I hope everybody had the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful, spring-like weather last weekend! I couldn't help but notice that the new Peabody Independence Greenway got a lot of action with the first string of 55+ degree days that the dark city has seen in a long time. I actually decided to venture out to the bike path and check out the progress, and I was pleasantly surprised!!1. The car that was submerged in mud on the bed of the Ipswich river has been removed.
2. New pressure-treated fencing has been installed at all high points and water areas.
3. Dog dropping and littering signage has been posted.
4. Nice new stripes have been painted signifying 2 lanes of travel.
5. The areas on both sides of the path have been cut back and cleaned up. (eco brush)
6. I also noticed a few newly planted Quercus Palustris!
Although the city has already had it's ribbon-cutting ceremony and introduced the path to the public as a completed project (I think?), in my opinion a few key issues should be addressed...
1. I noticed a family in front of me trying desperately to roller blade on the path, the path never received it's top (finish/sealer) coat, therefore it is too rough to roller blade, skateboard...etc.
2. Although I did mention previously in this post that proper signage has been posted, I was very discouraged about the amount of litter (empty water bottles,gatorade bottles,coffee cups) and other trash along my trek. I DID NOT SEE 1 BARREL AND I TRAVELED NEARLY 4 MILES!
3. I did notice rusty old tires in the area of the abandoned car that are along the bed of the Ipswich river.
4. There are still areas of entry along the Aggregate Industries fences that have been poorly patched and in my opinion are still a risk for young ones. The residential side of the quarry has a tall wooden stockade type of fence around it, I think that the entire rim of the quarry should have this same type of fence.
I am sure that many of you have had the time to visit this new recreational masterpiece, what are your opinions?
Until Next Time, Let Freedom Ring!
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