Ipswich Trail Plans in the Works

The Ipswich Chronicle recently reported that plans for the proposed 4.9-mile trail that would run alongside Argilla Road are a concern to local residents. Plans for the trail have been in the works for roughly 14 years. The trail would begin on Country Road and end at the Crane’s Beach entrance.

Many of the concerns are environmental issues, such as the trail consisting of impermeable materials, tree removal, maintenance, as well as moving sidewalks in an area where the trail would cross the Fox Creek bridge. Other concerns deal with the overall price of the project, estimated at $2.5 million.

Carol Lloyd, chairman of the trail committee, said there could be some notable changes from the original trail plans, including crushed stone paths in place of pavement. The committee will be working with the town and residents to receive input for a revised trail plan.

The project has received some grants from the Departments of Conservation and Reservation ($56,000), as well as an earmark from the Transportation Department ($100,000). With much more capitol needed to complete the project, the project is still considered to be in the exploratory stages.

“Ultimately, this is improvement to the Town property and we will be significantly involved,” said Town Planner Glenn Gibbs.

Read the entire Ipswich Chronicle article.