Brattleboro Enhances Rail and Trail Access for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Work progresses on Vermont's inaugural level platform for Amtrak with the station is poised to welcome approximately 14,000 passengers annually.

Exciting developments are underway in Brattleboro, where enhancements to rail and trail infrastructure are set to improve outdoor activity access throughout the region. 

As work progresses on Vermont's inaugural level platform for Amtrak, the station is poised to welcome approximately 14,000 passengers annually. Local leaders believe that improved accessibility will significantly increase usage of the station.

Town Manager John Potter highlighted the current vibrancy in Brattleboro, mentioning the community’s potential to attract visitors. He noted the importance of these developments in positioning the town as a sought-after destination.

Flanking the new station are two abandoned bridges spanning the Connecticut River, linking Brattleboro with Hinsdale, New Hampshire. A new bridge, the General John Stark Memorial Bridge, is scheduled to be completed by the close of 2024, with ongoing discussions about possibly transforming the old structures into spaces for recreation.

In addition to the rail improvements, Potter emphasized the future of the redevelopment at the Whetstone Brewery and the creation of a southbound trail along the Connecticut, which promises to enhance the local outdoor experience.

Part of the West River Trail Network, a new one-mile mountain biking trail will connect the Amtrak station to the historic Fort Hill railroad bridge. Once its surface is improved, cyclists will gain a crucial link to trails throughout New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

Local business owner Peter Case expressed enthusiasm about the seasonal uptick in biking activities, describing the interconnectedness of the various projects. He envisions a more enjoyable experience for visitors coming off the train, as they explore the town's offerings on foot or bike.

Rachel Shields Ebersole from the Brattleboro Area Chamber of Commerce reiterated the appeal of the region, emphasizing how initiatives like these would draw more visitors, fostering connections with surrounding areas within Vermont and beyond the river.

A formal celebration of the Amtrak station's opening is scheduled for June 24.