Manayunk Canal boardwalk overhaul to focus on better lighting, signage

At a meeting on Wednesday night developers and community members continued an ongoing discussion about the revitalization of the Manayunk Canal boardwalk, which runs behind Manayunk’s Main Street business corridor.

According to Katherine Sykora, director of Destination Schuylkill River, attendees focused on ideas to attract passersby to the five points that connect Main Street and the boardwalk — Lock Street, Cotton Street, Rector Street, Canal View Park and Green Lane. 

On Rector Street, a proposed idea includes leveling off a cobblestoned area and turning it into a public seating. For the Green Lane entrance, turning the wooden steps into an accessible ramp was discussed. Attendees also talked about the need to make Canal View Park a more open space, that is better lit and more visible from Main Street.

Better lighting to lead folks to the boardwalk at all points of entry was a major concern. Developers are considering additional street lighting and banners. 

Lighting on the water and on the facade of the buildings on the canal was also discussed. 

“There are some wonderful old buildings back there and you can really make a visual statement here,” said Sykora.

The group plans to wrap up feasibility planning by July.