Overview of the SNETT
The Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) is a 22-mile former rail corridor owned and managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) between the Connecticut State Line in Douglas, MA, traveling through Uxbridge, Millville, Blackstone, Bellingham, and ending in Franklin, MA. The SNETT connects to the 50-mile Airline Trail in Connecticut and to the Blackstone River Bikeway in Rhode Island. Parts of the SNETT are currently undeveloped and closed. Other sections of the Trail are a stabilized aggregate surface, and the 3.5-mile central section has been fully developed as the paved Blackstone River Greenway in Blackstone, Millville, and Uxbridge. The SNETT has been identified as a priority for development by the Governor’s Inter-Agency Trail Team.
Project Overview
This project proposes to fully upgrade the SNETT, from the CT-Line to Depot Street in Douglas, a length of approximately 6 miles. The project scope includes:
- Full design and environmental permitting
- Development of an ADA-accessible, 10-foot-wide shared use rail trail
- Proposed equestrian/ running side path
- Reconstruction of two (2) bridges in Douglas State Forest
- Installation of a welcome gateway at the CT/ MA line
- Improvements to signage, wayfinding, benches, and other amenities
- Upgrade of two (2) new trailheads and parking areas
Project Timeline
COMPLETED:
- Design Project Award: Winter 2019
- Survey and Wetland Delineation: Spring, Summer 2019
- Preliminary Trail Design: Fall 2019
- Preliminary Landscape Design: Fall 2019
- Information-sharing and solicitation of feedback from various stakeholders: Winter 2019 – 2020
- Alternatives Analysis: Winter 2020
- Environmental Pre-Consultation: Winter 2020
ANTICIPATED:
- Public Meeting to present and solicit public input, followed by Public Comment Period: December 7, 2021
- MEPA Filing (if needed): Winter 2022
- Notice of Intent & Project Notification Form Filing: Spring 2022
- Final Design: 2022
- Final Design - Preconstruction Public Meeting: TBA
- Construction: anticipated in 2023-2025