To the editor,

The East Bay bike path success goes without saying but is the West Bay Bike path version possible?

At the turn of the 20th century, Rhode Island had one of the most extensive trolley systems in New England.  By their very nature, trolleys need easy grades, wide curves and most importantly, a right of way. 

A trolley company acquires a right of way by outright purchase or sometimes lifetime trolley pass.  This is known as a Provide Right of Way and is a valuable asset to the company.  To acquire one today would be almost impossible.  If you already have one, its value is unbelievable.

The Suburban Railroad once operated a line that ran from Cranston to Apponaug with a spur to Rocky Point.  Mostly abandoned in the 1940’s, a small section is still in use today.  I believe for a nominal fee, the present owners of this right of way would allow it to be utilized as a bike path.

The section from Cranston to Rocky Point would be a good start.  Eventually, the whole system to Apponaug could be realized.  At Apponaug, a connection to the old Shore Railroad to Narragansett could even happen.

As you might guess, any homeowner whose property the right of way goes through might object.  If they didn’t have the foresight to purchase back the right of way, they could be at a disadvantage, legally.

R.H. Brown