FBRTC launches petition to extend trail to Downtown Franklin!

Connecting Our Trail To Our Community

FBRTC is collecting local support for revitalizing the economic and recreational opportunities for Downtown Franklin and the surrounding communities by connecting the 1.4-mile Franklin Industrial Track with easy, convenient access to the 22-mile SNETT rail trail!

A trailhead near Downtown Franklin, at Union Street and Cottage Street, will create a healthy opportunity for everyone to safely walk, bike and be active outdoors. The attraction of trail users to the Downtown Franklin area will benefit and rejuvenate the economic activities for restaurants and retailers, improving the overall value and vibrancy of our community.

Project updates:

  • With support of our state legislators, Franklin was able to secure $700,000 of state funding in FY23 for the trail extension. 
  • A feasibility study to assess the track conditions and best path forward is underway. Among the features being examined is the current and potential future ownership of the stretch.

Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Apparel Sale

The Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Committee (FBRTC) is a volunteer advocacy group working to develop and support the Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT). Help us support and create awareness for this valuable resource. Place your order for FBRTC custom branded apparel at the link below. Select your item, fill in your purchasing information and choose a shipping option.  Orders will be shipped to the group organizer (Bob Amrich) for distribution or can be  picked up at a monthly FBRTC meeting. Apparel can also be shipped directly to your address for an additional cost.  Apparel orders will be available approximately 2 weeks after the online sale ends on March 22.  We look forward to seeing you on the trail or around town with your new FBRTC branded apparel! Thanks for your support.

Online Store hosted by Custom Ink

2021 – Year in review

Another year with Covid-19 behind us. Benefits of outdoor recreation during these unprecedented times are bringing many people to the SNETT rail trail. We have seen many different uses of the trail throughout the year, such as walking, running, hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, dog walking, strolling with strollers, younger kids riding their scooters or tricycles, nature watching and nature photography. We love to see everyone enjoying the trail!

Please click this LINK to read our annual report.

We are looking forward to 2022 and to your continued support, whether you volunteer with us or support us financially by becoming a member or renewing your current membership.

See you on the trail or at one of our events!

The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

The Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Committee (FBRTC) is now accepting nominations to serve in leadership positions. Your help is critical at this time to maintain this great community resource.

What is the Mission?
The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee (FBRTC) is a volunteer advocacy group dedicated to the development, maintenance, and financial support of the Southern New England Rail Trail as a multi-use, universally accessible recreational path.

Here is what some of our volunteers say about being involved!

“I first got involved with the FBRTC to help develop the local rail trail and offer outdoor recreation opportunities for myself and my kids. What I received back was much more! Serving on the committee has connected me to neighbors and leaders in my community and has led to friendships both professionally and personally. I feel good giving back, and at the same time helping to create opportunities for people to improve their health and connect with nature.”
Marc (pictured front left helping to clear the Fox Run Rd section)
“I appreciate the work being done on the trail. While walking the Rail Trail: I especially treasure the serenity and fresh air, Walking with my grandchildren and dog, To feel like I’m in the woods but only a few yards away from civilization, The maps on the kiosks, The cleanness, safety, and surface and width of the trail.”
Tony (pictured left with Darren cleaning the drainage ditches on Lake St to Prospect St section)
“Not everybody can say that they are helping to build something permanent that will be utilized by Franklin, Bellingham and neighboring towns for the good health and happiness of all of our residents; but we can! When we achieve our goals, we can also say that we are leaving something really good for our children and grandchildren! Help us achieve our goals!
David (pictured left as a long time director of our road race, Dave has started the FBRTC and has worn many hats during his very productive tenure)

Being part of the committee helps ensure the benefits of the trail are there for you and others!

How You Can Help
The committee is charged with assembling a slate of nominees for President, Vice-President, Treasurer, and Secretary. Other positions and areas to serve are also available and determined by need on an annual basis. 

Any interested member is eligible to serve. Please complete the online form now to be contacted. Nominations must be received before January 10, 2022. You can also reach out to the committee directly to discuss getting involved at fbrtcommittee@gmail.com

While we hope that we are overwhelmed with nominations, we recognize that not everyone has the time to serve. FBRTC has always been a volunteer-based organization with multiple opportunities at a variety of levels. To that end, we would encourage you to fill out the interest form.

#snettphoto2021 – and the winners are…

Thank you to everyone who participated in our #snettphoto2021 contest.

The winner is Eileen Ridgway and her photo Spring in full bloom. Eileen wins $50 Think Franklin First gift card and free FBRTC membership for one year.

Eileen Ridgway: Spring in full bloom

Second place: Valerie Turk and her photo of Triad Bridge in Millville, MA.

Valerie Turk: Triad Bridge in Millville, MA

Third place: Michelle Delmonico and her photo of Chase on the trail walk.

Michelle Delmonico: Chase on the trail walk

Both second and third place also win a free one year FBRTC membership.

Congratulations to the winners and thank you all for participating.

All submission can be viewed here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/fbrtc/albums/72157719325371356/with/51238731386/