A coalition group including DotBike will be working with DCR, National Grid, Neighborhood Associations, Mass Highway and other relevant stake holders to explore options to make this crucial connection.

Recent activity has included the submission of a $13 million grant by DCR to the federal department of transportation to complete the entire Neponset Greenway Trail.  You can read all about it at this link: Neponset River Corridor

We should hear if this is funded sometime in March so stay tuned.

In 2011 group of Tufts Urban Planning students studied the "missing link" area, including surveying the community, identifying land ownership, and devising options for locating path connections.  This report can be downloaded here:

http://ase.tufts.edu/uep/Degrees/field_project_reports/2011/Team_4_Final_Report.pdf

A white paper was prepared in April 2009 by members of Dot Bike and BNAN that outlines the project, our preferred option for the construction of off-road multi-use path and the current status of the DCR project and related issues.   You can download the white paper here: Dorchester_Coast_Trail_White_Paper.pdf

Gaining right of way access near the National Grid gas tanks was an initial major roadblock.  Thanks in part to our efforts, National Grid, has had productive negotiations with the DCR regarding siting a path on and adjacent to their property that will allow the crucial off road link between Victory Road and Morrissey Blvd. north of the I-93 off ramp.  However, the required lease between National Grid and DCR is dependent on committed DCR funds to this project.  Advocacy efforts will need to ensure that there is enough political and community support for this project so as once funds become available this project will become a priority.

The proposal for the southern section between Conley Rd. and Victory Rd. appears to provide an straightforward opportunity to construct a path on an existing right of way.  However, agreement by controlling agencies and access issues remain to be determined.

In January a group of Tufts Graduate students in the Urban Environment Planning and Policy program will began a project sponsored by the DCR to create a 'master plan' to complete the coastal greenway focusing on this missing link.  The result of this project should provide useful material for continued advocacy toward completion of this project.