By Holly Muson and Jeffrey North
On September 10, the design team led by Nitsch Engineering delivered the 75% design submission to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). This submission marks a significant step forward for Phase I of the Belmont Community Path.
The 75% design stage means that detailed plans are now largely complete. The submission covers alignment, grading, drainage, fencing, landscaping, and structural components such as the underpass, retaining walls, and other supporting features. This level of design provides MassDOT with the comprehensive materials needed to move the project toward final review, permitting, and construction.
With this milestone, Belmont is now moving toward 100% design. The focus will be on refining details, incorporating agency feedback, finalizing land agreements, and securing environmental permits. MassDOT and its partner agencies will carefully review the submission, and their comments may lead to revisions.
The Belmont Community Path is a critical link in the Massachusetts Central Rail Trail (MCRT). Phase I will extend from the Cambridge line to the Clark Street Bridge, connecting neighborhoods, schools, and regional trail networks. This detailed design submission also allows for more accurate cost estimates and scheduling, ensuring that planners and residents have a clearer picture of what lies ahead.
This milestone demonstrates real progress. After years of planning, surveys, and community discussions, Belmont is closer than ever to realizing the long-awaited Community Path.
Map of the future Belmont Community Path (Phase 1) from the 75% design submission. Graphic: Nitsch Engineering
FAQ: Belmont Community Path 75% Design
What exactly is the 75% design stage?
It means most engineering details are in place, though fine-tuning and agency feedback will continue until the 100% final design.
Does this mean construction is about to begin?
Not yet. MassDOT must review the submission, finalize right-of-way agreements, and complete permitting before bidding and construction.
What are “structural plans”?
These are detailed engineering drawings of the entire length of the path, including the underpass and the retaining wall, ensuring the path is safe and meets state standards.
When will the path be built?
The current schedule indicates that MassDOT (which will supervise the construction process, rather than the town) expects to issue a request for bids in September 2026. After a construction company is selected, the project is expected to take approximately three years to complete, with the underpass work done toward the latter half of the overall schedule. The underpass will be completed and opened for use concurrently with the rest of the path, not earlier.
How can the public stay informed?
Visit BelmontCommunityPath.com for updates and public notices.
Holly Muson is chair of the Community Path Project Committee.
Jeffrey North is managing editor of the BCF Newsletter.
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