Expanding The Circuit Trails Network

The William Penn Foundation (WPF), headquartered in Philadelphia, has a longstanding commitment to enhancing environmental conditions across Greater Philadelphia. As part of its Environment and Public Space program, WPF is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) titled “Expanding the Circuit Trails Network.” The primary objective of this RFP is to add 75 miles to the Circuit Trails network by the year 2035. This initiative aligns with WPF’s broader environmental goals and has been shaped in collaboration with numerous regional stakeholders. This RFP supports a wide variety of project types that contribute directly or indirectly to the Circuit Trails expansion, excluding capital development like right-of-way acquisition, planning, design, engineering, and construction of trail segments. Instead, funding will support activities such as advocacy, technical assistance, community engagement, communications, stewardship, and programming linked to specific trail expansion efforts. Proposals are especially encouraged if they align with Priority Projects identified by the Circuit Trails Coalition, a regional alliance of over 50 organizations. Eligibility is open to 501(c)(3) public charities and government entities. Proposed projects must target expansion within the defined Circuit Trails network in specified counties in Pennsylvania (Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia) and New Jersey (Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Mercer). There are no minimum or maximum funding limits, but the total available funding under this RFP is $6 million, and requested grants should be proportionate to the expected contribution toward the overall 75-mile expansion goal. The evaluation process emphasizes clear alignment with the RFP objective, defined beneficiaries (especially underserved communities), meaningful community engagement, well-documented partnerships, organizational capacity, and project feasibility. Additional equity considerations and a reasonable budget are also required. Proposals must outline the specific trail segments involved, estimated mileage added, expected impact, and how the work ties into the Circuit Trails Coalition’s strategic plan. Applications are due by July 25, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET. An optional informational webinar is scheduled for June 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM ET. Selected applicants will be invited for site visits from August 11 to September 5, 2025. Final funding decisions will be made by the WPF Board on October 24, 2025, with project implementation beginning in November 2025. Applicants must submit their proposals through the WPF online submission system at https://wpf.my.site.com/grantee. For further questions, applicants can contact Michele Perch at mperch@williampennfoundation.org.

The Foundation emphasizes the importance of partnerships and collaboration, encouraging proposals that leverage complementary strengths and resources.