Mattapoisett Rail Trail

Mattapoisett , MA
info@mattapoisettrailtrail.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When did planning start? Planning for the Mattapoisett Rail Trail began in 1996.

What is complete to date? One mile, Phase 1A, which connects to Fairhaven's Pheonix Bike path opened in 2010.

What is the current status? After much work, many discussions, plan revisions and compromises Phase 1B with its two bridges, 800 foot boardwalk and beachside trail is in line for construction funding in 2011. This section of the trail promises to be the jewel of the South Coast Rail Trail system, passing through a scenic, historic, and environmentally senstive landscape. 25% design submission is in review with Mass DOT. A public hearing should occur Summer 2010. Old Colony Vocational Students will be widening the Bridge over Mattapoisett River Fall 2010. We hope construction will start summer 2011.

1 ) Where is Bike Path parking?

Designated off road parking is .4 miles south of the path off Mattapoisett Neck Road at the Old Town Landing. (see map on cover) Please reserve unmarked pull off space adjacent to the path at Old Brandt Island Road for people with disabilities, infirmities, and for parents with small children. See Map

2) How much money was spent on Phase 1A?

To date approximately $673,000 has been spent. Of that $68,000 came from the Town and $605,000 came from the State/Federal.

3) How much money will Phase 1 cost?

Total costs should be 2.09 Million. Deisign and permitting should cost $140,000.00. Construction should cost $1,950,000.00 The costs for this mile are high due to the 2 bridges, 800 foot boardwalk and special requirements in this environmentally sensitive area. Learn More

4) What is the status of the YMCA right of way?

The right of way is agreed. Activities leading to its finalization are underway at this time.

5) How will bike path maintenance be paid?

Annual maintenance costs will be minimized through volunteers and in-kind donations. Mowing will remain a Town responsibility. The Friends hope to start an annual bike challenge to build up a maintenance fund.

6) What is the Phase 2a & b right of way status?

Discussions with the Mattapoisett Housing Authority have been finalized. Additional discussions with other property owners are expected over the summer and fall. The Bay Club has already given land and widened the road needed to complete the path abutting their property.

7)Where will Phase 2 cross Route 6?

From Depot St. parking lot, plans call for the path to go up Main St., cross Rte 6 at the traffic light, continue up Cathaway Lane, and left on Acushnet Rd, where it will join the Right of way. Alternate routes may be explored during design.

8) Where does funding come from?

A state/federal program (ISTEA) for alternative transportation pays 90% costs. By this law, a small percentage of all federal dollars spent on highway construction must be used on projects like ours. It can’t be spent on other projects.

Web Hosting by Yahoo!

Mattapoisett , MA
info@mattapoisettrailtrail.com