The Vision: Connecting Our Community
We are raising funds to construct a 1,085ft (1/5 mile) multi-use path between the new Concord Middle School and the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail (BFRT). Located between Gerow Park and White Pond, this path will add a lively, new community space to this set of green gems along the BFRT.
Help us create this vital link and achieve a long-planned vision of a more connected Concord.
Design and Location
The proposed design navigates a ~30-foot elevation change while remaining accessible and integrating seamlessly with the natural setting. Our priority is to create an ADA and MAAB-compliant pathway that embraces green design principles and preserves existing playing fields.
Anticipated Opening: September 2027
Green Design & Tree Preservation
Prioritizing the health of our local ecosystem through low-impact trail construction.
Building a path through a wooded area requires a delicate approach. We are committed to minimizing our environmental footprint by implementing key green design decisions:
- Routing Around Existing Trees: The path's alignment is deliberately designed to curve and weave, avoiding mature tree trunks and minimizing the need for removal.
- Above-Grade Construction: Instead of deep excavation which cuts into critical root zones, the path will be built up above the existing ground level where necessary to protect subterranean ecosystems.
- Permeable Paving: Utilizing porous surface materials allows rainwater to pass directly through the trail. This ensures existing tree roots continue to receive vital hydration and maintains the natural hydrological cycle of the surrounding woods.
Why Improve the Paths?
The current access points, colloquially known as the "Woods Path" and "Goat Path," are inadequate for general use.
Current Path Conditions
Existing trails are steep, heavily eroded, unstable, and often overgrown with brambles and poison ivy. They are uninviting, difficult to locate, and represent a safety hazard, completely lacking accessibility for many community members.
Safety & Accessibility
Get students away from cars. Stabilize surfaces to prevent injury. Ensure a Safe Route to School that provides independence and access for all students and differently-abled individuals.
Health & Environment
Promote physical fitness and mental health through movement and community connectivity.
Prioritize tree preservation through green design principles and lower emissions by reducing vehicle trips. Both result in healthier air quality.
Civic Alignment
- Envision Concord 2030
- 2015 Open Space & Recreation Plan
- 2018 Comprehensive Long Range Plan
- 2020 Climate Action and Resilience Plan
- 2026 Transportation Strategy Plan
- Civic Support: Select Board, School Committee, Transportation Advisory, Climate Action, & Trails Committee
Community Group Support
- Friends of the BFRT
- CMS Parent Teacher Group
- Mothers Out Front
- Monsters in the Basement
- SEPAC
- Concord Mobility
- Bike to School - Concord
The Destination
Connecting Concord Middle School to the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail (BFRT) opens a safe, paved, multi-use corridor for students, staff, and the wider community. This vital link encourages active transportation—like walking and biking—which boosts student focus, improves public health, and provides a fun, cost-effective way to explore local green spaces from Gerow Park to White Pond.
Funding Progress
Design funds in hand, we are actively securing funds for the construction phase. The total project construction cost is estimated at $700,000.
Remaining funds will be sought via Private Donors, a Community Preservation Act grant and State Grants.
Support the Connector
Your contribution helps make a safe, sustainable route a reality. All donations go directly to an account created specifically for the Connector Project and are tax-deductible.
Donate Online
Make a secure contribution online through the Concord Middle School PTG portal.
*Please note: Online payments include a 3.2% processing fee.
Donate by Check
Make checks payable to: "Concord Middle School PTG"
Include "BFRT Connector Fund" in the memo line.
923 Old Marlboro Road
Concord, MA 01742
Have questions regarding donations?
Email the PTG Treasurer