Bruce Freeman Rail Trail Parking Coming to Acton Sooner Than Expected

Yesterday, the Town of Westford announced it wants volunteers for a working group aimed towards coordinating the proposed Bruce Freeman Rail Trail extension and parking lot in Acton, also known over the past few months as "."

Any hopes of the plan coming to fruition were expected to take decades, even though it from factions for and against proposed rail trail parking lots in Westford. 

That was until last week, when Land Use Management Director Angus Jennings informed the Planning Board that the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization (BMPO) voted to recommend Phase 2A of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, which extends from Westford into Carlisle and Acton. 

"No one saw this coming," said Jennings.

The unexpected news was also reported in the Spring 2012 Friends of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail newsletter released recently.

Although the BMPO does not have jurisdiction over Westford, it serves 101 cities and towns surrounding Boston, including Carlisle and Acton.

The BMPO has estimated the price of Phase 2A at just under $6.7 million, and public comment on Phase 2A and other competing studies opening May 2 on the BMPO's website.

Anyone interested in participating on the working group can fill out a citizen's activity form available on the town website, or contact Tina Landry in the Town Manager's office at 978-692-5501 ext. 1. for more information.