The Rail Trail Will Bring "Old Lynnfield" Back

A Letter to the Editor from Courtney Caggiano Nunley:

Dear friends, neighbors, and fellow Lynnfield residents,

I’d like to have a moment of your time to let you know why I am for the Rail Trial.

I grew up in Lynnfield. It is a special place, there is no question. I left for Miami for college, then came back to live around the city for many years, but when it came time for my husband and I to find a home, we were hard pressed to find a town that felt as unique as this community. A hidden gem, close to the city, but offering a breath of fresh air and beautiful trees.

But here’s the thing, for those who believe the Rail Trail will “change” Lynnfield, or make it more of a city, I full-heartedly disagree. In fact, I believe the Rail Trail will bring back some of the “country and quaint” sense this town has lost with other enhancements that have come in over the years.

When I moved back I was struck by how busy the streets had become, and how hard it was to find pathways where you could simply go for a walk or a bike ride without the fear of a speeding car or distracted driver. The Lynnfield I moved back to felt like it was missing some of the nature and open air I relished in the Lynnfield I had left.

The Rail Trail is that. In spades. A peaceful, beautiful, and safe oasis for community members of all ages to get out of their own heads for a bit, put down their devices, get some exercise and connect with nature and each other. Without fear of a car whizzing by.

In terms of the arguments, the ones I seem to hear loudest are from abutters. I get it. You bought a house never expecting to have a trail constructed behind your property, and it may not be your cup of tea. You have seen the facts and figures on crime and real estate value not being an issue, so that can’t be the reason. The financials make sense too, and for those who worry that there won’t be enough volunteers, you may have missed the large and enthusiastic group of people that has already been established.

But yes, you may hear foot traffic. You could hear the murmur of friends gossiping on walks, the clip-clopping of a dog whose nails need a trim, and the occasional toddler cry when he inevitably falls off his bike on the second try. If that’s annoying to you, we can’t change that. No amount of facts and figures will change that either. But I can tell you that I live on one of the most walked streets in town – Locksley Road – and for me the sounds of people connecting through exercise and taking a moment to relax with their dog is invigorating. It is a reminder of the importance of healthy choices. It is a way to see people living in the moment and enjoying the world around them, which is too rare of a thing these days. It helps that the sight of the dogs walking by brings daily joy to my 2 and 5-year-olds as well.

So, for what it’s worth, my family is for the Rail Trail. For those who are against it, I understand, but I ask you to consider the positive impact it could have on our community, including your own family.

For me, someone whose family roots in this community go back over 40 years, and who has decided to raise two daughters here, the Rail Trail is a way to bring the Lynnfield I grew up with back. Together, let’s use it as an opportunity to shine a light on this unique gem of a town we are all lucky to call home.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Most sincerely,

Courtney Caggiano Nunley, Locksley Road