State Secures Agreement to Reopen the Northern Rail Trail in Andover, New Hampshire

Concord, NH - Attorney General John M. Formella announces that the State of New Hampshire has secured a temporary agreement resulting in the removal of the physical barriers that blocked access to the Northern Rail Trail. Under the terms of the agreement, the trail will be open to the public by 6 p.m. today and will remain open while the litigation between the State and Leonard Caron, who erected the barriers, remains ongoing.

The agreement restores public access to this important state resource while preserving the rights and legal positions of all parties. The agreement is temporary and does not resolve the underlying legal issues involving the Northern Rail Corridor, including the State's authority to operate and manage the Northern Rail Trail. The parties have filed a Joint Proposed Temporary Order for Court approval that outlines the specific terms of the agreement.

"This agreement restores public access to the Northern Rail Trail while the remaining legal issues continue to be addressed," said Attorney General Formella. "The State will continue to protect this important public resource and ensure that it remains available for the people of New Hampshire."

The agreement follows the Department of Justice's filing of a complaint in Merrimack County Superior Court seeking removal of the barriers and restoration of public access. In that lawsuit, the State seeks a court determination regarding its authority to operate and manage the Northern Rail Trail, as well as resolution of claims related to alleged interference with the trail and alleged damage to State property.

The agreement does not resolve the claims in the lawsuit or permanently determine the rights of any party. The State continues to maintain its position regarding its authority over the Northern Rail Corridor, and the remaining issues will be addressed through the court process or other means of resolution.

The Northern Rail Trail will be open for public use by 6 p.m. today. Trail users should continue to follow posted rules and safety requirements.