EASTHAMPTON — A scenic staple in Easthampton will receive a facelift after the city was awarded a $500,000 MassTrails grant on June 24 to fund repairs to the Manhan Rail Trail.
The MassTrails program provides matching grants to support the design, construction, improvement and maintenance of shared-use paths and recreational trails across Massachusetts.
In Easthampton, the Manhan Rail Trail occupies a former railroad corridor that once served the city’s mills and industries. After rail service ended in 1992, the city acquired the corridor and converted it into a recreational trail, which opened in 2004.
Easthampton’s Department of Public Works Director Greg Nuttelman explained that the most important maintenance issues along the Easthampton section of the trail are “declining large trees throughout the corridor and aging asphalt that is cracking and heaving causing trip hazards.”
“The project will remove hazardous trees and roots that are causing unsafe surface conditions on the trail,” said Nuttelman. “It will closely resemble the work that was completed last summer, which included point-to-point pavement repairs, root barrier installation and pavement crack sealing.”
Nuttelman said the repairs will improve trail safety and accessibility by fixing damaged pavement and uneven surfaces. The work will help reduce fall risks and create a safer experience for all trail users.
He also explained that this grant-funded project will help maintain the trail’s condition as the city Trail Maintenance and Repairs transitions from a volunteer-run group to a city department and ensures the trail is ready for the change in management.
Construction is expected to begin in late fall or early spring and must be completed by June 30, 2027. During the project, sections of the trail will be closed, with most closures occurring between Ferry Street and Route 5/East Street.
The grant Easthampton received is part of $7.6 million that was awarded through the MassTrails program.
This year’s program is funding trail projects in 38 municipalities and is contributing to statewide efforts to improve trail networks. According to a press release sent to Reminder Publishing, the program funds the efforts of municipalities, public entities, non-profit organizations and Native communities. Trails receiving funding are used for a variety of activities, including hiking, running, cycling, skiing, horseback riding and off-road vehicle use.
“Each Massachusetts community is home to at least one public trail that gets residents outside and brings in visitors that help support small businesses,” said Gov. Maura Healey. “These grants will help improve and expand access to trails across our state so more people can enjoy the outdoors, stay active and explore new places. We’re proud to invest in projects that strengthen local communities and support our economy.”
