On March 25th, residents of Franklin and Bellingham gathered for an exciting event – the ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly resurfaced section of the Southern New England Rail Trail. This project has been a long time in the making, and the community is eager to celebrate the completion of this important infrastructure upgrade.

The resurfaced section of the Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail was completed in late 2023 and runs from Grove Street in Franklin to Prospect St. The trail is used by walkers, joggers, cyclists, and skaters of all ages and abilities, providing a safe and enjoyable outdoor space for residents to stay active and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings.

The resurfacing of a section of the trail has been a top priority for local officials and community members alike. The previous surface was worn, uneven, and prone to flooding making it difficult for some users to navigate safely. The new surface is smooth, even, and durable, providing a comfortable and safe experience for all who use the trail.

The ribbon cutting ceremony took place at the trailhead located at Grove Street in Franklin. Attendees encountered festive atmosphere, with speeches from local officials and community leaders. The ceremony culminated with the cutting of the ribbon, officially marking the opening of the newly resurfaced section of the trail, followed by a a group walk on the newly completed section of the trail.

Local officials are thrilled about the completion of the project and the positive impact it will have on the community. “The Rail Trail is a wonderful asset for our towns, and we’re proud to be part of its improvement,” said Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail President Cobi Frongillo. “This project will make the trail safer and more accessible for all users, and we’re excited to celebrate this important milestone with our community.”

The resurfacing project was designed by Franklin Department of Public works and carried out by Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. The Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail is a prime example of how investment in community infrastructure can have a positive impact on the quality of life for residents. The resurfaced section of the trail will provide a safe and enjoyable space for people of all ages and abilities to stay active and connect with nature.

The ribbon cutting ceremony for the resurfaced section of the Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail is an exciting event for the community, marking the completion of an important infrastructure upgrade that will benefit residents for years to come. Attendees can look forward to a celebration of community, outdoor recreation, and the power of investment in public infrastructure.