Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces $12 Million in Grants for Trail Improvement Projects Across Massachusetts

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. “The MassTrails program enhances connectivity and invites exploration and appreciation of the diverse resources that define Massachusetts.” 

“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. By encouraging alternative transportation options, trails play a crucial role in mitigating the environmental impact of commuting, leading to healthier communities.” 

“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.” 

During the visit, state officials awarded the Town of Holliston nearly $54,000 for a construction project aimed at improving drainage along a problematic section of the Upper Charles Trail. This area features ditches prone to leaf debris accumulation, causing stormwater runoff to divert onto the trail and leading to washouts. The project will excavate these ditches, install drainage pipes to enhance water flow management, and widen the trail to enhance safety for all users. 

The inter-agency MassTrails Team, comprising MassDOT, EEA, DCR, and the Massachusetts Recreational Trails Advisory Board (MARTAB), reviews all grant applications. The program provides essential funding for the development, design, and construction of shared-use pathways, enhancing connections where people live, work, and recreate. These funds support recreational trails accommodating a wide range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, paddling, snowmobiling, and recreational off-highway vehicle riding. 

This year’s MassTrails Grant projects will impact the following communities:

Amherst, Andover, Ashfield, Athol, Barnstable, Barre, Belchertown, Berlin, Billerica, Blandford, Canton, Chester, Clinton, Concord, Deerfield, 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, Lee, Lenox, Lynnfield, Malden, Marblehead, Mattapoisett, Methuen, Monterey, North Adams, Northampton, Otis, Peabody, Pittsfield, Rutland, Salisbury, Sandisfield, Sandwich, Savoy, Somerville, Sturbridge, Sudbury, Sunderland, Taunton, Templeton, Tolland, Wakefield, Washington, West Springfield, Westport, Whately, Williamsburg, Williamstown, Windsor, Winchendon, Worcester, Yarmouth. 

For more information on the MassTrails Grant Program and updates on trail development across Massachusetts, visit Welcome to MassTrails.

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