MassDOT funds River Walk Loop project
Date: 12/12/2012
By Carley Dangona
carley@thereminder.comAGAWAM — After ten years, the River Walk Loop Project will finally come to fruition after the Massachusetts Department of Transportation dedicated $2.5 million dollars toward its construction.
Deborah Dachos, director of the Planning & Community Development Department, described the loop as a four-foot-wide bike lane on either side of River Road that will connect to the Connecticut River Walk, creating a five-mile loop.
"The loop will be constructed next year for the northern end of the River Walk to Main Street, via School Street," Dachos said. She explained that the project would connect multiple sites, such as Borgatti Field, Meadowbrook Park and The Agawam Fire House Museum.
Mayor Richard Cohen said, "It's a great project that supports our commitment to healthy lifestyles." Cohen cited the River Walk as the latest step in city's efforts to promote better living among residents.
Recently, Agawam became an official "Let's Move!" community, a national program founded by First Lady Michelle Obama to combat childhood obesity and encourage healthier lifestyles, and it plans to build a Y-Express, a facility similar to a traditional YMCA that does not a basketball gymnasium or pool, next year.
The town hired Fuss & O'Neill to finalize the plans, with the hope of sending the work out for bid in February 2013.
"This part of the project is special to me because it'll enhance the safety for the residents," Dachos stated. "It's a dangerous situation currently — we're fortunate there haven't been any accidents. The loop will provide safe access for bicyclists."
For further details on the project, contact the planning office at 786-0400, ext. 8738 or at
planning@agawam.ma.us.
