The project: IMEG is leading a trail routing study to finalize the East Coast Greenway (ECG) alignment for a 13-mile gap spanning Simsbury, Bloomfield, Hartford, and East Hartford, Connecticut. This project marks the completion of the final gap in the ECG’s 120-mile continuous route between New Haven and Putnam, CT.

The goal: The primary goal of the project is to close the existing 13-mile gap in the East Coast Greenway (ECG), a 3,000-mile
off-road walking and biking route that extends from Maine to Florida, creating a connected, accessible corridor for cyclists and pedestrians.

Design approach: The study focused on addressing two distinct gaps in the ECG alignment: the Simsbury to Bloomfield Gap and the Bloomfield to East Hartford Gap. IMEG’s scope of work involved extensive coordination with multiple agencies and community members. It included concept screening based on existing conditions data, projected economic benefit analysis of various alignments, and the creation of public-friendly graphics such as photomorphs and 3-D models to represent potential trail alternatives.

Project outcome: The study evaluated several route options, carefully considering factors like costs, benefits, and community impact, to select the most viable alternative for completing the ECG in the region. The outcome will be a comprehensive implementation plan that guides the phased development of the 13-mile trail gap, ensuring its successful completion in the coming years.