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Image capture 2024 Google Images. Using Google Maps, Westwood Minute draws a blue line to show a hypothetical path of a Dover Greenway that could connect existing rail trails in Needham and Medfield.
9-23-2024 10:50pm
Town of Dover Announces Planning Phases of a Dover Rail Trail Project
Darlene Cancell
Editor
The Town of Dover has announced anticipated dates of a project timeline for a Dover Greenway – a recreational trail and shared-use pathway project, that would convert an approximate 3.5 mile portion of the MBTA’s former Bay Colony Rail Line into a publicly owned multi-use corridor for bicycle, pedestrian, and other non-motorized public transportation and recreation. The project is being spurred on by a recent MassTrails grant award this summer of almost $185,000.
The town has noted that community feedback will be accepted along the way. Planning steps will take place in three phases:
Phase 1 – Planning and Design (October 2024-April 2025)
- Plan and design of a trail beginning in October
- Develop a preliminary trail layout design
- Present a final design to the community for feedback, when a design is finished in April 2025
Phase 2 – Cost Estimation and Funding (Spring 2025)
- Beginning in Spring 2025, develop a detailed cost estimate that includes construction, materials, labor and future maintenance costs
- Identify funding sources, including government grants and public-private partnerships
- Prepare a finalized budget
Phase 3: Final Planning and Approval (Fall 2025)
- A working group to clearly outline complete construction project plans to be presented to Dover residents for approval at Town Meeting in fall 2025
The Town of Dover notes that the goal is to develop a recreational and shared-used pathway that encourages community connectivity and provides residents with safer, healthier, outdoor recreation.
A Dover rail trail on the old Bay Colony line could potentially connect the existing Needham Rail Trail with the Medfield Rail Trail.
