Spot Pond Brook Greenway Feasibility Study

Shadley Associates led a team of subconsultants in the development of the Feasibility Study for the Spot Pond Brook Greenway, a proposed multi-use corridor from the Oak Grove Neighborhood in northern Malden to the Malden River in the south end of the city.  Once complete the Greenway will connect the Oak Grove MBTA station with the Northern Strand Community Trail and a larger network of shared-use paths stretching to Boston and beyond.  The project goals were to create a continuous two-way corridor of paved accessible shared-use paths (on and off road) that accommodate multi-modal transportation, are comfortable for all users, and are vegetated to the greatest extent practicable for shade, screening, cohesion, and a healthier downtown environment.  In addition, the proposed improvements focused on daylighting the historic Spot Pond Brook (which was culverted in the early 1900’s) to create a healthier ecosystem and highlight the history of Malden.

Shadley Associates prioritized public outreach during this study, holding multiple public meetings and collecting polls and comments regarding preferred alternatives and routes.  The preferred proposed route aimed to have minimal impact on private property, utilizing city and state-owned land as well as existing right-of-way and utility easements whenever possible.  Public input reinforced the desire to have off-road paths and incorporate vegetated medians where paths follow roadways.  Shadley Associates also studied locations for community murals, interpretive and wayfinding signage, lighting, and site furnishings along the Greenway to create a community transportation and recreation gem.