The project: IMEG (formerly FHI Studio) supported RiverCOG and the municipalities of Middletown and Portland in evaluating a 23-mile trail connection between the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail and the Air Line Trail. This segment represents a critical gap in the planned 111-mile Central Connecticut Loop Trail spanning 22 communities.

Approach: IMEG conducted a comprehensive feasibility analysis that integrated land use evaluation, environmental screening, and permitting considerations to identify viable trail alignments. The team paired this technical work with a robust engagement process, including workshops, pop-up events, and advisory committee meetings, to gather input and build consensus. Visual tools, including before-and-after cross sections and photo renderings, were developed to illustrate how the trail would fit within existing corridors and enhance stakeholder understanding.

Challenges & solutions: Balancing trail connectivity with environmental constraints and existing land use conditions required careful alignment planning and regulatory coordination. IMEG evaluated multiple corridor options and screened for environmental and permitting considerations, resulting in feasible, context-sensitive recommendations.

Outcome: The study provides RiverCOG and partner municipalities with a clear, community-supported path forward to close a key gap in the regional trail network, advancing connectivity, recreation, and multimodal transportation opportunities across Central Connecticut.