New Piece Of Cochituate Rail Trail Opens In Natick

NATICK, MA — The Cochituate Rail Trail (CRT) hit a second major milestone on Friday when a new bridge along the multi-use path opened over Route 9. Now, bicyclists, joggers, walkers and four-legged friends can trek from Saxonville in Framingham to near downtown Natick.

The first new bridge along the CRT crossing Route 30 opened in early July, giving pathway users a taste of the brand new trail. With the Route 9 bridge, almost all four miles of the CRT are now accessible to the public.

The two rail trail bridges were initially raised in October and November, but contractors shut down construction during the winter months. The project was supposed to be done in June, but labor shortages amid the pandemic delayed the project.

Although the two main bridges are open, some aspects of the trail are still under construction. One key piece is the southern end of the CRT connecting to the downtown Natick MBTA station. That part could be complete next summer, with a ramp to Natick's Main Street from the station to follow. You can see a map of the full course of the CRT here.

MassDOT is planning a formal opening ceremony for the two new CRT bridges, which may happen later this summer or fall.