Hearing Scheduled To Extend WWII Memorial Trail In Mansfield

MANSFIELD, MA — A public hearing proposing an extension of the World War II Veterans Memorial Trail was scheduled by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). The 2-mile trail ends just north of Fruit Street in Mansfield, but if the project is approved, state officials will add a 10 to 12-foot recreational path extending to the intersection of Crane Street in Norton. The hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15 at the Norton Public Library.

MassDOT officials said the project will provide pedestrian and bikers better access to the Mansfield train station and Myles Standish Industrial Park in Taunton. Extending the trail will also give more room for cyclists, wheelchair users, strollers, horseback riders, runners, walkers, birdwatchers, in-line skaters and cross-country skiers to enjoy the outdoors, according to MassDOT officials.

State officials said they will propose parking at several locations along the corridor. As far as the town's responsibilities, Mansfield and Norton officials need to secure temporary or permanent easements in both private and public properties, so state officials can complete the project. An engineer will be present at the hearing to answer any questions. Written statements will also be accepted at the hearing.

"The purpose of this hearing is to provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed Norton/Mansfield Rail Trail Extension project," MassDOT officials said in a statement. "All views and comments made at the hearing will be reviewed and considered to the maximum extent possible."