AGP Executive Report

Fall Travel & Outdoors: Cook Forest State Park is spotlighting trails for every skill level, from an ADA-friendly Sensory Trail to the more challenging River Trail with Clarion River views. Hunting & Wildlife: Pennsylvania’s first archery deer season of the 2026-27 year kicks off Sept. 19 in select Wildlife Management Units, with the rest of the state opening Oct. 3. Game Lands Driving Tours: The Pennsylvania Game Commission is offering free, self-guided habitat driving tours this fall, including an Elk County tour Oct. 16 on State Game Lands 311. ATV Access: Treasure Lake POA won a $1M DCNR grant for the Cayman Landing ATV Trailhead Phase 1, aiming to expand legal riding and boost campground stays. Local Events: Downtown Lancaster’s free Lancaster Capital Day festival (Sept. 26) brings music, food, history tours, and a costume parade. Health Alert: Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak continues to drive parents to vaccinate early and adjust plans, with public exposure warnings affecting travel and gatherings.

Outdoor Adventure: Trails at Jakes Rocks in Warren County is celebrating its 10th annual Trail Fest, drawing mountain bikers and outdoor fans to mark a decade of trail growth and tourism momentum. Travel & Tourism (Pennsylvania ties): The PA Turnpike Commission is partnering with the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association for National Truck Drivers Appreciation Week, with events at service plazas across the system—plus reminders for safer, smoother travel. Fall Getaway Planning: A new report ranks the best casino getaways by state, with Nevada taking No. 1 and South Dakota landing No. 2—useful inspiration for travelers planning a gaming-and-entertainment trip. Family Travel Safety: Pennsylvania health officials are watching measles exposure risks as cases surge nationally, including reports of unvaccinated travelers exposing people in other states—an extra reason to check vaccination status before trips. Invasive Species Watch: Spotted lanternfly has been detected in Canada for the first time, raising new concerns for Pennsylvania’s grape and wine regions and other host plants. Local Community Events: Philadelphia’s fall tourism season is getting a boost with new arts and airport upgrades, as hotel prices drop from summer peaks.

Outdoors & Hunting: Pennsylvania’s early bowhunting season for antlered and antlerless deer opens Sat., Sept. 19 in WMU 2B, plus 5C and 5D, with a split season running into late fall and again in late December. Public Health: Philadelphia health officials issued a measles exposure warning tied to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) on Sept. 11, listing multiple locations and times and urging families to check vaccination status. Tourism & Local Culture: Jefferson County’s Development Council highlighted “great things” for the region, including growth tied to tourism dollars and economic impact. Travel Safety & Infrastructure: PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll recognized 30 PennDOT employees with the Star of Excellence Award, spotlighting the people behind day-to-day travel services. Food & Seasonal Travel: York Imperials—Pennsylvania’s most-grown apple—are a processing favorite with a tart-to-sweet flavor shift as they ripen, a fun fall food stop idea for orchard and cider routes. Community & Care: A Clearfield-area EMT program graduate, Courtney Abrahamson, completed training through NPRC’s hybrid format, supporting local ambulance services.

EV Charging Push: Pennsylvania will direct $32M in federal NEVI funding to build new EV chargers in eastern communities, with applications open until March 12, 2027—part of a broader effort that’s already supported 146,000 charging sessions. Invasive Species Alert: Spotted lanternfly has been detected for the first time in Canada in Windsor, raising new stakes for Pennsylvania’s vineyards and yards as the pest spreads. Family Travel Safety: PennDOT and partners are reminding drivers about correct child car seat use ahead of Child Passenger Safety Week (Sept. 20–26). Tourism & Community: The PA Route 6 Alliance recognized Mansfield and Port Allegany as Heart and Soul communities, highlighting local stories that can draw visitors. Road Trip Planning: A guide maps when fall foliage peaks across NEPA, with timing expected to hit early through late October. Local Events: Mountain Creek Resort’s Oktoberfest (Sept. 19–20) and Fall Fest (Sept. 26–Oct. 25) kick off the region’s autumn calendar. Travel Infrastructure: A bill would require clearer Pennsylvania Turnpike toll rate signage so drivers know costs before they reach the booths.

Measles Alert for Travelers & Families: Kansas confirmed two measles cases tied to domestic travel, as the U.S. hits its highest annual count since 1991; in Pennsylvania, four measles-associated deaths this year are reported, with local health groups urging residents to check MMR vaccination status before school and community outings. Back-to-School Vaccination Push: Delaware County leaders partnered with the county health department for “exclusion day” clinics so students could get needed shots nearby instead of being turned away. Tourism & Outdoor Spotlight: A Jefferson County Development Council update highlights “great things” and a tourism boost tied to the PA Wilds region. EV Charging Policy Watch: A look at the NEVI public EV charging program notes federal funding aimed at building a reliable fast-charging network—after attempts to cut it failed. Local Travel Safety/Infrastructure: PennDOT’s Innovations Challenge asks high schoolers to tackle bridge-strike problems, a reminder for drivers and RV travelers heading into fall. Community & Health Risks Near Home: Reporting on proposed data centers in rural Pennsylvania shows residents raising concerns about health and environmental impacts as development plans move forward.

New Year-Round Fun in the Poconos-adjacent crowd: Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Wisconsin Dells just announced its $85 million Aquadome™ indoor waterpark expansion opens Oct. 10, with a retractable roof and a new enclosed Boomerango—another big push to keep families visiting beyond summer. PennDOT Travel Advisory: Route 849 (Duncannon Subway) will close about 18 days starting Sept. 21 for drainage repairs in Penn Township, with detours via Route 11 and Route 22/322. Road Safety Focus: Pennsylvania State Police will increase DUI patrols through Sept. 25, including a sobriety checkpoint. Local Arts for Visitors: Visit Philadelphia launched the Philly Arts Event Finder on visitphilly.com, pulling events from 180+ venues into one free search tool. Family Outdoors: A new guide highlights year-round active family ideas across Pennsylvania, from fall foliage planning to winter indoor options. Fuel Watch: AAA reports Pennsylvania gas averages around $4.49 and diesel at a record $6.41, keeping travel costs high. Health Alert: Pennsylvania is among states seeing measles activity, with officials urging providers to stay alert.

Travel Safety & Roads: Pennsylvania State Police reported a rear-end crash on I-80 in Scrubgrass Township (Sept. 4) that left a 47-year-old man with a suspected minor leg injury. Local History Tourism: The Old Stone House in Brady Township (near Slippery Rock) is being transferred to Jennings Environmental Education Center, with renovations underway and plans to reopen to the public. Fall Foliage Planning: DCNR says weekly fall foliage reports will start in early October, with leaf color influenced by uneven rain across the state. Outdoor Getaway: A guide highlights Rock Run in Loyalsock State Forest, with waterfalls and scenic stops for hikers and anglers. Family-Friendly Events: Williamsport will host the African Children’s Choir’s “Light Your World” tour on Oct. 2 at City Church. Community & Culture: Berks County Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announces a reimagined Blues & Boogie Weekend at the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton Reading (Nov. 19–22). Health Watch: Pennsylvania confirmed another measles-associated death in Mifflin County, tied to a rare neurological complication (ADEM).

Holiday Lights & Family Fun: Lehigh Valley Zoo’s Winter Light Spectacular returns for its 13th year, running 37 dates from Nov. 13 through Jan. 2, with 1.7 million lights, nightly performances, and new 2026 additions. Tourism Spotlight: Travel + Leisure named Cullman Christkindlmarkt one of America’s top Christmas markets—alongside Bethlehem, PA—highlighting the growing draw of holiday events. Fall Foliage by Rail: New Hope Railroad’s Fall Foliage Excursion rolls through Bucks County this October on restored early-1900s coaches, with a narrated route and options like First Class or a private caboose. Local Visitor Economy: Reading Terminal Market says it drew nearly 6 million visitors and $1.2 billion in Philadelphia spending last year, underscoring its pull for tourists and locals alike. Getting There & Costs: GasBuddy reports Fayette County’s lowest midgrade price at $4.39 (week ending Sept. 5), while Lycoming County’s lowest diesel hit $5.39. Health Watch: Measles cases keep rising across Pennsylvania; Allegheny County says it has no documented resident case yet, but vaccination and exposure precautions remain key. Energy & Travel Infrastructure: The PA Turnpike Commission is nearing completion on a solar canopy at its Central Administration Building, powering EV charging stations.

Historic Hotels & Road Trips: Historic Hotels of America just unveiled its 2026 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America Great American Road Trip Hotels list, highlighting heritage stays along major routes—including Pennsylvania’s Route 6—perfect for travelers planning scenic drives. PennDOT & Safer Travel: PennDOT launched its Innovations Challenge for high school students, aiming to reduce over-height vehicle bridge strikes that disrupt travel and cause costly repairs. New Trail Connection: The Valley Forge Gateway Trail Partnership is pushing a 2.8-mile multiuse trail linking the Chester Valley Trail and Schuylkill River Trail through Upper Merion Township, adding another reason to explore the region on foot or by bike. RV Show in Hershey: Winnebago Industries will bring 150+ RVs from Winnebago, Grand Design, and Newmar to America’s Largest RV Show at the Giant Center in Hershey (Sept. 16–20), with test drives for select models. Local Travel Alert: Paving starts Sept. 15 on Liberty Valley Road (Route 642) in Liberty Township, with single-lane flagging expected through Oct. 2. Family-Friendly Culture: Bellefonte’s Wine and Spirits Walk returns Oct. 3, with a fall, spooky theme and a walkable downtown setting.

9/11 Remembrance: Pennsylvania communities marked the 25th anniversary with solemn ceremonies honoring first responders and victims, including Franklin’s Public Square gathering and local tributes across the region. Public Safety & Travel Disruption: The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is starting a $90.5 million reconstruction and widening project on I-276 in Bucks County as part of the I-95 Interchange effort, aiming to improve traffic flow for East Coast travelers. Local Crime With National Impact: A 20-year-old Pennsylvania man, Jonathan Hunter Kramer, faces federal charges after FBI alleges he obtained a rifle and ammunition for an ISIS-linked terror plot. Road Costs at the Pump: AAA reports Western Pennsylvania gas prices climbed again, with regular averaging $4.537 in the region; Allegheny County premium hit a low of $4.29 in the week ending Sept. 5. Tourism Trade: Kensington Tours named Daniel Jimenez director of sales, supporting travel advisor partners across Eastern Pennsylvania and nearby states. Health Alert: Jefferson County’s coroner updated a death certificate, saying a “probable” measles case contributed to a woman’s death as Pennsylvania’s outbreak continues.

Rail & Tourism: PennDOT and Amtrak are adding a second daily Pittsburgh-to-New York train, expected to start in November after corridor upgrades—good news for weekend trips and business travel. Family Travel & Local Stays: The Haines Shoe House in Hellam Township (near York) is still drawing visitors as a quirky boot-shaped rental where guests can sleep inside. Attractions & Events: Kennett Square’s 41st Mushroom Festival pulled in thousands, while the Erie Marathon brought nearly 1,200 runners to Presque Isle. Tourism Funding: Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency awarded new tourism grants, including support for Sarris Candies factory tours and upgrades tied to local attractions and trails. Health Watch: Pennsylvania reported additional measles deaths and cases as outbreaks expand—plan travel with extra caution if you’re unvaccinated. Travel Disruption: Flooding disrupted Amtrak service between Boston and New York, with some Pennsylvania-area trips affected.

Transit Disruption: Amtrak canceled or delayed nearly all Boston–New York trains after flash flooding and debris near New Haven, with some Philadelphia–New York service also hit; Amtrak warned passengers to expect alternate transportation as crews inspect tracks. Luxury Stay Spotlight: Waldorf Astoria Washington DC leans into its Old Post Office history, with protected landmark status and free tours of the museum and bell tower adding to the appeal for visitors. Pennsylvania Travel Watch: Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park near State College is reportedly seeking to become a state park—owners say it would be preserved rather than developed. Fall Foliage Forecast: NEPA is set up for a strong autumn color season, with higher elevations (including parts of the Poconos and northern counties) possibly peaking around Oct. 5–12. Family-Friendly Fun: The Kennett Square Mushroom Festival (41st year) returns this weekend, celebrating multi-generation Pennsylvania mushroom farming. Road Trip Fuel Check: In Blair County, one station hit the week’s lowest premium price at $4.89/gal (week ending Sept. 5), while the county average sat at $5.11.

9/11 Remembrance in PA: Pennsylvania marked the 25th anniversary with a major milestone for travelers and history buffs: Gov. Josh Shapiro and partners unveiled the final sign completing the state’s 920-mile stretch of the 9/11 National Memorial Trail, starting at Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville. Local Tourism & Food: Kennett Square’s 41st Mushroom Festival returns as a family-farm celebration, highlighting how Pennsylvania grows most of the nation’s mushrooms and why the region’s farm-to-table roots keep drawing visitors. Outdoor & Family Fun: The Dream Asia Festival brings Asian food, culture, and performances to Oaks for its weekend run. Community Events: Wilkes-Barre hosted its Multicultural Parade and Festival on Public Square, with vendors, performers, and food reflecting Northeastern Pennsylvania’s diverse communities. Travel Safety Note: Dauphin County restaurant inspections reported issues like raw shell eggs stored above soft drinks and raw fish/food labeling problems at some locations. Lake Erie Name Debate: A Pennsylvania lawmaker is pushing to rename Lake Erie “Lake Pennsylvania,” pitching it as tied to Erie tourism and recreation.

Fall Family Fun in Chester County: Kennett Square’s Mushroom Festival (41st year) is drawing crowds with farm-to-table mushroom dishes plus courses that highlight how Pennsylvania grows most of the nation’s mushrooms. Community & Culture: Wilkes-Barre’s Multicultural Parade and Festival filled Public Square with food, performers, and vendors celebrating the region’s many heritage groups. Outdoor & Hunting Plans: The Pennsylvania Bowhunters Festival runs Sept. 18–20 at the Sullivan County Fairgrounds in Forksville, with 3D target shooting, trails, and competitions. Tourism Spotlight: Historic Hotel Bethlehem in Pennsylvania keeps winning national praise, taking USA Today 10Best’s Best Historic Hotel/Resort for the sixth straight year. Travel Practicalities: Remote Area Medical brought free dental, vision, and medical care to Erie with long early-morning lines—an easy reminder to plan ahead for seasonal events and services. Nature Watch: Spotted lanternflies are now in 22 states, and Pennsylvania is urging residents to “kill it” to protect vineyards and other plants. Lake Erie Renaming Push: A Pennsylvania lawmaker is asking Trump to rename Lake Erie “Lake Pennsylvania,” a move likely to spark debate with Native communities. Local Sports Day Trip: West Chester University’s field hockey team heads to Mansfield for a Sunday matinee.

Tourism Win: Historic Hotel Bethlehem in Pennsylvania just repeated as USA Today 10Best’s top “Best Historic Hotel/Resort,” with Hotel Hershey and Omni Bedford Springs also making the Pennsylvania list—plus reported tourism lift after the national buzz. Outdoor & Wildlife: Hawk migration is in full swing, and one Pennsylvania-area hawk counter points to big gains in bald eagle numbers at Hawk Mountain, a feel-good sign for birdwatchers. Travel Safety & Infrastructure: PennDOT is running its 10th annual Innovations Challenge, asking Pennsylvania high schoolers to design solutions to prevent tall-vehicle bridge strikes—an issue that directly affects travelers. Regional Recreation: A Pennsylvania lawmaker is pushing to rename Lake Erie “Lake Pennsylvania,” arguing it better reflects the state’s boating, fishing, and tourism identity. Local 9/11 Remembrance: Multiple stories mark the 25th anniversary with ceremonies and personal accounts tied to Pennsylvania and nearby communities, including Flight 93 remembrance. Sports Travel: Penn State hosts Temple at Lincoln Financial Field—game-day travel planning will matter for fans heading into Philadelphia.

9/11 Remembrance (Pennsylvania ties): Communities across the U.S. marked the 25th anniversary with ceremonies that included the Flight 93 crash site in southwestern Pennsylvania, where families and first responders reflected on the day’s lasting impact and the ongoing work of keeping those stories alive. Travel & tourism angle: The anniversary also highlighted how travel changed after 9/11—especially airport security and the way Americans experience flying today. Local travel-related policy: Pennsylvania state Rep. David Maloney urged President Trump to rename Lake Erie “Lake Pennsylvania,” arguing the name would better reflect the lake’s role in boating, fishing, and tourism. Health & travel planning: Pennsylvania reported four measles breakthrough cases in vaccinated people across several counties—rare, but a reminder for travelers to check local outbreaks and stay up to date on immunizations. On-the-ground hospitality: In a separate travel/community note, a long-running family restaurant in St. Michaels, Maryland announced it will close after 61 years, underscoring how local dining staples can disappear even as visitors keep coming.