Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces $12 Million in Grants for 65 Trail Improvement Projects Across Massachusetts including in Clinton and Other Local Towns
HOLLISTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced $12 million in funding to support 65 trail improvement projects across Massachusetts. The MassTrails Grant Program expands and links the state’s networks of off-road, shared-use pathways and recreational trails through matching grants, technical assistance, and resources available to municipalities, non-profits, and other public entities. Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper, Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Commissioner Brian Arrigo, and local elected officials gathered in downtown Holliston to announce the awards aimed at enhancing the state’s trail infrastructure.
These grants will significantly bolster community and recreational trail networks, supporting the creation of new multi-use trails, enhancing accessibility, establishing connections between towns, constructing boardwalks and bridges, implementing signage, and expanding trail corridors across the state.
“An investment in our trails system is an investment in our residents. With increased access to outdoor recreation, we are enabling our residents to immerse themselves in nature and choose sustainable transportation options,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This funding not only drives economic growth and reduces emissions, but also contributes to the overall health of our community.”
“Our trail network links cities and towns across the region, playing a crucial role in building strong, united communities. They provide spaces for residents to come together, connect with each other, and engage in healthy, outdoor activities,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.
“Each mile of trail constructed represents a step towards reducing our carbon footprint and preserving our natural resources,” said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Walking and cycling reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality and trails play a crucial role in mitigating the environmental impact of commuting, leading to healthier communities.”
Energy & Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper attended and spoke at the June 21 Awards Ceremony. Pictured L-R: Chris Ebstein, Secretary Tepper, Mike Ward, Frannie Hodge, and DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo.
“At DCR, we witness firsthand how trails connect communities across Massachusetts, providing essential opportunities for outdoor recreation, tourism, and economic growth,” said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo. “Expanding and maintaining this extensive network is pivotal in improving accessibility and promoting healthier, more vibrant communities statewide. This grant program underscores our dedication to shared stewardship with our municipal partners, fostering collaboration and ensuring sustainable trail management for the benefit of all.”
This year’s MassTrails Grant projects will impact the following communities:
Amherst, Andover, Ashfield, Athol, Barnstable, Belchertown, Berlin, Billerica, Blandford, Canton, Chester, Clinton, Concord, Dennis, Dover, East Longmeadow, Easthampton, Edgartown, Erving, Everett, Fall River, Fitchburg, Framingham, Gardner, Great Barrington, Hancock, Hardwick, Harwich, Hawley, Holden, Holliston, Housatonic, Hubbardston, Lanesborough, Lawrence, Lenox, Malden, Marblehead, Mattapoisett, Methuen, Monterey, North Adams, Northampton, Otis, Peabody, Pittsfield, Rutland, Salisbury, Sandisfield, Sandwich, Savoy, Somerville, Statewide, Sturbridge, Sudbury, Taunton, Templeton, Tolland, Ware, Washington, West Springfield, Westport, Williamstown, Windsor, Winchendon, Worcester, Yarmouth.
WHAT DOES THIS GRANT AWARD MEAN FOR CLINTON?
Right now, the trail bed is accessible only to those who know where the hidden access point is. The plan for Build Phase One is to fund the construction of two access points to the trail from Rauscher Farm and the new trail head at 447 Berlin Street (marked by red circles on the map). Both access points will provide accessible parking and signage that will direct visitors to the trailheads. These 2 trailheads will connect to area trails on Rauscher Farm and other marked area trails (the dark red lines on the map, the trail marked in blue is Build Phase One.
The MassTrails grant application was submitted by the Clinton Greenway Conservation Trust on behalf of the Town of Clinton and was approved at the recent Town Meeting. The grant award is for $500,000, with the town paying the 20-percent required match, about $125,000. The bid documents will be posted by the town based on the design work paid for with a 2022 MassTrails grant.
Says CGCT president, Chris Ebstein, “We are so excited and grateful to be a recipient of a 2024 grant from MassTrails. It will allow us to bring this section of the Mass Central Rail Trail to life and benefit many residents of Clinton and other visitors to the area, providing an economic boost for downtown as well.”
Over time, this section of the Mass Central Rail Trail will be part of the 104-mile Mass Central Rail Trail from Boston to Northampton with 75 miles of trail expected to be completed by the end of 2025.