NH DOT Transfers Conway Branch Railroad Corridor Ownership and Management to DNCR

04/21/2025

Concord, NH (April 17, 2025) – The New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NH DOT) has officially transferred the ownership and management of the state-owned Conway Branch Railroad Corridor to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR), marking a significant step in the development of the state’s Rail Trail network. The transfer was approved at the Governor and Council meeting on April 9. The corridor is approximately 21 miles in length and is located in Ossipee and Madison, with one 700-foot segment currently under private ownership. This transition follows the recommendations of the HB1468 Study Committee, which conducted a comprehensive review of the corridor and its potential benefits for the state and local communities.

Under the direction of the Division of Parks and Recreation, the Bureau of Trails will spearhead the planning process for the Conway Branch Rail Trail. Formation of an Advisory Committee is being considered and would be coordinated by the Division of Parks to facilitate community engagement and planning, ensuring that local stakeholders have a voice in the trail’s development and management.

“We are excited to take on this important project as part of our ongoing commitment to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities for New Hampshire residents and visitors,” said Sarah Stewart, Commissioner of DNCR. “This will be the 94th property under the care and stewardship of the Division of Parks and Recreation, and we are dedicated to working with local communities and groups to make this project a success.”

The development of the Conway Branch Rail Trail will be in line with the State Rail Trail Plan, which aims to create a seamless, sustainable network of recreational trails across New Hampshire. As with other projects under the Division of Parks and Recreation, the state will rely on cooperative stewardship and partnerships with local community organizations. These collaborations will be essential for securing grants, recruiting volunteers, and providing long-term maintenance and improvements to the trail.

“It’s important to note that this is a long-term effort,” continued Stewart. “The development of the trail will likely take place in phases, as funding, community input, and other considerations come into play. But we are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and inclusive, and we will work diligently to bring this vision to life.”

The Rail Trail Master Plan, which has emphasized the economic benefits of well-developed rail trails, will be a key resource as the project moves forward. The planning and implementation of the Conway Branch Rail Trail are expected to bring significant economic impact to the surrounding communities, fostering tourism, local business growth, and recreational opportunities.

As New Hampshire continues to invest in its outdoor recreational infrastructure, the Conway Branch Rail Trail will play a vital role in expanding access to nature and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

For more information on the Division of Parks and Recreation’s efforts, please visit nhstateparks.org.
Media contact: Greg Keeler, Public Information Officer, DNCR, Gregory.J.Keeler@dncr.nh.gov

About the Division of Parks and Recreation
The Division of Parks and Recreation is comprised of the Bureau of Park Operations, Bureau of Historic Sites, Bureau of Trails, Bureau of Community Recreation and Cannon Mountain. The Division manages 93 properties, including state parks, beaches, campgrounds, historic sites, trails, waysides and natural areas. The Division of Parks and Recreation is one of five divisions of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. To learn more, visit www.nhstateparks.org, follow NH State Parks on Facebook, X and Instagram or call 603-271-3556.