Hey everyone! We will be at Beaver Pond next weekend for the Franklin Recreation Department’s 2024 Earth Day event. Stop on by and say hello while you are picking up your supplies.
FBRTC will be at Beaver Pond on April 20
FBRTC is searching for 5k volunteers
Greetings Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail community. The FBRTC is looking for volunteers to help the morning of May 18, 2024 for our annual 5k fundraiser. Our partners at Tri-Valley Front Runners will be leading the event, but need assistance in the following areas:
- Parking
- Greeting/Direction
- Raffle Tent
- Registration / Bib Pick Up / Check In
- Road Crew
- Water Stop / Turn Around Spot
- Timing / Start / Finish / Results / Awards
We need volunteers at different times of the morning, from setting up the event starting around 8:00 AM, to supporting the race at 9:00 AM, to breaking down the event starting at 10:00 AM.
If you can help out at all, please sign up below.
Volunteer Sign Up
Registration is open for the FBRTC 5k
Less than two months until our 5k on the SNETT. Sign up today!
https://www.tri-valleyfrontrunners.com/fbrtc/FBRTC5K.php
FBRTC & DCR meet to discuss Wadsworth Village in Franklin
Last month, FBRTC members met with DCR officials at the Spring Street trailhead to discuss opportunities to highlight the Wadsworth Village history and possible rest area.
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
The FBRTC advocates for the SNETT extension into downtown Franklin
Last month, FBRTC President Cobi Frongillo met with Congressman Auchincloss and Franklin town officials at the Grove Street trailhead to discuss the Industrial Track extension. The FBRTC is advocating for the SNETT extension into downtown Franklin utilizing an abandoned CSX line.
FBRTC 5K Road Race announced for May 18
We are happy to announce that the FBRTC is partnering again with the Tri-Valley Front Runners for our annual FBRTC 5K Road Race and Walk. The race is scheduled for May 18, 2024, and will be at the Grove Street trailhead. Race Registration can be found at the link below.
New RRFBs installed at the Grove Street trailhead
New Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) are now installed at the Grove Street trailhead. These signs are similar to what were installed at the Center Street trailhead, and should increase pedestrian safety. The FBRTC is also working to get similar RRFBs installed at the Lake Street trailhead.
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.
SNETT Makeover In Bellingham
SNETT rail trail in Bellingham between Center Street and Main Street (Rt 126 overpass) is getting a new coat!
More information can be found here: https://www.bellinghambulletin.com/2022/07/29/407194/mass-dep-working-to-improve-1-2-mile-segment-of-snett
