Design 

The Norton Rail-Trail is a proposed extension of the World War II Memorial Trail in Mansfield, MA through the town of Norton, MA. Though still preliminary in planning and design, this approximately 4 mile rail-trail would consist of a 10 to 12-foot wide multi-use path with a parallel, separated 5-foot wide unpaved equestrian trail, similar to the Mansfield portion.  The rail-trail for the most part would follow the Mansfield Sewer right-of-way with a few on-road sections where the right-of-way has either wetlands issues or gaps. 

Potential Design Elements:
  • 10-12' multi-use path with 5' equestrian path
  • On-road striping and signage
  • Safe roadway crossings
  • Fencing where necessary
  • Informational kiosks
  • Historical interpretive signing
  • Parking area


With the help of Norton Residents we can make important decisions about these potential design options.

Take a video tour of the Mansfield Sewer Right of Way through Norton, MA

Access

Regional Connectivity
We hope to connect with the Mansfield World War II Veteran's Memorial Bike Path and extend through Norton into Taunton. Future connections may develop through Taunton and from Easton to Norton.

Historical and Cultural Links
The trail will follow the historic Old Colony Railroad line, formerly the Taunton Branch Railroad. Information markers can be placed to educate residents about the important role this rail line played from 1835 through World War II. 
Norton's Forests, Meadows and Woodlands
The trail will provide improved access to Conservation Commission owned land, Johnson Acres, as well as the Winthrop Dahl Nature Preserve, and the Johnson and Henrich Woods which are owned by the Land Preservation Society. Residents using the trail will have unprecedented views of these preserves and easier access to their paths. Whether moving down the trail, resting beside it, or wandering along one of the nature paths, you will be experiencing some of Norton's Valuable and diverse unspoiled wildlife habitats. 

Benefits

Norton’s Rails to Trails Path will benefit members of the town and the surrounding area by providing a cost-effective and health-promoting means for exercise and commuting. It will connect the Myles Standish Industrial Park to the Mansfield Commuter Rail. It will provide year round recreation for cyclists, wheelchair users and strollers, horseback riders, runners, walkers, birdwatchers, in-line skaters, and cross-country skiers.

The Rail Trail will have the following benefits: 
Safer off-road paths and intersections
Economic Development
Increased Property Values
Connection with Historical Events
Recreation for All Ages
Healthy/Family-Friendly Exercise Venue
Pollution-Free Commuting Option
Improved Nature Preserve Access

Potential Roadway Crossing Renderings: