Aquidneck Island ‘Rail with Trail’ Project Advances

Providence New Bedford, RI, October 13, 2026 — A collaborative effort on Aquidneck Island, Rhode Island, is moving forward with plans to create a shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists alongside an existing rail corridor. The initiative, known as a “rail with trail” project, aims to develop a multi-use path adjacent to the active Newport Secondary rail line located on the western side of the island.

The initial phase of this project is concentrating on a specific 4.5-mile segment. This section is planned to connect the towns of Portsmouth and Middletown. The working group overseeing this development is progressing with the necessary steps to bring the project to fruition, focusing on integrating recreational use with the operational railway.

The concept of a “rail with trail” involves creating a pathway for non-motorized users, such as walkers, runners, and cyclists, that runs parallel to an active freight or passenger rail line. This approach seeks to preserve rail infrastructure while simultaneously developing recreational and transportation amenities for communities. The Newport Secondary rail corridor has been identified as a suitable location for such a dual-purpose development on Aquidneck Island.

Details regarding the specific timeline for the initial phase, the total budget, or the contractors involved in the project were not immediately available. The working group’s efforts are currently focused on the planning and progression of this 4.5-mile segment. Further information about the project’s scope and development stages is expected as the initiative advances.

Story summarized from the original created by Frank Carini on ecori.org, see more information here.