Newtown Rail Trail Extension Could Move Forward As $50K Push Begins

NEWTOWN, CT — A new community fundraising campaign is underway in Newtown to help close a $50,000 funding gap for a long-awaited rail trail project.

The Newtown Bike & Trail Committee, along with town officials and local partners, is launching a “Rail-Trail-Blazer” campaign aimed at funding the first phase of the Pequonnock Rail Trail extension into Newtown.

Organizers plan to officially kick off the campaign during Newtown’s Earth Day celebration at Newtown Middle School on April 25, but donations are already being accepted online.

Officials said the project would extend the regional trail network into Newtown, connecting to the existing 16.9-mile Pequonnock River Trail, which runs through Bridgeport, Trumbull and Monroe.

The new segment would be built on a former rail line and designed as a multi-use, ADA-compliant path for walking, biking and other activities.

Town officials and project leaders said the trail has been in the works for decades and could bring both recreational and economic benefits to the area.

“It opens the door for people to come into town, park, enjoy a picnic, and set off on nearly 17 miles of the beautiful Pequonnock River Trail,” First Selectman Bruce Walczak said.

Organizers said about $117,000 in funding and in-kind services has already been secured from local donors, along with a $6,000 grant from the Newtown Board of Realtors.

If the remaining funds are raised, construction on the extension could be completed this year, according to project leaders.

More information and donation details are available online.