Administration announces $12M in grants for trail improvement projects

The Healey-Driscoll administration has announced $12 million in funding to support 65 trail improvement projects across Massachusetts.

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.

Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper, Department of Conservation and Recreation Commissioner Brian Arrigo, and local elected officials gathered in downtown Holliston on June 21 to announce the grants, which will bolster community and recreational trail networks — supporting the creation of new multi-use trails, enhancing accessibility, establishing connections between cities and towns, constructing boardwalks and bridges, implementing signage, and expanding trail corridors across the state.

“With increased access to outdoor recreation, we are enabling our residents to immerse themselves in nature and choose sustainable transportation options,” said Gov. Maura Healey in a prepared statement.

Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll said 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.”

Arrigo, a former mayor of Revere, said trails connect communities, “providing essential opportunities for outdoor recreation, tourism and economic growth.” He said the MassTrails grant program “underscores our dedication to shared stewardship with our municipal partners.”

MassTrails funds support recreational trails accommodating a wide range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, paddling, snowmobiling, and recreational off-highway vehicle riding.

This year’s MassTrails grant projects will impact the following communities: Amherst, Andover, Ashfield, Athol, Barnstable, Belchertown, Berlin, Billerica, Blandford, Canton, Chester, Clinton, Concord, Dennis, Dover, East Longmeadow, Easthampton, Edgartown, Erving, Everett, Fall River, Fitchburg, Framingham, Gardner, Great Barrington, Hancock, Hardwick, Harwich, Hawley, Holden, Holliston, Housatonic, Hubbardston, Lanesborough, Lawrence, Lenox, Lynnfield, Malden, Marblehead, Mattapoisett, Methuen, Monterey, North Adams, Northampton, Otis, Peabody, Pittsfield, Rutland, Salisbury, Sandisfield, Sandwich, Savoy, Somerville, Sturbridge, Sudbury, Taunton, Templeton, Tolland, Ware, Washington, Westport, West Springfield, Williamstown, Windsor, Winchendon, Worcester, and Yarmouth.