Rail rights of way are a valuable and increasingly rare resource that should be preserved and utilized.  Rights of way constantly face encroachment from development and other competing uses.  Once rights of way are fragmented, it is nearly impossible to return to viable track use.

The Commonwealth needs to establish strong policies and resources to preserve these rights of way.  The region should also seek opportunities to create new bus ways along trail/rail rights of way.  Trail design and development should consider incorporating a wide enough right of way to include a dedicated bus service lane.  Regional and state transportation planning should evaluate existing and former railroad right of way for its potential to include dedicated bus routes.

15.a    EOTPW should develop a stronger rail right of way preservation policy and funding plan

15.b    The MBTA should develop a policy directive that allows and promotes transit-with-trail design

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