FreeWheeling Easy Supplement

The east loop from McKeesport to Boston is open on a combination of trail, low-traffic roads, and bridge sidewalk. This route follows the established trail from the marina in McKeesport almost to the 15th St Bridge. Just before the 15th St Bridge, an asphalt ramp descends to cross under the bridge. This is the beginning of the East Loop. It goes for a mile and a half and ends at the McKeesport city limits. Here a gravel road goes under the RR bridge and up on the other side to join Douglas St. From here it is 1.3 miles on low-traffic roads to the Boston Bridge. One route follows Douglas St along the river then turns left on Juniper St to cross the active RR at the first opportunity. After crossing the RR, this route follows First St parallel to the tracks until reaching the Boston Bridge. Just before the bridge, it goes left up a hill to reach the bridge (one block is one-way; walk on the sidewalk). The bridge is narrow and busy, so walk across on the downstream sidewalk. At the end of the bridge, make two right turns to reach the Boston access area. This updates the map on p. 65; see the map on page S-6

Construction of the West Loop (Durabond bypass) has been delayed by soil conditions. It has been paved, but no fencing is in place.  Trail is currently closed due to construction activity.  Official opening is scheduled for Youghtoberfest, October 6-7.  This alternative from McKeesport to Boston follows the route described on p. 61. This updates the map on p. 65; see the map on page S-6 (Updated Sept 2001)