SWAMPSCOTT — The Friends of the Swampscott Rail Trail have donated $150,000 for the ongoing design and construction of the town’s rail trail project.
The community group was formed to support the project and has been fundraising and promoting the trail at the Swampscott Farmers Market all summer, as well as hosting used-bike sales and raffling off Red Sox tickets provided by Cataldo Ambulance.
“So many people have told us they’ve been out using the trail, walking the trail, biking the trail, and can’t wait for more segments to be constructed,” said member Alexis Runstadler at Tuesday night’s Select Board meeting. “We’re really thrilled to contribute money to that purpose.”
The Swampscott Rail Trail is built on a former railroad bed. Two segments of the trail, between Bradlee Avenue and the Marblehead town line, have been completed and are open to the public.
The trail is part of the Border to Boston Trail and the East Coast Greenway. When completed, it will be approximately two miles long, running from near the town’s Commuter Rail station and connecting with the Marblehead Rail Trail.
The donation, which was also funded by individual and business donations, will support additional design work and construction for the remaining portions of the trail.
“We are grateful to the Friends of the Swampscott Rail Trail for their hard work and generous donation,” said Director of Economic & Community Development Marzie Galazka. “The completion of the design work is critical to achieving our construction goal and providing off-road, crosstown connection to our neighborhoods, schools and the region.”
Select Board Chair Peter Spellios said at the meeting that it was the largest gift he can remember approving while on the board.
“This donation is such an incredible demonstration of community support for this vital project,” Spellios said.
For more information about the rail trail, visit the town website or swampscottrailtrail.org.
