Construction Surges along the East Coast Greenway

The 2010 construction season will see over 60 miles of shared-use path added to the proposed East Coast Greenway network in Maine. These projects have been in the works for years and are finally being realized due to the work of state and local agencies and the support & advocacy of hundreds of volunteers.

The longest rail-trail in New England and the longest off-road section of the East Coast Greenway is scheduled to open at the end of this year. The first 32 miles of the Downeast Sunrise Trail opened last year. Another 33 miles should be ready for year-round use by July with the remaining 20 miles completed by the Fall. This 85-mile shared use path will offer spectacular views and an almost wilderness-like experience compared to other sections of the East Coast Greenway.

Complementing the construction in Hancock and Washington County is the over 8 miles of the Eastern Trail under construction in York County. Four miles of rather challenging engineered path in Saco has been bid for construction with groundbreaking to commence in the summer. Over 6 miles of shared-use path

Sunrise Trail Coalition President, Bill Ceckler, Sally Johnson and Polly Ceckler ski by Schoodic Mtn. on the Downeast Sunrise Trail. The rails have been removed on this section but culverts, bridges and surface repairs will not be complete until Fall. (Photo by Sally Jacobs)

between Biddeford and Kennebunk have seen great progress with the relatively cooperative weather this Spring. This new section of trail should be finished in the summer with a temporary stopping point at the Maine Turnpike.

Observant highway travelers may have noticed the piles of dirt just north of the Kennebunk Rest Areas. These are the future bridge abutments for a distinctive bridge that will carry trail users across the Turnpike. When completed in 2011, the Eastern Trail/East Coast Greenway bridge will be gateway feature for highway travelers to Maine and a testament to the great walking and bicycling opportunities in the state.

Just north of the Kennebunk Rest Areas, foundation work is underway for a dedicated shared-use path to cross the Maine Turnpike.

The Eastern Trail/East Coast Greenway bridge will incorporate low-cost aesthetic enhancements. The arched rail, distinctive color and tapered piers will attract the notice of many of the residents and visitors to Maine that travel on the Turnpike. (courtesy of the Maine Turnpike Authority)