Blackstone River Bikeway

Blackstone River Bikeway is a multi-use recreational trail following the course of the Blackstone River through Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Upon its planned completion, the paved path will span approximately 48 miles, connecting Worcester to Providence. The bikeway is a central component of the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park and forms a critical link in the developing East Coast Greenway. It traverses a historic landscape central to the American Industrial Revolution, offering users a car-free route through urban centers, state parks, and preserved mill villages.

Route description

The bikeway's alignment closely follows the Blackstone River and the historic Blackstone Canal, utilizing former railroad corridors such as the Providence and Worcester Railroad. The route begins in downtown Worcester near Union Station and proceeds southward through communities including Grafton, Uxbridge, and Woonsocket. The surface is primarily paved asphalt, with some sections of compacted crushed stone. The trail features a generally gentle grade, making it accessible for a wide range of users, though some segments involve on-road connections. Notable engineered features include several restored historic bridges and viaducts that cross the river and its tributaries.

History and development

The concept for the bikeway emerged in the late 20th century, championed by the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission and various state agencies including the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and the Rhode Island Department of Transportation. Development has been incremental, with sections opening as funding from federal sources like the Transportation Alternatives Program and state bond measures became available. A significant milestone was the designation of the corridor as part of the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park by the National Park Service in 2014. Construction has often involved remediating former industrial sites and coordinating with numerous municipalities and private landowners along the route.

Connecting trails and networks

The Blackstone River Bikeway is a pivotal segment of the 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway, which aims to link Calais, Maine to Key West, Florida. In Worcester, it connects to the developing Mass Central Rail Trail. In Rhode Island, the path links with the Ten Mile River Greenway in East Providence and provides access to the network of trails within Roger Williams Park. Upon reaching India Point Park in Providence, users can connect to the Washington Secondary Bike Path, which leads toward Coventry, and the Providence Riverwalk.

Points of interest

The trail passes numerous sites of historical and natural significance within the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park. Key landmarks include the Slater Mill in Pawtucket, considered the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, and the Blackstone River State Park in Lincoln. Users will encounter preserved mill villages like Ashton and Whitin Reservoir near Uxbridge. The route also offers access to the Blackstone Gorge, the Museum of Work and Culture in Woonsocket, and the River Bend Farm visitor center in Uxbridge.

Access and usage

The bikeway is accessible year-round and is designed for non-motorized use, including cycling, hiking, and inline skating. Numerous formal trailheads with parking are located along the route, including at River Bend Farm in Uxbridge, Blackstone River State Park in Lincoln, and Veterans Memorial Park in Woonsocket. While most sections are separated from vehicle traffic, users should be aware of several on-road segments, particularly in urban areas like Central Falls. The trail is maintained by a partnership between the National Park Service, state departments of transportation, and local municipalities.

Category:Protected areas of Worcester County, Massachusetts Category:Protected areas of Providence County, Rhode Island Category:Rail trails in Massachusetts Category:Rail trails in Rhode Island Category:East Coast Greenway