Multi-Use Trail Pitched For New London Waterfront

A member of the Economic Development Commission says it would be feasible to develop a multi-use trail between downtown New London and the Fort Trumbull peninsula.

Dr. Abel Donka has proposed the trail for use by by walkers, cyclists, and commuters. The idea is currently before the Economic Development Committee of the City Council.

“As a city with beautiful ocean views, a multi-use trail will both showcase our city and provide a practical non-motorized option for commuters,” Donka says in the proposal given to the Council.

Donka proposes developing the trail in segments, with the first segment extending from Union Station to the end of the pier and the second segment going from the pier down the Bank Street connector and behind the Coastal Digestive Building to the existing Shaws Landing condominium trail.

The proposal says the first segment can be easily accomplished by adding painted lines and signage at the waterfront. The second segment would require the construction of an earthen or paved path on the Shaws Cove hurricane barrier, where the city has the right of way. New London also has public access to the condominium trail and the ability to make improvements to the trail under the city’s contract with Shaws Landing. Donka says decking could also be installed on the barrier but would be more problematic since post holes would violate the barrier.

Donka said the project would not require funds from the municipal budget since it would be eligible for grant funds. He said these opportunities include the National Recreational Trails Program and TIGER grants from the Department of Transportation.

The third and fourth segments would extend the trail from Shaws Landing to the intersection of Bank and Howard Street and down Howard Street to Fort Trumbull. However, Donka said it would be more difficult to develop the trail in these areas due to issues such as traffic congestion and excessive vehicle speeds.

Improving pedestrian and bicycle access between Fort Trumbull and downtown New London is one part of the Yale Urban Design Workshop’s recommendations for development at the peninsula. Donka says the city should work with officials involved in these recommendations in extending the trail.

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