The Town of Wilton is introducing a new walking trail alongside the Stony Brook.
On Sunday, June 12, community members and project leaders held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the Stony Brook trail, which is fully accessible for people with disabilities. The new path features fishing spots, scenic views and wildlife observation areas, and its lights are solar-powered.
The project was led by Wilton’s Economic Development Leadership Team and the Wilton Conservation Commission, and was phase two of the greater Wilton Riverwalk project that began development back in 2017. Wilton’s Curtis Farm Landscape Construction helped build and expand the path that was once abandoned.
In addition, the new trail was funded through a $19,711 AARP Community Challenge grant and a permanent easement of land beside the Stony Brook made possible by TDS Telecomm. The New Hampshire state director of AARP, Todd Fahey, said the new trail will encourage more people to enjoy the natural beauty Wilton has to offer.
“We are incredibly excited to support the Town of Wilton as they work to make immediate improvements in the community, encourage promising ideas and jumpstart long-term change,” said Fahey. “Our goal at AARP New Hampshire is to support the efforts of our communities to be great places for people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities and the coronavirus pandemic has only underscored the importance of this work.”
The new trail also has sustainable features, including a pathway made from recycled pavers to help filtrate the water that limits pollution and harmful waste from flowing into the river. Wilton Economic Development Team Chair Jennifer Beck said her dream to provide more outdoor activities to the community is coming true.
“We are very grateful to our partners, AARP and TDS Telecomm, for supporting our vision for a walkable downtown accessible to all, and are excited by the new recreational opportunities this trail opens up,” said Beck.