Members of the Bay Colony Rail Trail advisory committee told Needham’s joint transportation meeting that they have three near-term priorities: rehabilitate the stone-dust trail surface, add standardized signage and amenities, and pursue an extension to Chestnut Street.

James Goldstein and other rail-trail advocates said drainage problems and surface washouts have made some trail sections difficult or unsafe for bicyclists, and that resurfacing and drainage improvements are programmed in the Department of Public Works’ capital budget for 2026. “The resurfacing the rehabilitation of the surface is on the DPW's capital budget for 2026,” a rail-trail representative said.

Extending the trail to Chestnut Street would involve MBTA right-of-way constraints and a 'rail-with-trail' design that keeps the trail separated from active tracks. Committee members said a 2020 feasibility study produced alternatives but that the town must update cost estimates, select a preferred alternative and identify funding, noting the likely need for MBTA and MassDOT coordination.

The group identified the MassTrails connectivity grant as a likely state source and said regional framing—connecting Dover, Medfield and Needham—could increase competitiveness. “Because this could be promoted as a regional trail connecting Medfield, Dover, and Needham, it would be eligible for up to $500,000,” the committee said.

Long-range ideas—such as a bike-pedestrian bridge over the Charles River to link Dover’s rail-trail—were described as expensive, multiagency projects that will take years to realize. Committee members recommended updating feasibility costs and working with the Select Board and DPW to pursue funding opportunities.

Next steps: rail-trail advocates will follow up with DPW on the 2026 resurfacing project details, seek updated cost information for the Chestnut Street extension alternatives, and explore MassTrails and other grant opportunities to support construction.