Northern Strand Community Trail

Northern Strand Community Trail. The Northern Strand Community Trail is a multi-use recreational path located in the metropolitan region north of Boston. It forms a critical segment of a larger envisioned network connecting several communities to the Atlantic Ocean. The trail promotes active transportation and provides green space within densely populated urban areas.

History

The trail's origins are tied to the former Boston and Maine Railroad corridor, which served industrial areas in cities like Everett, Malden, and Lynn. Following the line's abandonment, the concept for a rail trail gained momentum through advocacy by local organizations and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. Key funding and planning efforts involved the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Federal Highway Administration under programs like Transportation Alternatives. The first major segment opened in 2014, with subsequent extensions developed through partnerships with municipal governments and non-profit groups such as Bike to the Sea.

Route and description

The paved trail currently runs approximately 2.5 miles from Everett through Malden to the Saugus border. Its alignment generally follows the Malden River and passes through diverse urban landscapes, including residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and restored natural areas. Notable waypoints include connections to MacDonald Park and the Gateway Center. The path's design incorporates landscaping, public art installations, and wayfinding signage to enhance the user experience. The surface is consistently asphalt, accommodating cycling, walking, running, and inline skating.

Connections and access

The southern terminus in Everett provides a critical link to the Mystic River network and future connections to the Somerville Community Path and Boston. Primary access points are located at major intersections and public parks along the corridor in Everett, Malden, and Revere. The trail intersects with several MBTA bus routes and is within a mile of the Orange Line at Malden Center station. Parking is available at designated lots, including one adjacent to Everett Stadium. This connectivity supports regional goals for sustainable transport and reduces dependency on the Massachusetts Route 99 corridor.

Usage and amenities

The trail sees heavy use for commuting, recreation, and fitness by residents of the surrounding North Shore communities. It hosts organized events like community walks and cycling tours promoted by local advocacy groups. Amenities include benches, bike racks, lighting for evening use, and informational kiosks. The path also serves as a linear park, offering green space and improved access to waterways like the Malden River for environmental education and stewardship activities conducted by organizations such as Friends of the Malden River.

Future developments

Planned extensions aim to complete the "Northern Strand" vision, creating a continuous 10-mile route from the Mystic River to the Lynn shoreline at King's Beach. Significant projects include the construction of the "Lynn Link" connector and the final segment through Revere to Lynn. These efforts are coordinated by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council and funded through state capital programs and federal grants from the Federal Transit Administration. Long-term visions also explore potential integration with the broader East Coast Greenway and other trails in the Boston metropolitan area.

Category:Multi-use trails in Massachusetts Category:Transportation in Essex County, Massachusetts Category:Protected areas of Middlesex County, Massachusetts