On December 27th, Senator Ryan Fattman and Representative Michael Soter announced that the Blackstone River Greenway Project has received a $6 million investment for a 0.5 mile section of the greenway in Blackstone. This funding was made available through a $24 million investment in the state’s recreational trails by Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, initially received through The American Rescue Plan (ARPA).

The Blackstone River Greenway is a section of a longer 48-mile bikeway that connects Worcester, MA to Providence, RI, along the National Heritage Corridor. The paved trail follows the Blackstone River and Canal wherever possible. Though intended as a bike path, it is also used for walking, jogging, and other recreational activities.

This funding will be used to invest in a 0.5 mile section of the trail from the Canal Street Bridge in Blackstone to the Rhode Island border, where the greenway joins another existing shared-use path. It will make possible repairs and upgrades to the existing trail.

“I am incredibly excited about the upgrades this funding will allow us to make to our existing recreational infrastructure,” commented State Rep. Michael Soter in response to this funding. “Trails such as the Blackstone River Greenway provide the perfect opportunity for everyone to explore the wonderful natural beauty of our town and state.”

“The expansion of the Blackstone River Greenway trail highlights the importance of outdoor recreational space in my district.” Senator Fattman continues, “I look forward to seeing this project bring more people to the area to enjoy our natural resources.”

Rep. Soter and Sen. Fattman stated that they will continue to advocate for funding that will help towns expand and improve access to recreational activities.