Lawrence Tucker: A time to share with snowmobiles

We are so blessed to have such a special resource as the Norwottuck Rail Trail in our valley community. There are not many communities that have such a unique resource. Valley citizens can go from Amherst to Northampton without touching an auto highway. How exceptional is that?

Some of us use it often; I use it occasionally while others may take it for granted. And so, it may be time to ask ourselves whether we are “sharing” this priceless amenity with all of our Valley neighbors. This rail trail or “linear park” as some prefer to call it, has both the bridge across the Connecticut River and the tunnel under Route 9 in Hadley, which address safety by completely separating trail users from autos.

The safety of our Valley citizens is also further addressed by the MassDOT project to widen Route 9 in Hadley which has more 14 pedestrian crossings with flashing lights; the MassDOT project in Easthampton, which is adding similar crossings to Route 10; and the city adding a raised crossing of Payson Avenue.

With the impending winter season coming, I know that everyone wants to be inclusive and equitable and not deny any of our citizens the enjoyment of the Norwottuck Rail Trail. With this in mind, the time has come to realize that we need to begin sharing this resource with our fellow citizens and neighbors who snowmobile. Please join me in achieving this inclusive and equitable goal for all.

Lawrence Tucker

South Hadley