Wendy Thomas Protects NH’s Rail Trails

I’m a walker. I take the occasional hike, but mostly I like to walk quickly and with friends and we keep a constant stream of discussion going. My definition of the New Hampshire Advantage includes our spectacular nature, and the rail trails I enjoy walking and others enjoy using with their off-highway recreational vehicles (OHRV).

When Wendy Thomas sat on the Resources, Recreation and Development Committee in the NH House, she worked hard to protect the rail trails and the people who live near them. She was inspired by management practices for rail trails in other states and created HB 311 to create a committee to study best practices for the ongoing maintenance and expansion of the NH rail trail system. HB 311 would establish a state-wide approach addressing environmental concerns on rail trails due to their history of being used for train transport. These health concerns include asbestos used in train braking systems, spills from train storage cars, toxic exhaust, and fuel leaks. Evidence of past ecological mishaps and potential current health concerns are areas of rail trail where no vegetation grows.

HB 311 has been supported in both the NH House and Senate, and I hope it passes what I believe is the final vote in a couple of weeks.

That alone is reason enough to vote to return Wendy Thomas to the State House on April 13th. Wendy protects and expands the NH Advantage. Vote for Wendy Thomas !

Wilma Cunningham

Merrimack Resident