Communities celebrate the official opening of the Borough Trail
By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter
Northborough – Just in time for the beautiful fall weather, a new regional trail is now officially open, ready for hikers (and in some parts, their four legged friends) to enjoy.
On Oct. 4, Priscilla Ryder, conservation officer for the city of Marlborough, welcomed dignitaries, elected officials and guests to the official grand opening of the Boroughs Loop Trail. The ceremony was held at the Stirrup Brook Trail Head adjacent to the upper parking lot of Algonquin Regional High School in Northborough.
Ryder noted that the trail, approximately 33 miles, will connect the “open space jewels of the four boroughs communities – Northborough, Marlborough, Southborough and Westborough.”
The Loop Trail links wooded walking trails, bike paths, aqueduct trails, and sidewalks. Hikers, walkers, and runners are welcome on all parts of the trail. Some sections will allow mountain biking and dog walking.
“This trail has been in the works since the idea was born about ten years ago and today it is ready for its grand debut,” she added.
She recognized elected officials in attendance, who included State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton), state representatives Carolyn Dykema (D- Holliston), Carmine Gentile (D-Sudbury), ,) Danielle Gregoire (D-Marlborough) and Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury).
“I am a big believer the SVT is a big believer that society is losing our connection to nature,” remarked Lisa Vernegaard, executive director, Sudbury Valley Trustees. “Having good safe trail networks is a way for people to get out on a glorious fall day to enjoy and get some tranquility…”
On the SVT’s website (www.svtweb.org/properties/page/boroughs-loop-trail) there is an interactive map for the entire trail as well as printable maps for four sections:
- Section 1, from Boundary Street in Marlborough/Northborough to Stevens Street in Marlborough
- Section 2, from Pourier Drive in Marlborough to Parmenter Street in Marlborough
- Section 3, from Parmenter Street in Marlborough to Main Street in Southborough
- Section 4, from Deerfoot Road in Southborough to Boundary Street in Marlborough/Northborough
Guided hikes will be held throughout October and November as well.
Photo/Melanie Petrucci
