FAIRFIELD: Town to open new walking trail

Looking south down Main St., in Fairfield. (Internet photo)

The town of Fairfield is excited to announce the opening of the Cattail Trail, a new trail that runs adjacent to Lawrence High School. The trail will host its opening in conjunction with National Trail Day on Saturday, June 3. Recognizing the importance of protecting natural resources and inviting the public to participate in the beautification of Fairfield’s trails, the event will also highlight three additional trails that create linkages throughout the municipality: the Kennebec Valley Com­mu­nity College (KVCC) Campus Trail, the Goodwill-Hinckley Trails, and the Mill Island Trail.

“Fairfield’s trail system provides linkages to key areas within the municipality, including our downtown and Mill Island Park,” states Fairfield Town Manager Michelle Flewelling. “We are thrilled to celebrate the seasonal opening of the Cattail Trail and demonstrate our commitment to community development. This event is an opportunity to connect with residents and visitors to showcase the municipality’s scenic trails and invite the public to enjoy Fairfield and Hinckley’s natural resources.”

National Trails Day will also recognize the launch of the Fairfield Trails Passbook initiative, which will be open until September 4, 2023. Visitors are encouraged to utilize Fairfield’s trail systems throughout the summer. Each trail will have a QR code that will allow users to photograph their visits along the town’s trails. Participants who walk and record all four trail site visits will be entered into a drawing for a prize, with the drawing taking place after Labor Day.

“The addition of Cattail Trail into Fairfield’s existing hub and spoke trail system symbolizes a commitment to the natural environment, stewardship of recreational resources, and growing the town as a vibrant and walkable community,” states Central Maine Growth Council Director of Planning, Innovation, and Economic Development Garvan Donegan. “Residents and visitors of all ages will have the ability to enjoy the waterfront while being connected to a variety of local resources and services, such as Memorial Park and Mill Island Park.”

The American Hiking Society’s National Trail Day highlights a national movement to create more inclusive and accessible trail networks. The Economic and Community Development Committee of Fairfield are spearheading the event and will be present at the Cattail Trail to assist walkers on their journeys from 10 a.m. – noon. The Cattail Trail is located adjacent to Lawrence High School, and the opening event will take place from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., on June 3. Attendees are encouraged to explore the trail system and learn more about the Fairfield Trails Passbook initiative.