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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
The Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Committee (FBRTC) is now accepting nominations to serve in leadership positions. Your help is critical at this time to maintain this great community resource.
What is the Mission? The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee (FBRTC) is a volunteer advocacy group dedicated to the development, maintenance, and financial support of the Southern New England Rail Trail as a multi-use, universally accessible recreational path.
Here is what some of our volunteers say about being involved!
“I first got involved with the FBRTC to help develop the local rail trail and offer outdoor recreation opportunities for myself and my kids. What I received back was much more! Serving on the committee has connected me to neighbors and leaders in my community and has led to friendships both professionally and personally. I feel good giving back, and at the same time helping to create opportunities for people to improve their health and connect with nature.” – Marc(pictured front left helping to clear the Fox Run Rd section)
“I appreciate the work being done on the trail. While walking the Rail Trail: I especially treasure the serenity and fresh air, Walking with my grandchildren and dog, To feel like I’m in the woods but only a few yards away from civilization, The maps on the kiosks, The cleanness, safety, and surface and width of the trail.” – Tony(pictured left with Darren cleaning the drainage ditches on Lake St to Prospect St section)
“Not everybody can say that they are helping to build something permanent that will be utilized by Franklin, Bellingham and neighboring towns for the good health and happiness of all of our residents; but we can! When we achieve our goals, we can also say that we are leaving something really good for our children and grandchildren! Help us achieve our goals! – David (pictured left as a long time director of our road race, Dave has started the FBRTC and has worn many hats during his very productive tenure)
Being part of the committee helps ensure the benefits of the trail are there for you and others!
How You Can Help The committee is charged with assembling a slate of nominees for President, Vice-President, Treasurer, and Secretary. Other positions and areas to serve are also available and determined by need on an annual basis.
Any interested member is eligible to serve. Please complete the online form now to be contacted. Nominations must be received before January 10, 2022. You can also reach out to the committee directly to discuss getting involved at fbrtcommittee@gmail.com
While we hope that we are overwhelmed with nominations, we recognize that not everyone has the time to serve. FBRTC has always been a volunteer-based organization with multiple opportunities at a variety of levels. To that end, we would encourage you to fill out the interest form.
