huisman - Public Comment_ Support for Trail Expansion in Northampton.pdf11/1/23, 1:11 PM City of Northampton Mail - Public Comment: Support for Trail Expansion in Northampton
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/1/?ik=fec0f72d97&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f:1781381712208338987%7Cmsg-f:1781381712208338987&…1/1
Sarah LaValley <slavalley@northamptonma.gov>
Public Comment: Support for Trail Expansion in Northampton
1 message
Elena Huisman <huisman.elena@gmail.com>Wed, Nov 1, 2023 at 12:59 PM
To: slavalley@northamptonma.gov
Dear Ms. LaValley
I am writing to share my support for the Planning Office's applications to the Community Preservation Committee that
expand our trail network in Northampton. As an avid bicyclist, environmental scientist, Board member of the Friends of
Northampton Trails, and millenial I feel strongly that building out these trails will increase outdoor access and encourage
people to walk or bike as their primary form of transportation, rather than drive.
The three projects:
Design funding for making the trail entrance at former Moose lodge at Broad Brook Greenway universally
accessible to the Beaver Marsh
Rocky Hill Shared Use Path Construction Admin (liaison with MassDot engineers)
CT River Greenway design to fund the 25% design for the shared use path from CT River Park to Hatfield
When completed, these extensions of multi-use trails will add critically needed connections to open space and existing
neighborhoods and move us closer to developing a trail network that can increase active mobility and reduce our reliance
on cars in this moment of climate crisis.The trails will benefit students, residents and workers who will walk and ride bikes
safely to schools, jobs and errands; the general public’s access to conservation areas; visitors to the city who will more
readily explore and enjoy more of the city’s trails and conservation areas.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Elena Huisman
Florence Resident, Friends of Northampton Trails Board Member