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Bike-Walk Alliance of NH ==
Salem-Manchester rail trail support on the rise
The Salem rail trail committee working under the Conservation Commission includes two members from the BWA-NH and GSW, Dave Topham and Linda Harvey. With the engineering firm of VHB now contracted to start work on this project, there will be many public hearings this fall with both residential and commercial property owners expected to voice their opinions and complaints. Typically a project like this prompts the "NIMBY" response: "Not In My Back Yard." However, similar projects around the county which faced the same resistance in the first phase of construction were completed with the original objectors applauding the results. The improved appearance of the landscape, better self-regulating security, higher property values, and more business opportunities provided property owners with better benefits they never anticipated. With the Letter of Agreement from NH DOT and DRED in hand, work can start on the long-discussed Salem end of the Manchester to Salem rail trail.
Meanwhile, work on the Route 111 By-Pass is nearing completion. A new bridge is in place for the Windham Rail Trail to go over the new road allowing the trail to reach the Salem town line at the old Route 111 and the connection point to the Salem trail. We can't wait to see this rail trail project completed to Salem. This may be completed next year if private funding allows. To view a dozen photos of the Rt. 111 By-Pass project including the unfinished bridge and the Windham Rail Trail leading up to it, click here. These photos were taken August 5, 2007 by Dave Topham.
For more information about the Windham Rail Trail Alliance, please check their web site http://www.windhamrailtrail.org. For info and some photos about the Windham section of the Salem-Manchester trail, click here. For photos taken by GSW member Dale Knapschaefer, please click here.
In September, the Town of Derry took action to extend the rail trail along an undeveloped section of the old rail bed in the downtown area, close to the Municpal Building on Manning Street. This will be a road with a bike-ped trail on the side as installed in other areas. Additional support to connect the Derry section to the existing Windham Rail Rail was very strong. To keep the momentum going, BWA's Erich Whitney created the Derry Rail Trail Alliance. Please see the new DRTA web site http://www.derryrailtrail.org for the latest news.
BWA-NH is working with local residents, GSW members, WRTA, DRTA, contractors, town officials, and NH DOT in an effort to keep these projects moving ahead. There will be obstacles to overcome, but with enough people behind the project solutions will be found.
