Merrimack River Greenway Trail
Riverside Connection
Below is all you need to know about the Riverside Connection. In a hurry? We get it. For an executive summary, just read the red bolded sections below. In a real big hurry? Just click HERE to go straight to a secure donation page.
2020
Phase 1 of the MRGT -- the Terrill Park section -- was completed and opened to the public in 2020. Friends of the MRGT contributed all the money needed to match a federal grant to build Phase 1. That money came from large and small donations from local businesses and individual donors.
2024
Phase 2 -- the Sunflower section -- was opened in 2024. Again we were able to contribute all the money needed to match another federal grant. Again, that money came from donations we received from the generous Greater Concord community.
2025
This year, our focus is on the Riverside Connection, the important connection shown above. First, it will connect the Sunflower section to the sidewalks on Loudon Road, hopefully this year. Then, in 2027, the Loudon Road bridge widening project will complete the MRGT across the Merrimack River to Fort Eddy Road.
When the Riverside Connection and the Loudon Road bridge project are both completed, pedestrians, runners, cyclists, and individuals using wheelchairs will have a safe route to travel between Fort Eddy Road and the businesses located south of Loudon Road, free from motor vehicle traffic.
Why is the Riverside Connection important?
The Riverside Connection is a critical off-road link that will connect existing and future off-road trails, north and south, on both sides of the Merrimack River, from Penacook to Terrill Park.
We are doing everything we can to make the MRGT family friendly and kid safe! Without the Riverside Connection, there would be a gap in the trail, forcing trail users to mix with busy traffic on Gully Hill Road (see map above).
How much will it cost?
Our preliminary cost estimate is $100,000. We will know more and have a better estimate when we get into the design.
Why is your donation important?
Unlike previous sections of the MRGT, the City doesn't have a grant for us to match and there are no funds earmarked in the City’s budget. That means Friends of the MRGT will have to raise all the money needed to build the Riverside Connection. Your donation will help fill the funding gap.
Why is it important that you donate today?
The construction contract between the City of Concord and F. L. Merrill Construction that was used for the Sunflower section is still open. As long as it is open, the Riverside Connection can be constructed as a change order to that contract. This great opportunity incentivizes us to act fast.
We have already started the wheels tuning on permitting and design. We are looking for foundation grants and we are reaching out to the Concord business community for significant donations and sponsorships.
We hope this opportunity also motivates our individual supporters to help us meet our fundraising goal. Your donation TODAY will enable us to take advantage of an opportunity to build the Riverside Connection in 2025, paying 2024 prices.
If we miss this opportunity, we’ll likely pay hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars more for the same result!
Your donation will be recognized.
All donors during this campaign will be recognized on our Riverside Connection Honor Roll. Business Donors will also be recognized on our Business Partners page. As always, donors who have donated $50 or more since 2011 will be recognized on our Honor Roll.
That's not all!
Your contribution will not only help us reach our financial goal, but it will also demonstrate your commitment to fostering a sustainable and healthy community. By supporting the Friends of the Merrimack River Greenway Trail, you will be playing an integral role in promoting outdoor recreational opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for everyone in the community. Imagine the positive impact this trail will have, offering a scenic and safe route for walking, running, and cycling while connecting various parts of Concord and the greater Concord community!
Thank you for your donation!