Work underway on rail trail

By Ted LaBorde

05/13/2008- The Republican

SOUTHWICK - Kassia C. Randzio was 13, a seventh-grader at Powder Mill Middle School, when she and four other students first suggested a rail-to-trail project for the town.

Randzio, now 26, will receive a master's degree in geography from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst this month. Yesterday she joined town, state and federal officials in breaking ground for the $2.7 million Phase I of the 6.5 mile project.

"This is exciting. We have been waiting a long time," Randzio said. "It is pretty neat to see an idea come to life and consider the positive impact it will have on your community. I am looking forward to riding my bike on the trail."

Randzio can expect to begin riding the first portion of the trail, from the Connecticut line to Point Grove Road around Labor Day. That's when Lane Construction, of Westfield, is expected to complete the first half of the trail, Southwick chief administrative officer Karl J. Stinehart said.

Powder Mill teacher Susan F. Pac said the former New York to New Haven to Northampton railroad right-of-way has provided a variety of educational projects for students.

"This project shows kids they have the power to start many great things," Pac said.

Five students enrolled in the middle school Key Club came up with the idea to use the former rail line for recreation: Randzio, Missy Roy, Emily Hansen, Thomas O'Connell and Mitch Pac.

"Southwick has grown a lot in the past 13 years," Randzio said. "This rail trail will provide safety for kids, who ... will be able to ride from Tannery Road, at the Westfield city line, to Congamond Lakes to go to the beach, get an ice cream - all without worrying about traffic."

Phase II of the project, from Point Grove Road to Westfield, estimated at $1.6 million, is on hold while the Westfield Gas and Electric Department installs a major natural gas main under the rail bed.

Selectman Arthur G. Pinell said creation of the rail trail will not only enhance "recreational opportunities in Southwick but also help to boost the local economy. People will use this trail and as a result frequent town business."

Pinell called the project "a perfect example of a team effort" by "our schools, town agencies, state and local government working together."