Lumberville Aqueduct Reopens After Four-Year Restoration

A Vital Connection Along the Delaware Canal Has Been Restored

October 2026

After more than four years of closure following the destruction caused by Hurricane Ida in September 2021, the historic Lumberville Aqueduct Pedestrian Bridge has officially reopened. The completion of this long-awaited project restores an important section of the Delaware Canal Towpath, reconnecting walkers, cyclists, and visitors to one of the region's most treasured recreational and historic resources. The bridge reopened to the public on October 29, 2025, following extensive reconstruction by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

Status: 🟢 Aqueduct reconstruction completed. Towpath reopened.

Why This Matters

The Lumberville Aqueduct carries the Delaware Canal over the Paunacussing Creek. During Hurricane Ida, powerful floodwaters destroyed the aqueduct's center support pier, forcing the closure of this section of the towpath for more than four years. The new structure was redesigned without a center pier, creating a more resilient crossing that is less likely to trap debris during future floods.

The restoration project:

• Restored a key section of the Delaware Canal Towpath

• Improved safety for walkers and cyclists

• Rebuilt the aqueduct with a flood-resilient design

• Eliminated the center support pier

• Reopened an important recreational and historic destination

A More Resilient Future

Construction began in 2024 after extensive engineering and planning. Rather than rebuilding the original structure, engineers designed a new aqueduct that spans Paunacussing Creek without a center support pier. This modern design allows floodwaters and debris to pass more freely beneath the bridge, reducing future maintenance and improving resilience during major storms.

Looking Ahead

The reopening of the Lumberville Aqueduct marks an important milestone in the ongoing restoration of the Delaware Canal following Hurricane Ida. Visitors can once again enjoy uninterrupted access across Paunacussing Creek and experience one of Bucks County's most scenic stretches of the Delaware Canal Towpath.