Deerfield-Montague Bikeway: Transforming Historic Railroad Infrastructure
The development of the Franklin County Bikeway represents a strategic effort to repurpose abandoned industrial corridors into accessible public recreation spaces. A primary focus of this initiative is Project 604128, which facilitates the construction of the Deerfield-Montague Bike Trail, converting former railroad rights-of-way into a modern transit path.
Project Scope and Route
Originally part of a larger initiative (Project #602958) advertised in August 2003, the current phase of the bikeway project focuses on a specific segment in Montague. The trail begins at McClelland Farm Road and extends northward for approximately 1.3 miles, following the path of an abandoned railroad right-of-way before terminating at Montague City Road.
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The Connecticut River Crossing
A central feature of this project is the modification of a former railroad bridge spanning the Connecticut River. This structure, a three-span wood trestle, is being adapted from its original industrial purpose into a dedicated bikeway bridge, ensuring connectivity across the waterway.
Historic Preservation Standards
Because the project involves historic infrastructure, MassHighway must adhere to strict eligibility criteria regarding the National Register of Historic Places (the official list of the Nation's historic places worthy of preservation). To be included in the protected list, MassHighway must provide evidence that a bridge has been individually listed or found eligible for individual listing.
It is important to note a distinction in preservation status: bridges that are merely contributing elements within a listed historic district, but lack the specific characteristics required for individual listing, are not included in this specific registry.
Key Facts
- Project Number: 604128 (Deerfield-Montague Bike Trail Construction).
- Total Distance: Approximately 1.3 miles.
- Route: From McClelland Farm Road to Montague City Road.
- Key Structure: A three-span wood trestle bridge over the Connecticut River.
- Preservation Authority: MassHighway, following National Register of Historic Places guidelines.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Franklin County (Montague) |
| Trail Length | ~1.3 Miles |
| Infrastructure Type | Abandoned railroad right-of-way |
| Bridge Type | Three-span wood trestle |
| Original Project Ref | Project #602958 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Deerfield-Montague Bike Trail begin and end?
The trail starts at McClelland Farm Road and continues north to terminate at Montague City Road.
What is the total length of this project phase?
This specific phase of the bikeway construction covers a distance of approximately 1.3 miles.
What happens to the old railroad bridge over the Connecticut River?
The three-span wood trestle bridge is being modified to serve as a bikeway bridge.
How does MassHighway determine if a bridge is historically significant?
MassHighway requires evidence that the bridge is individually listed in, or eligible for listing in, the National Register of Historic Places.
Are all bridges in a historic district automatically included in the list?
No. Bridges that are contributing elements of a district but do not possess characteristics qualifying them for individual listing are not included.