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During construction, there would be minimal, if any, filling of wetlands. Sediment barriers would be employed. If the trail were unlighted, disruption of nighttime wildlife use would be minimal. Any fencing must allow wildlife passage. … More →

If built according to shared-use-path standards, the travel surface would be 10 feet wide with a two-foot shoulder on each side. The minimum distance between trees on opposite sides of the trail would be 16 … More →

If the Town decides to convert the rail bed into a rail trail, it is likely that the Town would play the lead role in designing the trail and applying for construction funds. In such … More →

Because ties were treated with creosote, they would have to be disposed of through special arrangements. Any residual contamination of the rail bed due to the creosote would be dealt with as part of the … More →

Several town wells are located south of Route 20 and a short distance east of the rail bed. The RTCAC and other town commissions will carefully examine the potential effects of rail trail construction on … More →

The general procedures for identifying and mitigating contamination along rail trails have been worked out. The Mass. Environmental Protection Agency has issued a document entitled ΓÇ£Best Management PracticesΓÇ¥ that outlines the approach for identifying, managing … More →

There are wetlands and habitat for rare and endangered species alongside the rail bed. Several vernal pools lie close to the railroad right of way. If the rail trail conversion proceeds, the trail will have … More →