Frequently Asked Questions
Where will it go? From Lighthouse Point in New Haven along the shoreline through East Haven, Branford, Guilford, and Madison to Hammonasset Park, a distance of approximately 25 miles.
What will it connect to? It will connect to the proposed New Haven Harbor Trail which will eventually connect to the East Coast Greenway running from Maine to Florida.
Who can use it? Anyone and everyone, though motorized vehicles will not be allowed on the Trail.
How is the environmental impact being addressed? The Board of Directors has adopted a statement of environmental principles for responsible trail design and maintenance and a environmental responsibility statement for landowners.
How will it be surfaced? The surface will vary by section, and will be appropriate to the surroundings and sensitive to the environment.
Who will maintain it? Shoreline Greenway Trail teams will be responsible for maintenance with “Friends of the Trail” volunteer groups helping out. We continue to develop a comprehensive Trail Maintenance Program.
Who will pay for it? This is a big project. Local, state, and federal grants will be needed as well as contributions from corporations, foundations, service clubs, and individuals in each town.
How long will it take? Although it could take as long as ten years to fully complete the Trail as envisioned, sections will be opened gradually as money and land become available.
How safe will it be? Rails to Trails Conservancy studied crime rates on 372 trails in 1995 and 1996 and concluded that trials do not increase crime. On suburban trails, major crime was virtually non-existent.
What effect will it have on homeowner’s privacy? The Rails to Trails study included 82 suburban trails covering more than 1,100 miles. Only 3 percent of the trails reported any incidents of trespassing on adjacent property over the two-year study period.
What will it do to property values? Many studies have shown that trail-front property increases in value after the trail goes in.
Who will be liable for damages from accidents? By Connecticut General Statutes #52-557f-j, owners are held harmless from any liability for accidents.