Press Release  DCR Celebrates Completion of Blackstone Section of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail

Blackstone — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today celebrated the completion of a $14 million project that extends DCR’s 3.7-mile segment of the Blackstone River Greenway in Blackstone, Millville, and Uxbridge to the Massachusetts/Rhode Island border. Finished one year ahead of schedule, this project adds a half-mile stretch to the Blackstone River Greenway, extending from the Saint Paul Street Bridge in the Town of Blackstone to the Rhode Island border. The new section creates an accessible trail for users of all abilities.

The Blackstone project rehabilitated an important single-span railroad viaduct, both essential historic and cultural resources. The trail runs on top of these structures.

“It is one thing to talk about making changes, but we are actually showing it can be done. Expanding our trails is not just a plan – it’s a reality,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “This means less reliance on fossil fuels and more opportunities for alternative transportation like walking or cycling, which will encourage healthier, more connected communities.”  

“DCR’s vast trail network helps us build healthy communities across our state by providing essential opportunities for outdoor recreation and green transportation, fostering tourism and economic growth,” said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo. “This project adds a critical link to our evolving interstate trail network, while also representing a major investment in the preservation of the Town of Blackstone’s historical and industrial heritage.” 

This segment of the Blackstone River Greenway is just one piece of an envisioned 50-mile greenway with a paved shared-use path connecting Providence, Rhode Island, to Worcester.

In addition, the Blackstone River Greenway overlaps this location with the 22-mile Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT). The SNETT is a former railroad corridor that runs from Franklin State Forest in the Town of Franklin to Douglas State Forest in the Town of Douglas. The trail is popular for bicyclists, cross-country skiers, equestrians and hikers. DCR recently invested in the SNETT in Bellingham and Franklin, installing a tunnel under Prospect Street and resurfacing the trail from Prospect Street to Grove Street. In addition, DCR is actively working to extend the SNETT into downtown Franklin and from Bellingham to Blackstone, in addition to improving additional segments between Blackstone and Douglas.

The long-term vision is for an interconnected inter-state trail network that would connect multiple communities in Massachusetts to one another, as well as to Connecticut, Rhode Island, and the commuter rail in Franklin. 

“The Blackstone River Greenway is a gem of my district that highlights the beauty of the Blackstone Valley while also appreciating its history,” said Sen. Ryan Fattman. “I'm glad to see the continuation of the Greenway and look forward to walking the path alongside my family in the months and years to come. A big congratulations to the town of Blackstone, especially Mary Bulso, for your advocacy and efforts in bringing this to

fruition.” 

“The opening of the Blackstone River Greenway is going to be another great asset to the local economy, beautifying the area and creating a great outdoor recreational area for all the residents and surrounding communities that utilize the greenway,” said Rep. Mike Soter.  

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