Tim Vermette, the MRTA Project Director has been sneaking out with a lawn mower clearing more and more trail bed every time. This is some of the work Tim did today. The sad part is that the weeds grow back as fast as he can cut them. Once the tracks are removed and an actual hard pack trail is put down, it will be much easier to keep the sides groomed for running and cycling. Cheers to Tim for his awesomeness!

We had such a great turn out and accomplish so much more in these little clean up splurges, that in future we will limit our clean ups to no more than 1-2 hours, depending on location. Whatever we miss we get on the next pass.

This time out we tackled the Railroad St location just north of the Old Depot. There is an issue with trees and brush left on the trail from the VFW roofing project, but no doubt we can get that taken care of in time. Aside from that we made great headway removing all the visible trash and debris.

Thank you to all the wonderful members who came to last night’s meeting. It was a great kick off to our 2010 season (and the pastries and cider were quite welcome.) We reviewed our 2009 accomplishments, which seen in retrospect are surprising for such a small group. We now have a good sturdy formal organization, making it easier to accomplish our long term goal of converting our abandoned railbed into a multi use greenspace for the enjoyment of the whole town. One of our first goals in 2010 is a recruitment drive for new members. Dues for 2010 Membership are $10 dollars; at this time our only benefit is a discount on purchases from Buchika’s, but we are hoping to approach many more local business to sponsor our group. We are even looking at getting some window decals so members can show their support. Our other immediate 2010 goal is an end to end clearance of the track, so that one can walk or mt bike the entire stretch and see what a glorious attraction Methuen has right in its heart. We will be getting out there on a regular basis to see this through. We are presently looking into an organization that takes old rail stock in exchange for trail work, we will let you know how that turns out. Our next 2010 goal is to bring a concrete proposal before the city council and get a letter of support. If you are interested in joining the Methuen Rail Trail Alliance or know anyone who is please contact us and see these goals into the new year.

Thank you
Methuen Rail Trail Alliance
Joyce Godsey, President
Harry Banks, Vice President
Julie Levesque, Secretary
Rachel Banks, Treasurer
Kelly Tondo, Volunteer Coordinator
Tim Vermette, Project Director

Our Project Director Tim Vermette has been secretly clearing the rail bed of brush on his days off. Since B&M Railroad ceased operation, the rail bed has been gradually reverting to a natural state of small trees, brush and vines. In the summer and fall sections nearest the downtown area have been impassable on foot without a machete and jungle guide.

One of the Methuen Rail Trail Alliance’s 2010 goals is to clear the entire Methuen section of the Manchester to Lawrence Branch line, so that it can be traversed end to end by foot and mountain bike. Please join me in thanking Tim for his incredible devotion to this goal.

the Methuen Rail Trail Alliance Annual Membership Meeting
will be held
Wednesday, March 10th, 2010
7:00 meeting, 6:00 meet and great

Nevins Memorial Library
305 Broadway

Please attend if you, bring a friend if you like.
We will be setting the agenda for the upcoming year
and we would like to see all hands on board!