In October 2010, the City of Middletown agreed to use city-owned land on the North End Peninsula, adjacent to the recycling center and the closed landfill, for construction of a kayak and canoe launch on the Coginchaug River. This project will provide public access from Middletown to the freshwater tidal wetlands known as the “Boggy Meadows” where the Coginchaug and Mattabesset Rivers converge, without requiring paddlers to enter the Connecticut River. The area is known for its rich biodiversity and spectacular scenery.
The trail to the river and boat launch will begin near the entrance to the recycling
center (at the north end of Johnson Street, just across the railroad tracks). The trail will follow parallel to the railroad tracks to west (down on the picture) for approximately 500 feet to reach the Coginchaug River next to the railroad bridge.
The trail and ramp will be handicapped accessible, with a floating dock at the water’s edge to make kayak launching easier for everyone, including people using wheelchairs.
The project will be funded largely by a $50,000 federal trails grant, administered by the CT DEP, that the Jonah Center initiated and applied for on behalf of the City in 2006. The Department of Public Works will provide significant in-kind services to prepare the area, including engineering work, brush removal, and grading. The trail will be meander slightly to avoid the need to remove large trees.
To the Middletown Eye.We live out of Town, but work in Middletown. I see Middletown going in the right direction. Just look at Main St, the Parking Lot in back and now this projet. Great job by The Public Works Dept.
ReplyDeleteso excited and looking forward to using it - is there a completion date? also, will there be parking?
ReplyDeleteThe Coginchaug River Access Group, a committee organized by the Jonah Center, deserves a lot of credit for getting this project to this point, with the help of City Planner Bill Warner. The work should be completed in 2011, with the part where the path meets the water completed in August-September when the water level is lowest.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to Middletown and everyone working on getting this approved & built. We're very excited to launch our canoe there next year.
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