NHDOT awards $512,000 to Franklin revitalization

Funds will be used to build key trestle bridge walkway

The city of Franklin’s ongoing revitalization efforts has gotten a big boost with a NH Department of Transportation award of $512,000 in Transportation Alternatives Program funds that will be used to build a pedestrian walkway on an existing trestle view bridge connecting Mill City Park to the base of the Winnipesaukee River Trail.

Mill City Park is a public-private partnership that is envisioned as including white water kayaking on the Winnipesaukee River that proponents hope will draw enthusiasts from around the region to the city. Also included will be a community garden, pavilion, mountain bike pump track, trails and camping.

Engineering, design and permitting of the white water park is underway. Construction of some of the land portions are expected to begin this year.

Franklin City Manager Judie Milner said the trestle bridge “is a vital piece of Franklin’s history” that “stands large and proud over the Winnipesaukee River located at the entrance of the main downtown area.”

The TAP funding “will provide structural shoring for the safe access from the land portion of the park to Central Street while preserving another piece of history at the base of Franklin’s downtown” said Marty Parichand, executive director of Mill City Park.

Mayor Tony Giunta said that, when completed, the “benefits of this new outdoor recreation venue far exceed the borders of the city. The impact will affect the region and state as well.”

TAP provides funding for alternative transportation projects such as road pedestrian and bicycle facilities, rail trail improvements and Safe Routes to Schools projects.