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Bike Trail for the Merritt Parkway Gets Renewed Look

Bev Norton
/
Creative Commons

http://cptv.vo.llnwd.net/o2/ypmwebcontent/Heather/ME%20Merritt%20Trail%2005-24-2012.mp3

After languishing for more than 20 years, the idea of a bike trail along the Merritt Parkway is getting serious consideration. But don’t count on being able to ride your bike to work instead of tackling the notorious Merritt traffic anytime soon.

The state Department of Transportation has been holding several public input sessions this spring to discuss the idea of building a trail along the historic parkway. While there’s no actual plan yet, a trail would likely run in the wooded area along the northbound side of the Merritt from the New York state line to the Sikorsky Bridge in Stratford – that’s 37-and-a-half miles.

The idea was first proposed by the Merritt Parkway Trail Alliance in 1992. Now armed with $1.1 million from the National Scenic Byways program and another $200,000 from the state, DOT is finally considering it, starting with these meetings.

Roger Krahn says, "I think it’s a great opportunity to provide some alternative transportation means and recreational value. The Merritt Pkwy is a great resource and this would just enhance it."

But other property owners up and down the Merritt have made it clear privacy is a huge concern. And that includes a long list of related issues like noise, trash, crime, fencing, parking, rest rooms and liability.

Will Britnell of the DOT says, "We are looking at all options. We’re certainly looking at private-public partnerships, federal funding, grants, even volunteerism, anything that can help."

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