Northborough applies for MassTrails funding to study extension of Beewalt Trail toward Shrewsbury

Committee staff reported submitting a MassTrails grant application on Feb. 2 to pay for a feasibility study to extend the Beewalt (BWALT) multi‑use trail from its terminus at Otis Street and Route 9 through Northborough toward Nursery Drive and the Shrewsbury town line.

Laurie said the feasibility study would examine alignment alternatives, construction and long‑term maintenance costs and potential right‑of‑way connections. A consultant scope and cost estimate were obtained from Parr Corporation. Laurie noted the town of Westborough has secured funding to build a portion of the BWALT through an intersection improvement project and that the regional nature of the effort (support letters from Westborough, Shrewsbury and Friends of the BWAL) strengthens the MassTrails application.

Timeline and constraints: if funded, Laurie said she expects to hear from the funder in July or August and the study must be completed within the fiscal year (by June 2027). The study will also explore Mass Highway/MassDOT crossing options for Route 20 and possible direct connections to nearby developments (for example, Avalon) should property owners participate.

Why it matters: the extension would link local trail users to a larger regional network and could provide a safer alternative for cyclists and pedestrians than traveling along Route 9. The feasibility work would identify technical, property and cost barriers before design and construction phases.

Next steps: staff will await the MassTrails decision and, if funded, engage the consultant and regional partners to complete the study within the stated timeframe.