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Northborough accepts $58,300 MassTrails grant for BWALT feasibility study
Summary
The Select Board voted to accept a $58,300 MassTrails grant to fund a feasibility study of a 1.3-mile segment of the Boston–Worcester Air Line Trail (BWALT) through Northborough; the town’s in-kind match (staff time and DPW efforts) of $15,331 and a prior $10,000 CPC contribution were noted.
The Northborough Select Board voted to accept grant funds of $58,300 from the Commonwealth’s MassTrails program to support a feasibility study for a 1.3-mile segment of the Boston–Worcester Air Line Trail (BWALT) within town limits, connecting the Westborough line toward the Shrewsbury line along Route 9/20. Town Administrator Stephanie Bacon explained the grant and said the Community Preservation Committee previously approved a $10,000 contribution; the remaining match ($15,331) will be in-kind from DPW personnel time and volunteers.
Scope and local impacts: The feasibility work will refine a proposed route, identify required easements, and inform future construction and permitting. The project is intended to link neighborhoods, shopping and commuter destinations and to support tourism and nonmotorized connectivity to the Westborough commuter rail station.
Vote: A motion to accept the grant and authorize the planning director to expend funds under M.G.L. c.44 §53A was moved and seconded; the board approved the action by roll call.
Next steps: The planning director will engage a consultant to complete the feasibility study and coordinate with neighboring towns on trail design and connectivity. Staff noted future decisions will be required regarding easements, potential bridge structures, and construction funding.
