by Leah Robins
6/6/2013

"This grant provides an incredible opportunity for Holliston, and the entire MetroWest region that will be connected by the Upper Charles Trail, to continue increasing access to an outdoor recreation that the public can enjoy,” said Representative Dykema.  “I’m grateful to Commissioner Lambert for his support of matching programs like these that make a big difference in our communities.” 

“The Recreational Trails Grant program has already resulted in significant improvement to the quality of life in Holliston. Last year, we completed a 1-mile section of the Upper Charles Trail from Hopping Brook Road to South Street using this grant program,” said Robert Weidknecht Chair of the Holliston Trail Committee.  “The grant that we just received will allow us to connect that section with the existing six-mile trail in Milford. Users will soon be able to enjoy the benefits of a regional trail network system. Thank you to MARTAB and the DCR for this wonderful grant program.“ 

“I congratulate the Holliston Trail Committee for its work to establish and maintain a regional trail system residents across MetroWest can enjoy,” said Senator Karen Spilka.  “This matching grant from DCR is an important step in supporting the Upper Charles Trail and will provide added recreational opportunities for our region.” 

Since 1993, DCR has awarded more than $8 million in Recreational Trail Program funds to nearly 400 worthy trail projects in communities across the Commonwealth, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, and the Massachusetts Recreational Trails Advisory Board. 

These grants are awarded to communities, non-profits and state agencies annually, and funded though the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Recreational Trails Program.  Each grant recipient matches its grant with at least an additional 20% in cash or in-kind services.  Funds are distributed to each state to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses.