Pictured with Westfield’s Public Works Project of the Year Award in Atlanta are, from left, American Public Works Association CEO Scott Grayson, project manager Greg Russell from VHB, acting Public Works Superintendent Francis Cain, City Engineer Allison McMordie, Mayor Michael McCabe, VHB senior engineer Christine Champeau and Gary Losier, president of APWA.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
WESTFIELD — After 11 years of hard work completing the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail, the city of Westfield has received the American Public Works Association’s 2024 Public Works Project of the Year Award. The award recognizes the work done by managers and contractors on publicly developed, owned and maintained infrastructure projects.
“The city is incredibly honored and excited to receive this award for the beloved Columbia Greenway Rail Trail,” said Allison McMordie, city engineer for Westfield. “This recognition validates the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the project, from the initial planning stages to the final implementation. It highlights the city’s commitment to enhancing its infrastructure while preserving its rich historical heritage and serving the community’s needs.”
The award, received in the historical restoration and preservation category for projects of more than $5 million but less than $25 million, highlights the historical significance of the route along the former New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad, a transportation corridor for over 200 years. The project began in 2012 and was completed in 2023.
The trail runs from the former railroad bridge over the Westfield River — now a pedestrian bridge — along an embankment through downtown Westfield all the way to the Southwick town line, where it meets a network of rail trails that stretches deep into Connecticut.
“We believe [the trail] stands out due to its blend of historical preservation, modern design, and community benefits. The trail not only revitalizes a key historical corridor but also addresses contemporary needs for transportation, recreation, and environmental sustainability,” said McMordie. “Its elevated design and integration of historical elements with cutting-edge infrastructure make it a distinctive and forward-thinking project. Ultimately, while every project is valuable and impactful in its own right, the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail’s multifaceted approach and comprehensive benefits position it as a remarkable example of what public works can achieve.”
“The award also underscores the importance of the city of Westfield and our organization to maintain and enforce safety for this multi-use path that took 14 years to complete,” added Carmel T. Steger, chair of the Friends of the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail. “We hope it will bring more of an influx of riders and people using it who see downtown Westfield as a thriving center and boost consumer spending.”
According to McMordie, in addition to being a “vital transportation link” between Westfield and Southwick, it also adds to the larger New Haven and Northampton Canal Greenway.
“This connectivity not only supports local businesses but also encourages tourism and economic activity,” said McMordie. “Moreover, it provides a safe, scenic space for physical activity, contributing positively to public health and well-being.”
The 3.1-mile trail also serves as a model for sustainable urban development, how to revitalize something older and weave it into the fabric of modern life.
“It integrates modern infrastructure with historic elements, featuring nine bridges, six new and three rehabilitated truss bridges, and a tunnel. This thoughtful design not only maintains the area’s historical charm but also meets contemporary transportation and recreational needs,” noted McMordie. “It transforms underutilized and partially abandoned spaces into a vibrant, multi-use pathway that promotes active transportation and recreation. Additionally, the permeable parking lot and landscaping reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship.”
Although the trail itself is considered complete, there are tentative plans to extend the trail to meet other rail trails to the north. A Massachusetts Department of Transportation project currently in the design phase would build a 3.5-mile addition to the Manhan Rail Trail in Easthampton to reach Route 10 at Brickyard Road in Southampton, reducing the gap between the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail and the rail trail network in Hampshire County.
“Amenities will be added as they have been in our previous projects. Our goal is to make the rail trail as seamless as possible, making the network seem as if it is all one,” said McMordie. “We understand that these amenities are well used and loved, so we will ensure that we meet the desires of our community.”
“Once the levee trails are completed in 2025, we will have trails close to many of the neighborhoods in downtown Westfield, which helps us be less auto-centric in our daily commutes,” added Steger. “We’ve been proud of all our city officials and our organization have done and we’ll continue our advocacy to blaze new trails for a bicycle and pedestrian-friendly Westfield.”
“In essence, the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail is a testament to how historical preservation can seamlessly integrate with modern infrastructure, creating a space that serves both practical and cultural purposes,” noted McMordie. “Its unique combination of historical significance, innovative design, and community benefits makes it a standout project deserving of recognition.”
