Rails to Trails Feasibility Study Charts a Path Toward Regional Connection

Neighborhood Strategies recently completed a feasibility study for Harrison County examining how a future trail could connect the Villages of Jewett and Hopedale, expand recreation access, and support the long-term vision for the Great American Rail-Trail.

Harrison County’s rural terrain, narrow stream valleys, limited roadway shoulders, and active rail infrastructure make walking and bicycling between the two communities challenging. While Jewett is an established trail community at the end of the 11.4-mile Conotton Creek Trail, there is currently no clear, safe connection to Hopedale or the broader regional trail network.

To identify the best path forward, our team evaluated three preliminary alignments: a rail-corridor route, a public-road route, and a hybrid rail-road route. Using a 22-criterion framework, the study compared connectivity, user experience, safety, environmental and community effects, implementation considerations, and long-term maintenance needs.

The rail-corridor alternative emerged as the preferred long-term route, with the hybrid option retained as a strong alternative should rail ownership, operations, or other constraints affect implementation.

The study combined mapping, field review, and corridor analysis to assess active and inactive rail lines, traffic volumes, flood-prone areas, road conditions, and connections to regional trail initiatives. It also provides a roadmap for implementation, including title and right-of-way research, railroad coordination, environmental and engineering screening, historic resource review, and early property owner engagement.

Together, these next steps will help Harrison County refine the preferred alignment, pursue future funding, and advance a trail connection that links communities while honoring the area’s transportation heritage and natural landscape.