For Immediate Release

Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2018

Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-428-3299
Email: ben@jgpr.net

Work Begins on Final Section of Rockland’s Rail Trail Project

ROCKLAND — Interim Town Administrator Marcia Birmingham and the Rockland Board of Selectmen are pleased to announce that construction on the final section of the Rockland Rail Trail has begun.

Rockland’s Highway Department began clearing brush and grading the path last week on the unfinished section of the Rail Trail, which goes from Howard Street to the Hanover town line.

The section of the trail, which stretches for more than two miles, will be paved allowing for a smooth walk or ride for those using the trail. The project is expected to be completed in the coming weeks, weather permitting.

On Aug. 20, the town of Rockland was awarded a $100,000 grant from the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) through its recreational trails grant program.

The town has received grant funding over the past three years from DCR in order to complete the project.

“Once this portion of the project is done, the entire rail trail in Rockland will be paved,” Interim Town Administrator Birmingham said. “The trail truly is a hidden gem that runs through the town from the Hanover town line into Abington. We are thankful to DCR for their efforts in helping to fund the project over the past three years.”

Last year, Rockland received a grant to pave a section of the trail from Plain Street to Monroe Street in Abington. In the fall of 2016, the trail was graded and paved from Howard Street to Plain Street.

“We have been extremely fortunate to receive this funding over the past three years and completing the trail has been a goal of the town for many years,” Selectman Chairman Larry Ryan said. “Hopefully once it is done, our residents and visitors will be able to enjoy this leg of the trail even more.”

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