Mohawk Bicycle Trail Environmental Services

BETA provided comprehensive ecological and environmental permitting and engineering services for MassDOT and their Design Engineer during the design and construction of the proposed Mohawk Bicycle Trail in Williamstown. This 2.4-mile paved multi-modal path, currently under construction, will connect the Williams College Campus to the Spruces Conservation Area, passing by historic sites and crossing over the Cole Field Landfill.

BETA conducted wetland resource area boundary delineations along the trail’s multiple alignments, following local, state, and federal methodologies. Their Wetland Scientist performed soil and vegetation surveys using USACE methodology to support the design and selection of the preferred trail alignment.

During the initial design phase, BETA investigated the Cole Field Landfill cap components and identified design criteria to protect the landfill cap during construction and future maintenance. Collaborating with the Town of Williamstown, BETA developed a MassDEP Corrective Action Alternative Analysis (CAAA) and Corrective Action Design (CAD) for the landfill’s post-closure use, including a new closure cap, geomembrane liner, and post-closure monitoring program.

BETA also led the environmental permitting for the trail, navigating its location within rare species habitat, the 100-year floodplain, FEMA-restricted property, and along the Hoosic River and various streams and wetlands. They prepared a detailed Alternatives Analysis, which supported the selection of a preferred alternative that minimized tree clearing, avoided rare species, reduced wetland impacts, utilized publicly-owned land, and enhanced public access to the Hoosic River.