Although the existing railbed provides a firm, hard pack surface suitable for many wheelchairs in most parts of the trail, the BSC Design involves excavation of this surface in order to make space for new fill and asphalt paving.  

The excavation of old rail beds carry a number of risks:

Soil Contamination: Old rail beds may have been treated with
various chemicals, including herbicides, pesticides, and preservatives, which could have leached into the soil over time. Excavating these areas without proper precautions could release contaminants into the water, affecting its quality.

Sediment Disruption: The excavation process can disturb sediment in the area, potentially releasing suspended particles into the water. This can lead to increased turbidity, which may affect water quality and impact aquatic life.

Erosion and Runoff: Excavation activities may expose bare soil, leading to increased erosion risks. If proper erosion control measures are not in place, sediment-laden runoff could enter the water source, carrying pollutants and compromising water quality.

Disturbance of Aquatic Ecosystems: Excavation can disrupt the habitats of aquatic organisms, including fish and other aquatic species.  This disturbance may lead to changes in the ecosystem dynamics and impact the overall health of the water body.

The BSC Design Group and the Town of Andover have ignored these risks in our judgment.  A thorough site assessment that includes soil tests of the rail bed would indicate any potential hazards.  While the town has conducted soil tests, these were done in the general vicinity and not in the rail bed itself.  The type of soil tests needed to definitively determine if the project could proceed safely have not been done.

Also concerning are planned (or lack of) erosion control measures.  The current trail runs over some ancient culverts that allow water to pass between the pond and neighboring wetlands.  Some of these culverts are decrepit and in need of repair.  The latest BSC Design states that the culverts will not be touched.  It is wishful thinking that these culverts may not collapse under the weight of heavy equipment or as the hard pack layer above them is disturbed. 

Massachusetts state level Energy and Environmental Affairs Department observed these risks in its initial response to the town’s Notice of Intent (Read the EEAD Response Here).

The lack of a formal review by the Planning Department, discussed in the column on the right, is a cause of additional concern.  A project this extensive ought undergo expert oversight and a formal review process.  The trail will be enjoyed by a limited portion of the town in any form; our drinking water supply is a critical need for every resident.  Instead, the Town, most notably the Facilities Department and the Commission on Disability are seeking to expedite the project at every turn.