Yarmouth residents share input on potential Cape Cod Rail Trail connection

Sep 6, 2019

Yarmouth residents, town staff, and local officials had an opportunity in August to learn more about a potential bicycle/pedestrian connection between the Cape Cod Rail Trail and the drive-in property south of Route 28 adjacent to Parker’s River.

The Cape Cod Commission is providing assistance on this project to the Town of Yarmouth through the District Local Technical Assistance program.

Public input plays an important role in the planning process. Two public meetings were held in August: a daytime meeting at the Yarmouth Senior Center, and an evening meeting at Yarmouth Town Hall. Attendees were updated on the study that identified opportunities, challenges and several potential route options. An interactive mapping exercise allowed attendees to share thoughts and concerns about several potential route options.

The route options were identified through meetings with town staff, site visits, and an examination of the natural and built environment in the proposed area. The proposed connection would run largely through town-owned land, making use of existing unpaved trails that wind through relatively flat terrain near cranberry bogs, woodland and wetlands.

The Town of Yarmouth is working to improve economic development along Route 28 and believes that adding a bicycle/pedestrian connection could help create a new destination for bicycle tourism as well as expand transportation options, including access to employment opportunities and businesses in the area.

The public process will continue through the fall. The Town will post a public survey in mid- to late September to gather feedback on route options and bicycling opportunities in Yarmouth. A draft report is expected in November, with a final report to be issued in December.