To The Editor:

I’m not sure who first came up with the idea, but discussions about a regional Rail Trail network along the former Housatonic Railroad line began when I was still in Newtown High School. Over the past 25 years since I graduated, neighboring towns have created the beautiful Pequonnock/Housatonic Rail Trail stretching from Monroe to Bridgeport. Unfortunately, extending the trail into Newtown has been stalled due to several challenges, including an abandoned spur line, environmental concerns at the Batchelder factory site, and privacy concerns from nearby property owners.

Earlier this year, I approached the town about improving the existing path hoping to generate public interest in advancing Newtown’s long-term plan to extend the Rail Trail from the Monroe line to Fairfield Hills. While I received positive feedback from several department leaders, there was no clear path forward. After months of research and collaboration with a local surveyor, an alternative proposal was developed, but it would require legislative approval. I reached out to Mitch Bolinsky for assistance.

From our first conversation, Mitch promised to do everything he could to help, and he has been true to his word. He’s visited the site multiple times, met with railroad representatives, spoken with legislative leaders in Hartford, followed up with the Department of Transportation, and consulted with state attorneys.

A “Hail Mary” refers to a desperate attempt at something that seems unlikely to succeed — and, in many ways, gaining approval to extend this trail was a Hail Mary. Yet thanks to Mitch Bolinsky’s involvement, Newtown residents are closer than ever to having direct access to the 16-mile recreational trail network. His efforts helped secure a license allowing a long-discussed dream to be transformed into reality. Regardless of your political affiliation, this is an incredible benefit to our town that we can all appreciate.

Greg Carnrick

Sandy Hook