New Haven and Northampton MANHAN Enhancements ApplicationTransportation Enhancements Application
1. Project Location and Descri tiow
Project Title: The Manhan Rail Trail - Northampton to Easthampton leg
Project Size: Eleven miles ( I 1 ) is the total length of the proposed Manhan Rail Trail project.
This application covers the four miles linking Northampton with Ferry Street in
Easthampton.
Project Location: (Include Streets, County and Municipalities)
The Manhan Rail Trail will be located in the Hampshire County communities of Northampton,
Southampton and Easthampton on existing Pioneer Valley Railroad and Massachusetts Electric
rights -of -way. The Trail follows the historic New Haven to Northampton Canal, which mainly
parallels US Route 10. The municipalities of Easthampton, Northampton and Southampton are the
sponsoring towns. A location map is included as Appendix "A ".
Enhancement Categon7
Primary Enhancement Cate on,: Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities
Enhancement projects are categorized by type for the purpose of ranking. The primary
enhancement category listed above serves to inform the manner in which the proposed project will
be evaluated.
Please check any other Enhancement Categories that are applicable to the project:
Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities - The Manhan Rail Trail Project (Rail Trail) will provide
citizens of the sponsoring communities the opportunity to walk or bicycle along
the rail corridor which was formerly operated by The Pioneer Valley Railroad.
Scenic and Historic Acquisitions - The Pioneer Valley Rail corridor goes through the scenic
Pioneer Valley which has many well known scenic attributes. Additionally, there
are cites of historical significance on the entire length of the rail, including a
canal which formerly serviced the communities with conunerce needs and at the
turn of the century. (Please see details in sections following.)
Scenic and Historic Highways
—�— Landscaping - The design for the Manhan Rail Trail project includes many items of
landscape architecture. The preliminary design includes architectural treatment
of many significant points of interest along the Manhan Rail Trail. (Please see
details in sections following.)
—�_ Historic Preservation - The Manhan Rail Trail project's preliminary design has enhanced the
preservation on the various historical attributes of the pioneer valley. (Please see
details in sections following)
_Restoration & Operation of Historic Transportation Facilities - The Manhan Rail Trail
project's preliminary design includes provisions which will restore the
abandoned rail corridor into a historical scenic passage with multiple
transportation uses.
Rail Trail Acquisition and Development - The Pioneer Valley Rail has been abandoned for
many years. The Manhan Rail Trail's preliminary plans are to acquire
ownership of the rail and develop the abandoned rail into a serene environment
for community use and enjoyment.
Billboard Control and Development
Archaeological Activities
Highway Runoff Mitigation
Project T,e.
Please note that if a project is applying for construction f Inds attachment must be completed.
C onstruction/Installation
Design/Engineering
Planning/Study
Acquisitions
Operations
Other
S
Project Description:
Provide a concise statement that summarizes the project. More expansive text should be included
in the formal proposal.
The communities propose to construct an eleven mile long regional multi -use trail along rail beds
now owned by the Pioneer Valley Railroad and rights -of -way owned by Massachusetts Electric
Company. This particular project phase will design the trail from a trail head in Northampton to a
key access point off Ferry Street in Easthampton. This will coincide with other design being done
along another utility easement extension (Northampton to Williamsburg). The Manhan Rail Trail
can be used as a commuting route connecting employment centers in Northampton, Easthampton,
Southampton, Westfield, and Holyoke. The corridor will also provide an important link to the town
centers of the aforementioned towns, thus enhancing economic development.
This trail will be an important piece in a regional bikeway system. It is currently planned to link
north to the popular Nonvottuck trail, and has the potential for linking south through Westfield and
Southwick to the Farmington Canal Trail, which extends the breadth of Connecticut to New Haven.
The route is the right of way of the former Northampton to New Haven canal, which was built in
the early 1800's. 'Hiis picturesque trail parallels the Manhan River, and provides scenic views of
Mount Tom. The potential links with existing open spaces and recreation facilities are shown in the
accompanying maps and described in the narrative.
Benefits: Briefly state how the project supports the eligible enhancement category and fidfrlls the
goals of both ISTEA and (lie needs of the Commonwealth. This should be complemented
by additional text.
The project wiII generate the necessary designs and engineering for the first leg of the Manhan Rail
Trail. The trail supports the Enhancement Category `Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities" through the
creation of a new trail which will be a key component of a large regional system. Additionally, the
project supports numerous other enhancement categories.
2. Protect construction/Implementation Schedule
Basic Designllmplementation:
Preliminary design is in progress and the planned implementation of the Mardian Rail Trail design
project is in 1996. The sponsoring communities will be ready to proceed with the project within
three (3) months of notification of project approval. The communities will draft a Request for
Proposals in the near future in order to implement the project as soon as possible.
Estimated completion date of project:
The Manhan Rail Trail project is projected to be completed by the end of calendar year 1996.
3. Financial Data
Federal dollars requested
State dollars requested
Applicant match (10% minimum)
Total Project cost
Project Cost Breakdown:
Planning and design
Land acquisition
Utility Relocation
Construction/Implementation
$48,240
$12,060
$6,700
567,000
$67,000
4. Background Information
Applicant (Grout). A.gencv. etc.) Name and Address:
Towns of Southampton and Easthampton, by and through their respective Boards of Selectmen, and
the City of Northampton by its mayor.
Contact person/Title: Stuart Beckley, Town Plainer
Telephone number: 529 -1406
Who will own and maintain the completed project?
The Towns of Easthampton and Northampton will own and maintain the project. The Communities
are currently discussing long -term maintenance with the Department of Environmental Management
and Massachusetts Electric Company.
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Is a maintenance /endowment agreement in place for the project?
Not at this time. The Parks and Recreation Department and Department of Public Works in the
respective towns are expected to receive responsibility and local funding for long- tern-t maintenance,
if the Department of Environmental Management is unable to manage the facility.
A non - profit organization ( "Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail ") will be established to coordinate and
fund long -term care and education programs regarding proper use of the Trail.
Regional Data To be completed by the RPA.
Priority number of the project.
Total number of projects submitted.
Total number of projects received.
% of total budget request that the project represents.
? . A
Enhancement Project Information Sheet
Part I
A. City /Town: Easthampton, Northampton, Southampton
B. Route /Street: ".oute 10, Lovefiel d Street, �'.oute 66
C. Fed. Aid Rte: US Toute 10
D. Project Type: Bicycle and Pedestrial Facilities
E. Estimated Cost: $67,000
F. Anticipated funding: $60.,300
G. Number of travel lanes and ADT: N/A
Part II.
A. Location description and estimated project limits by mile
marker and station. Ferry Street to Dnwntown No_rthar!ntnn, see
B. Scenic road? No MAP
C. Adequacy of existing Right of Way?
Probably adequate
Probably will require takings
X Probably will require easements and /or rights of entry
D. Anticipated federal and state environmental /historic
requirements.
X_ Probably will require a Request for Determination of
Applicability. (RDA)
X Probably will require a Notice of intent (NOI) /Order of
Conditions. (OOC)
Probably will require a Water Quality Certificate. (WQ)
X Probably will require State /Federal
historic /archeological review.
Probably will require Sate /Federal rare/ endangered
species review.
Probably will require hazardous materials review. (HAZ)
Probably will require a Chapter 91 Waterways permit.
(CH91)
Probably will require Mass. Coastal Zone Management
review. (CZM)
Probably will require an Environmental Notification Form.
(ENF)
_ Probably will require an Environmental Impact Report.
(EIR)
Probably will require a categorical exclusion checklist.
(CE)
Probably will require a 4F properties review. (4F)
Probably will require an Environmental assessment. (EA)
Probably will require a Finding of No Significant Impact.
(FONSI)
Probably will require an Environmental Impact" Statement.
(EIS)
Probably will require an Army Corps of, Engineers 404
permit (404)
Probably will require a Natl Pollutant Discharge Elim.
Sys. permit. (NPD)
Probably will require a U.S. Coast Guard permit. (CG)
E. Description of need for improvements.
Improvements will provide alternate route for commuters between Westfield and
Northampton. This will provide some decrease in air pollutants. Project will link existing
heavily used bicycle trails (Northampton and Norwottuck) with projects to south including
the Farmington Canal trail in Connecticut. The project will optimize a regional (north to i
south) bicycle /pedestrian system.. The improvements are needed to meet the recreational
demand while reducing the demand on the highway routes.
F. Is there any information regarding this project which may be
useful to the Technical Review Committee in making there
decision?
There is much technical and historical data available for review. The 1990 Route 10
Corridor Study (Pioneer Valley Planning Commission) identifies increasing traffic and the
need for controls and alternatives (see Appendix). The Regional Transportation Plan lists
the project. A document is enclosed in this application which describes the historical
significance of the route along the Northampton to New Haven Canal. Yale University is
currently hosting an exhibit about the Canal. The transportation, historical and
recreational benefits to the region (this is an effort by several communities) are great.
Documentation /Certification
The Town of Easthampton and City of Northampton hereby certify their ability and
willingness to assume full responsibility for the project, including bidding, project
oversight, review, and documentation. The municipalities further certify their ability to
provide maintenance for the project and the associated property.
Please refer to letters and resolutions of support from Chief Elected Officers in
Appenrlir.
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Project Narrative: Manhan Rail Trail
The Manhan Rail Trail was conceived and is being developed by the Easthampton,
Northampton, Southampton Bike Trail Advisory Committee. The goal of the Committee is
a trail running from the Southampton/Westfield town line to the center of Northampton.
Long -terra the Manhan Rail Trail will link the popular Norwottuck and Northampton trails
through Westfield and Southwick to the Farmington Canal trail in Connecticut.
The Manhan Rail Trail offers numerous benefits to the individual communities and to the
region. These are detailed below.
Transportation
The project will improve the regional transportation network around Route 10, Route 141,
and Route 66 by decreasing the number of daily vehicle trips. The Trail will be used as a
commuter route to and from the economic center of Northampton. Additionally, the trail
will pass in close proximity to the Easthampton Industrial Park. Easthampton currently
offers very limited school bus service; the trail will decrease the number of automobile trips
by parents to transport children to schools.
Please refer to Appendix D for information about Vehicular Trips along Route 10.
The bicycle network in the region will also be greatly improved by the Manhan Rail Trail.
The recently opened Norwottuck Rail Trail from Northampton to Amherst is one of the
area's most popular recreational attractions. The Manhan Rail Trail would expand that
facility and create the opportunity to link with the Farmington Canal Trail which runs the
breadth of the state of Connecticut. The Bike Committee conducted a public opinion
survey which showed an overwhelming support for the construction of the Rail Trail. Two
out of three respondents supported the use of local funds to move the project forward.
[The results of the survey are included as Appendix C.]
Economic Development
Northampton is recognized as the area's leading economic center; the Manhan Rail Trail
will draw more visitors to the Center. This is evidenced by the use and expansion of
commercial facilities along the Norwottuck Trail. The Town of Easthampton is in the third
year of a downtown revitalization process. The Manhan Rail Trail runs right through the
heart of Easthampton's Downtown. The increase in visitors will spark new commercial
growth in the business district where there is currently a very high vacancy and turnover
rate,
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The ISTEA Enhancements will augment other public and private investments in the
communities. Easthampton is funding improvements to Nashawannuck Pond, located in
the Center. A new walkway and fishing pier will be established. Funds are being sought
from the Small Cities Program and Public Works for Economic Development (PWED)
program to revitalize businesses and downtown infrastructure. Northampton continues to
improve its downtown and is looking to improve transportation to the former State
Hospital Site and new office park zoning district. The Manhan Rail Trail is linked to all of
these projects.
History
The route of the proposed Manhan Rail Trail follows the New Haven to Northampton
Canal which was constructed in the 1830's. The canal was used for fifteen years, then
abandoned for use as a railroad. Key features such as locks and other structures are still
evident along the route. A description of this historic resource is included as Appendix D.
In addition to the history of the route itself, the Trail will pass by other historic areas.
Industrial Mills in Easthampton and Northampton abut the trail, providing a glimpse of
boom years manufacturing buttons, felt and rubber suspenders. The Trail is near
Easthampton's historic Main Street District.
Recreation
One need only to review the use of the Norwottuck Trail in Northampton and Amherst to
understand the demand for expanded bicycle facilities in the Pioneer Valley. The Manhan
Rail Trail will offer recreational facilities including the Trail, educational areas, picnic
facilities, and parking areas. The link with an existing facility enhances the overall
recreational system.
The proposed Trail is adjacent to Massachusetts Audubon's Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary
(see letter of support). It passes several ball fields, and is very close to the Mt. Tom State
Reservation, Easthampton's Nonotuck Park, Nashawannuck Pond, Northampton State
Hospital Lands and the fields of Smith College, as well as smaller local parks and open
spaces. The Manhan Rail Trail will be an important part of a regional greenbelt system.
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Visual Information
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Criteria Information
1. The project is eligible under the Enhance Category of provision of facilities for
pedestrians and bicycles.
General Merit Criteria
Significance: This project is extremely important to the region and to the individual
communities. It will improve the transportation and recreational systems, while
contributing to the continued efforts to improve economic development. The project will
protect the right -of -way resource for public use. The project itself AND the accompanying
multiplier effects will greatly improve the quality of life of residents, employees, and
visitors of the region. The project is listed in the Regional Transportation Plan,
Quality: The project is based on existing rail and utility rights -of -way. It will be therefore
relatively easy to design using state bicycle design standards. The Towns and Advisory
Committee have a realistic view of implementation of the Manhan Rail Trail. This
Enhancements application is only the first of several phases to completion.
Cost Effectiveness: This application asks solely for design and engineering funds for a key
stretch of the Manhan Rail Trail. Having designs in hands will allow the communities to
move forward in pursuit of other funding sources for construction. The investment of
$67,000 for design will ultimately lead to the development of a 3 or 4 million dollar project.
Accessibility: The project will have numerous access points including areas from which the
surrounding landscape and features can be reached by the public. In Easthampton, for
example, it is hoped that there will be a link (museum or tour) that allows visitors to leave
the Trail and visit the historic mills. The project will be available to many uses: biking,
walking, exercise, horseback riding, and snowmobilers. This is based on the needs
identified in the survey. The design of the trail will be key in gathering public input about
the ultimate use of the facility.
Multiple categories: The project is also eligible under acquisition of scenic easements,
landscaping, historic preservation, rehabilitation of historic transportation facilities and
preservation of abandoned railway corridors.
Implementation: THE PROJECT IS READY TO IMPLEMENT. The municipalities
commit to being ready to proceed with the design within 3 months of notification of
enhancements approval. Documentation such as RFPs will be prepared in anticipation of
notification to increase the ability to implement in a timely way.
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Resolution
I MOVE THAT THE TOWN OF EASTHAMPTON, ACTING BY AND THROUGH
THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN, APPROVE THE SUBMISSION OF AN
APPLICATION FOR ISTEA GRANT FUNDS IN ORDER TO FINANCE THE
ACQUISITION OF AN ELEVEN MILE STRETCH OF RAILBED AND FOR THE
DESIGN OF THE SECTION OF NORTHAMPTON TO EASTHAMPTON. AS A
BOARD, WE SUPPORT THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE MANHAN
RAIL TRAIL. THE TOWN HAS SHOWN ITS SUPPORT AND WILL TAKE UP THE
MATTER OF FUNDING ATIK��k
A FUTURE TOWN MEETING.
RESOLUTION PASSED WITH A VOTE OF 4 -0 AT THE APRIL 26, 1995
MEETING OF THE EASTHAMPTON SELECTBOARD.
Sincerelv,
�t e� G. riis airperson
Easthampton lect Board
Mary L. Ford
Mayor
CITY OF NORTHAMPTON
MASSACHUSETTS
CITY HALL
210 Main Street
Northampton, MA 01060
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
(413) 586 -6950
FAX: (413) 586 -3726
April 25, 1995
Enhancements Steering Committee
Bureau of Transportation Planning and Development
Executive Office of Transportation and Construction
10 Park Plaza
Boston, MA 02116 -3969
RE: Northampton -- Easthampton Rail- Trail -- ISTEA Enhancements Application
Dear Steering Committee Members:
I would like to lend my strong support for the joint Northampton- Easthampton enhancements
application for new rail trail from Northampton to Easthampton. The city is committed to the
project and to meeting our share of the local match for the project.
I am very excited about this project. This linkage is unique among area rail trails because it
extends right to the edge of our respective downtowns. As a result, in addition to recreational
uses it will provide an excellent opportunity for the many commuters between the two
communities. This trail is part of a rail -trail network that, by the turn of the century, will link
Northampton with Southhampton, Easthampton, Williamsburg, Hadley, Amherst, and
Belchertown.
I urge your support for this application so that we can complete the final surveying and design
during federal fiscal year 1996.
Sincerely,
M Mary L. Ford
F __
_.
t.j Printed on rerycfed paper.