Upper Falls Greenway Proposed

Members of the Newton Bicycle/Pedestrian Task Force and Newton Upper Falls residents have proposed converting a network of abandoned railroad tracks into the Upper Falls Greenway.

The main route would start near Route 9 in Newton Highlands and extend to the Charles River, running parallel to Needham Street. A spur would cross Needham Street and then turn south to the river.

The greenway would connect to several existing and proposed trails along the Charles, including the Williams-Saco Streets Riverwalk.

Opposing views on the issue:

Preserve the railroad right-of-way for future mass transit use.

Build the greeway now, while maintaining mass transit as a future option.

The Depot Coffee Shoppe on Oak Street is a former train station on the line.
One of the bridges across the Charles River.