Town of Dover Receives Over $184,000 MassTrails Grant

DOVER –  The Town of Dover is pleased to share that it has received a $184,760 grant from the MassTrails grant program, funded by the Healey-Driscoll administration.

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, nonprofits and other public entities.

The grant of $184,760 will be used for the design, engineering and permitting of a potential recreational trail and shared-use pathway project in Dover. The project aims to improve community connectivity and encourage healthier lifestyles by promoting outdoor recreation. Over the next few months, town departments and committees will work together to create a comprehensive plan for the design of the rail trail. This design will be presented to the town with an opportunity for public feedback before the project proceeds further.

“We are excited to collaborate with all stakeholders to explore the possibility of enhancing Dover’s recreational infrastructure through the development of the Dover Rail Trail project,” said Parks and Recreation Director Mark Ghiloni. 

Dover Town Planner, Jasmin Farinacci, who has been working diligently to identify and secure this grant funding, expressed her gratitude to the Healy-Driscoll administration by stating, “On behalf of the Town of Dover, I would like to thank the Healey-Driscoll administration for providing us with the funding to improve the Dover Secondary Branch Railroad Right-of-Way.”

Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll said in a statement that the MassTrails program “enhances connectivity and invites exploration and appreciation of the diverse resources that define Massachusetts. ”Tepper said each mile of trail “represents a step toward reducing our carbon footprint and preserving our natural resources.”

Future updates on the Rail Trail project can be found on the Town of Dover’s website. 

If residents have questions, they are encouraged to reach out to Recreation Director Mark Ghiloni at mghiloni@doverma.gov.

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