Memorial Trail provides a meaningful way for communities across our Commonwealth to connect, reflect, and pay tribute to the heroes who ran toward danger and to the lives we lost.”

Since its inception, the Alliance has strived to develop and maintain the Trail as a way to physically and symbolically connect communities, landscapes, and inspiring stories of resilience. In Pennsylvania, that vision stretches across 25 counties and 129 towns. With guidance from PennDOT, nearly 750 trail signs have now been identified for installation across more than 900 miles of route throughout PA. This will assist in making it easier than ever for residents and visitors alike to follow the Trail seamlessly through the heart of Pennsylvania.

For the Alliance, this moment represents far more than infrastructure. It is the realization of the 9/11 National Memorial Trail as a living memorial. One that invites people to move, to reflect, and to connect directly with the landscapes that define our shared history.

“Trails connect communities, landscapes, memorials, and historic places,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “The 9/11 National Memorial Trail promotes health, supports the economy, and serves as a tribute to the fallen and first responders.” ​

That spirit of remembrance is deeply personal for the Alliance and many involved in the effort. Debby Borza, an Alliance Board Member and mother of Flight 93 passenger Deora Bodley, reflected on the importance of this milestone.

“The Trail gives families like mine the opportunity to walk the path, to reflect, and to appreciate the beauty of Pennsylvania. It is a living reminder of what we lost — and what we continue to build together.” - Debby Borza
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With statewide collaboration now underway, these efforts mark monumental progress for the 9/11 National Memorial Trail in Pennsylvania. As the 25th anniversary of September 11 draws near, the Alliance and its partners are working to ensure the Trail is fully marked and accessible — offering every Pennsylvanian, and every visitor, the chance to honor through discovery and connection. Each new sign will mark not only a route but the nation's promise to Never Forget - honoring heroes with every mile. 

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