Robert Frost Trail

The Robert Frost Trail Initiative is an essential community project linked to the plans by various developers over time for the area around County Rd and Hazen Dr, sometimes referred to as the "Hazen Land." This initiative seeks to leverage the current unified ownership of the land to establish a trail that will become challenging to negotiate if divided among multiple future owners. This trail represents an opportunity for forward-thinking approach to town planning, emphasizing sustainable development and community well-being.

Project Context

The development of this area is anticipated to significantly increase local population and traffic. Establishing the Robert Frost Trail now is critical for ensuring safe, non-motorized access for both existing and future residents, connecting significant local destinations such as Pond Parish, Birch Park, and the proposed Baboosic Greenway rail trail.

Proposed routing of the Robert Frost Trail added to a map of a recent subdivision proposal submitted to the Planning Board

Proposed Improvements

The Amherst Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) recommends the inclusion of a 10-12 foot wide crushed stone trail within the development. The trail is designed to connect three crucial points marked on the proposal maps, integrating seamlessly with the natural topography and existing infrastructure. Given the local topography and wetlands, the trail design will adapt to environmental conditions while maintaining safety and functionality. BPAC suggests employing standard construction techniques suitable for sensitive areas, ensuring the trail has minimal ecological impact.

The trail should include:

• Surface material: A crushed stone, 10 foot wide trail
• Permanent easement: A permanent public access easement to ensure the trail remains accessible to the community despite any future land development changes.
• Easement width and buffer: A total corridor width of 20-22 feet, including a 5-foot buffer on each side for vegetation and maintenance.

Standard cross section of a shared-use path, note the proposed path here would be 10 ft wide (source: Federal Highway Administration)

Community Impact and Benefits

The sidepath is expected to significantly improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly for those accessing local schools and community facilities. It will also enhance property values by improving local infrastructure and accessibility. The addition of this path aligns with Amherst's goals of promoting sustainable, non-motorized transport and improving the quality of life for its residents.

Need for Action

Incorporating the Robert Frost Trail into any development plan will provide immediate and long-term benefits to residents by enhancing property values, promoting healthier lifestyles, and attracting buyers seeking active, community-oriented living. Trails are known to increase neighborhood desirability, offering recreational opportunities and alternative transportation routes that reduce car dependency.

BPAC strongly urges the Amherst Planning Board and any prospective developers of this land to integrate the Robert Frost Trail into any subdivision plans. This incorporation will preserve crucial recreational and transportation infrastructure for future generations, fulfilling a community goal of enhanced multimodal connectivity.

Public letters submitted by BPAC to the Planning Board and various developers are listed below: