FAQs
Myth vs. Fact
Over the years, a number of arguments against Trail maintenance have been made and, since they've not been challenged, have been accepted as true. Below, the Clear the Trail Initiative has separated the myths from the facts.
Myth:
The Minuteman Trail was not designed to be plowed. Promises were made to abutters that the Trail would not be lit at night or plowed in winter.
Fact:
Residents have reaped the benefits of the Trail for years and opposition to maintenance has nearly evaporated. A recent survey of abutters along the Alewife to Lake Street section of the Trail has shown overwhelming support for year-round maintenance of the Trail.
Myth:
Winter demand for the Trail is low.
Fact:
This claim is simply false as evidenced by the myriad icy footprints that are left on the trail by those who use it regardless. Internet chat rooms buzz with frustration over the 'Closed for the Winter' policy. CTI signature drives gather dozens of names per hour. Year-round demand is clear and overwhelming.
Myth:
Plowing the Trail will cost too much.
Fact:
Town DPW employess already on duty successfully plow the trail from Alewife to Lake Street. These crews also plow all the parking lots that abut the trail as well as some of the paved playgrounds at our schools. At three miles long and eight feet wide, the Minuteman Trail represents less than one-half of one percent of the asphalt in Arlington. It would take a plow truck fifteen minutes to drive from end to end.
Myth:
Snow removal will cause damage to the trail.
Fact:
Due to the skill and care of DPW staff, the Alewife to Lake Street section of the Trail, which already enjoys year-round maintenance, has suffered no damage.
Myth:
Cross-country skiers use the trail too.
Fact:
This activity is only possible in pristine/maintained conditions, not the pock-marked ice that is the result of neglect. An unmaintained Trail is unusable for all. The town of Northampton, which performs year-round maintenance on its multi-use trail, has determined that not maintaining the trail in favor of limited user groups such as XC skiers is poor public policy.
Myth:
Salting the icy spots will affect sensitive areas surrounding the Trail.
Fact:
The City of Cambridge performs year-round maintenance on its multi-use trail around Fresh Pond, a public water supply. Cambridge uses sand to take care of the occasional icy patch. The use of salt is not necessary.
