Williams River Trail
There is an abandoned railroad bed that runs from West Stockbridge to Housatonic on the east side of the Williams River. It is accessible from Housatonic and many people use it up to where it crosses Rte 41 by the north end of Pixley Hill Rd. It is not used from the North end where it leaves West Stockbridge because the bridge across the river was taken out years ago. National Grid owns the property and we have heard is interested in selling. The trail is a beautiful linear property that needs to be put in the hands of some public entity that can improve and maintain the trail for public use.
Team
Jay Elling, Peter and Sarah Thorne make up the team that have cleared the trail from town south to where it crosses Rte. 41. The Bike and Board shop in G.B. are very supportive.
Objectives
Last year Peter spent some time clearing the trail from town south. We need to burn the piles of brush that are either side of the trail. The trail needs more clearing, some filling in and some drainage work to make easier to navigate for pedestrians. In the future, owning the trail and making it handicapped accessible is very important. Having a way to travel from West Stockbridge to Housatonic and not take Rte. 41 will be huge!
Project Details
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In a perfect world having two communities to the north and to the south of the trail would allow us to tap many people who would help build and maintain the trail. The biking community has had some events on the trail and are key supporters. The Williams River Trail Committee existed in the 90’s and needs to be brought back to life, Tom Norton was a key contribution.
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Timeline
TBD
Benefits
An alternative to Rte. 41. Getting folks out in nature. Handicapped accessible. Bringing people to a town park at the old Sportsmen’s Club. A connection to other trails being planned in the county. Hunting and fishing. Snowmobile riding. Skiing, roller blading etc.
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Risks
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The abutters have got to be brought on board. The stone crushing plant is a hurdle. The bridge has to be rebuilt.
There is an abandoned railroad bed that runs from West Stockbridge to Housatonic on the east side of the Williams River. Having a way to travel from West Stockbridge to Housatonic and not take Rte. 41 will be huge!
