What if Massachusetts built a Cycle Highway alongside East-West Rail?

A bold, statewide idea for a connected, car-free future.

Imagine a cycle highway running parallel to the East West Rail project, linking western and eastern Massachusetts. It would become the spine of a statewide network, connecting local trails and communities across the Commonwealth.

This simple pairing could create enormous benefits, giving residents new ways to commute without a car, enjoy recreation, and build healthier, more connected lives. It would strengthen local economies, support tourism, and reinforce our environmental goals, all while complementing one of the most transformative transit projects in state history.

While the East West Rail project is being studied, why not conduct a sister study to explore what it would take, and what it would cost, to build a parallel cycle highway? The incremental investment could pay lasting dividends in access, equity, and sustainability.