Our Mission

The FCRTC was formed after first meeting with Franklin town officials, Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR), the Bay State Trail Riders Association (BSTRA), the Grand Trunk Trail Blazers organization (GTTB), representatives from our State Legislature and several citizen representatives of Franklin and neighboring towns. Under the guidance of the GTTB, the FCRTC is working as a non-profit, community based organization that is dedicated to the development of the Southern New England Trunk Trail into a multi-use, recreational path that will link communities and businesses in a safe, healthy and aesthetically pleasing manner. Our mandate is to explore all private, state and federal funding avenues, to implement all necessary design plans and studies and to develop our multi-use path for non-motorized bikers, joggers, strollers, horse riders and the handicapped. We will raise awareness in our community and promote the recreational and transportation use of this path for the benefit of all residents. We will expend all necessary funds for the maintenance and enhancements that will periodically be required.

Bike and rail trails offer not only creative uses for old infrastructure but encourage healthier lifestyles and environmental preservation. The completion of a rail trail through Franklin will serve as a positive step towards protecting the environment and enhancing the quality of life in our community. I commend the Franklin Citizens Rail Trail Committee for its outstanding vision and unwavering dedication to this project; I look forward to working with the group toward completion of a safe and functional rail trail.

--James E. Vallee, State Representative

As an avid cyclist, I know how vital safe bike trails are to the community. Turning rails to trails is a project that benefits those who are already interested in fitness and the outdoors, but also inspires others to take advantage of access to an inexpensive and healthy resource. I appreciate the efforts of the Franklin Citizens Rail Trail Committee in seeing this project become a reality for our region.

--Scott P. Brown, U.S. Senator