MAPC

Smart Growth & Regional Collaboration

The Bedford Narrow Gauge Trail follows the path of the nation’s first narrow gauge railroad. The historic railroad, which opened in 1877, ran between Bedford Depot to North Billerica and ferried passengers traveling to visit the famed Bedford Mineral Springs. Today, however, the trail is little used by residents due to issues of safety, visibility, and access.

The purpose of the Bedford Narrow Gauge Trail Project is to reestablish the trail as a central element of Bedford’s transportation system and address traffic flow and safety concerns around three street crossings along the trail (Loomis Street, Great Road, and Pine Hill Road).

In addition to piloting short-term infrastructural improvements at these key crossings, the project will result in community-driven artworks and other creative activations that draw attention to the need for enhanced bicycle infrastructure in Bedford, promote visibility and public awareness of the trail, and showcase the trail’s potential as a vital community resource.

For more information about the project, contact MAPC Senior Transportation Planner David Loutzenheiser, 617-933-0743

When this project is complete, what might be different in Bedford?

Improved safety and visibility at the NGT’s intersections with Loomis Street, Great Road, and Pine Hill Road.
Greater connectivity between the NGT and Minuteman Bikeway.
Increased awareness of the NGT among Bedford residents and visitors.
More opportunities to develop permanent bicycle infrastructure at key NGT intersections.
An enhanced sense of local pride and ownership of the NGT.
Momentum to develop an art walk along the NGT, in conjunction with larger planning efforts to increase public arts opportunities in Bedford.

Project Partners

This project is staffed by members of the Transportation and Arts and Culture departments at the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC). MAPC staff will be collaborating with town staff from the departments of Planning and Public Works, among others. Town committees including the Bicycle Advisory Committee, Bedford Trails Committee, Bedford Planning Board, Bedford Arts and Culture Working Group, and the Transportation Advisory Committee will also be key partners.

In addition, MAPC Arts and Culture staff will be working with community partners to develop creative activations at key intersections and to plan a project launch event in spring 2020.

How can I get involved?

Sign up for the project mailing list to receive updates, including advance notice of public meetings and the pilot project launch event in spring 2020.