Aquidneck Island Plans First Phase of Rail Trail Project
A 4.5-mile shared-use path along Burma Road, from Melville to Access Road on Aquidneck Island, is being designed as the first phase of a long-envisioned rail trail project that will run alongside the active Newport Secondary rail line.
Providence New Bedford, RI, October 12, 2026 — A new 4.5-mile shared-use path is planned for Aquidneck Island, marking the initial phase of a larger, long-envisioned rail trail initiative. The proposed path will extend along Burma Road, connecting the areas of Melville to Access Road.
This development is part of a broader plan to create a rail trail that will run adjacent to the active Newport Secondary rail line. The design phase is currently underway for this first segment, which aims to provide a dedicated space for shared use, likely by cyclists, pedestrians, and other non-motorized users.
The project intends to transform a portion of the existing infrastructure into a recreational corridor. While the summary details the scope of this first phase, further information regarding the timeline for construction, specific community engagement efforts, or the full extent of the planned rail trail beyond this initial 4.5-mile segment was not immediately available.
The Newport Secondary rail line is an active line, and the co-location of the shared-use path alongside it suggests a careful planning process to ensure safety and integration for both rail operations and recreational users. The designation of Burma Road for this path indicates a strategic choice for its route on the island.
This initiative represents a step towards realizing a long-term vision for a recreational trail system on Aquidneck Island, leveraging existing rail corridors to enhance connectivity and outdoor access for residents and visitors alike.
Story summarized from the original created by Ryan Belmore on whatsupnewp.com, see more information here.
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