WESTBOROUGH – Between Lyman and East Main streets is a reminder of what once was.
A path threads between the two busy roadways. A century ago, this path was part of the Boston and Worcester Air Line Trail, or BWALT.
Near the Lyman Street entrance, there’s a kiosk with an old map and photos. Nearby, a small section of track reminds visitors of the path’s original purpose.
Over the next 10 years or so, the town plans to convert the BWALT into a multi-use path.
The trail began as part of the Boston and Worcester Street Railway, an electric trolley that opened in 1903. It closed in 1932, when the trolley made way for bus service on Turnpike Road (Route 9).
Most of the right-of-way is still intact.
The majority of the BWALT trails are between Route 9 and the current MBTA Commuter Rail line. One trail would go along Lyman Street, near Lake Chauncy.
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Once completed, the paths will offer connections to existing trails in Shrewsbury, Southborough and Framingham.
These shared-use paths will accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists, and offer amenities such as benches and drinking fountains.
Some parts, like the path between Lyman and East Main, are being used. Other segments await easements, design plans and funding from various sources.
BWALT, which mostly lies between routes 9 and 30, has been divided into six sections. The town’s Planning Department recently presented an update on the various sections.
Section 1 stretches from the Northborough line to Sassacus Drive. Final design is under way.
The Planning Department is obtaining easements for this section, and the town’s conservation director is developing recommendations for the Hocomonco Pond area. Funding will be provided by MassWorks, Complete Streets, the American Rescue Plan Act and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.
Section 2 goes from Sassacus Drive to Park Street, and a 25% design plan funded by MassTrails grant program and town matching funds. Design work will begin once a contract is in place.
An information meeting for Section 2 will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 6 p.m. To RSVP, go to https://www.westboroughma.gov/1289/Public-Info-Meetings
Section 3 goes from Park Street to East Main Street. There is an existing trail section between East Main and Lyman streets.
Section 4 runs from East Main to West Park Drive. There has been no significant progress, but the former right-of-way is in good condition.
Section 5 is located between West Park Drive to the Southborough line. The trail segment along West Park Drive is scheduled to be completed in summer 2024.
Section 6 runs along Lyman Street, and the town is in the process of seeking easements.
For information and updates, visit https://www.westboroughma.gov/1082/Boston-Worcester-Airline-Trail-BWALT
