The huge potential of a completed MCRT
104 Miles from Northampton to Boston
Over 55 miles of the MCRT are now open, half of which are paved, the other half are stone dust. And additional miles are opening every year through the hard work of dedicated volunteers, municipalities, state agencies and local land trusts. By fostering a cooperative agreement between state and local governments, local landowners, and land trusts, we can help preserve, protect and open the remaining miles. Let’s #FinishTheRailTrail!
The MCRT will provide Economic, Environmental and Health Benefits
Shared-use paths contribute significant economic benefits to the communities they intersect by providing access to businesses within walking and biking distance. A recent economic study shows that a completed MCRT could bring in 4-5 million users and 400,000 overnight visitors per year. A total of $200 million in annual economic impacts!
In more populated areas, shared-use paths lessen the number of vehicles on the road, reducing the amount of harmful pollutants going into the air.
Conveniently available rail trails increase the likelihood that residents will walk or bike to work, school and business areas. Safe, regular exercise promotes mental and physical health.
...And rail trails are accessible!
Rail trails greatly enhance easy access to healthy activities for all people, including those who use
assistive devices like wheelchairs, walkers, strollers and e-bikes.
Continuing to develop the MCRT has huge potential for Massachusetts and for your community.
Completing a Safe Route Across Massachusetts
Several communities, organizations, and State agencies are working together to complete sections of the MCRT. Their projects include feasibility studies, planning, design, construction, repair and restoration, and enhancements to improve accessibility and wayfinding. These efforts are supported by a mix of municipal, State and Federal funds, and we are all grateful to have MassTrails grants as the primary source of support.
From restoring a beloved, scenic 19th century railroad bridge in Belchertown, to building new sections of the trail in Ware, to increasing accessibility in Rutland, and restoring a busy link in Cambridge, communities across the MCRT are consistently working on their sections of the trail. Even better, communities are learning from and supporting each other through the MCRT Alliance.
Key Opportunities for the MCRT
Completing the MCRT has its challenges, but with experience and collaboration - of the many local and state groups involved - comes solutions. Some key opportunities include building right-of-ways and bridges to secure safe travel, and re-purposing unused railroad land for trails.
Trail Grant Opportunities
There are worthwhile grant opportunities offered both nationally and in Massachusetts that can help support finishing the undeveloped sections of the MCRT. To date, many miles of the MCRT have been completed with the help of MassTrails Grants.