Dr. John F. Dashe. Handout

The proposed Dedham Heritage Rail Trail would convert the derelict rail line that runs from Dedham Square to East Dedham into a linear park and rail trail. Though sadly neglected, this land is public property and should be improved for the enjoyment of all. Here are some of the many ways the rail trail would benefit our town:

1) The trail would be a smooth, level path separated from motorized traffic. It would give people of all ages and abilities a secure place to walk, run, bike, and relax. Kids would be able to use the trail as a safe route to adjacent schools and playing fields. Once it connected to the planned bike path in Readville, commuters could walk or bike to the T and catch the train to Boston.


2) By encouraging active recreation and transportation, the trail would promote healthy lifestyle choices.

3) The trail would make Dedham more attractive to millennials -- younger adults generally prefer to bike and walk rather than drive. It would also increase neighboring property values.

4) The rail line from Readville was once the main travel route from Boston to Dedham. By revitalizing and beautifying this corridor, we would properly honor this important part of our history.

5) The proposal is cost effective. Once Dedham invests in a design and engineering plan, state and federal grants would fund most or all of the several million dollars needed for construction.

6) Right now, illegal dumping, drug use, and underage drinking are rampant on the overgrown rail corridor. Converting this seedy strip into a landscaped park with a paved path accessible to police patrols would discourage these activities and make trail neighbors safer.

7) The trail will preserve the privacy of neighbors. The trail and shoulders will take up only about 14 feet of the 50-foot-wide corridor, leaving more than 15 feet on each side for a buffer of trees and greenery. Neighbors could add fencing if desired.


The rail trail would help Dedham to improve the health, recreation, and transportation choices in our town. It is time for Dedham to join the more than 70 Massachusetts communities that already have rail trails!

NO

Tina Whalen

Dedham resident

Tina Whalen. Handout

I am not against cycling nor walking along wooded trails. In fact, many of us enjoy walking around town every week. But the proposed rail trail would infringe upon the basic right of privacy of abutters, which includes many longtime Dedham resident and businesses.

A rail trail is typically an attractive notion -- until it runs through your backyard. I wonder how many of the proponents would support the project if the route passed next to their properties? Can you imagine how you would feel with an increased volume of cars, foot traffic, and cyclists converging in your quiet neighborhood?

The cost is also a concern. Dedham has spent $10,000 of taxpayers’ money for an incomplete feasibility study that has dragged on for months when we have far more important town matters before us. Because the study is not completed, the fall Town Meeting indefinitely postponed a request for additional funds for a circulation study for the project.

The overall estimated project cost will far exceed the proposed $1.4 million, in part because of the major bridge work involved. The proposal lacks parking at the bridges and hardly qualifies as the kind of nature walk other towns enjoy, through deep wooded areas, lakes or rivers, and other tranquil settings. This proposal is nothing more than a 1.5-mile glorified sidewalk.


With so many homes and commercial buildings along the trail, abutters are also very concerned about the potential of break-ins, yard theft, property damage, and the safety of their children playing in their backyards. There will be no lighting, so the trail will be closed from dusk to dawn. Who knows who would be on it during those hours? It will not be usable to get to the Readville train station to Boston or for people to get to Dedham Square to shop, dine, or see a movie after dusk.

Dedham has far more pressing issues requiring the financial commitment and attention of its leadership than a costly trail that would be intrusive to abutters. Let’s all walk and bike, but consider other locations like the Striar property, which is far better suited for something like this.

Last week’s Argument: Would the proposed MassMedicum medical marijuana facility benefit Holbrook?

Yes: 65 percent (11 votes)

No: 35 percent (6 votes)

As told to Globe correspondent John Laidler. He can be reached at laidler@globe.com.