MILLERS FALLS — Community forums seeking ways to improve Millers Falls saw residents emphasize a need for better river access, and there’s a plan in place to make the idea a reality.
An access trail to the Millers River near the corner of Main and Newton streets is being improved and expanded with a gravel ramp for canoes and kayaks to enter the river, as well as a riverside trail about 300 to 400 feet long. The work isn’t likely to start until spring, and will be complete at the latest by the end of June.
This will be the only river access in Millers Falls. Presently, the closest river access points from Millers Falls are 6 miles upstream in Erving, and 2 miles downstream at Cabot Camp, where the Millers River connects with the Connecticut River.
Better access to the Millers River is a popular idea, judging by community forums in held by the town Planning Department this summer. But the grant funding for this project predates this summer’s meetings by about a year, according to Town Planner Walter Ramsey. Similar priorities had also been identified as early as 2011 by the Conservation Commission and in forums for the town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan.
“This very much ties in with what the community wants,” Ramsey said.
The project is entirely funded by a grant from the state Department of Conservation and Recreation for $25,525. The Selectboard accepted a bid for the construction of the trail for $18,196. The grant funding will also cover picnic tables and a sign naming the place as a river access point, Ramsey added.
The project must be complete by the end of June, per the Selectboard’s contract. Town Administrator Steve Ellis said work could begin this fall, but the bulk of the work or perhaps all of it will likely happen in the spring.
Reach Max Marcus at mmarcus@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 261.