Exciting Updates, Construction Progress, Community Support & Recent Events in Wilton

(Re-)Introduction to NRVT in Wilton

The Norwalk River Valley Trail (NRVT) stands as one of Connecticut’s most ambitious multi-use trail projects. Winding through Norwalk, Wilton, Redding, Ridgefield, and Danbury, this trail transforms both daily recreation and regional connectivity for Fairfield County.

For the Wilton community, the trail is more than just a path; it's a vital connection point, offering scenic access to parks, schools, town centers, and transit hubs. The Wilton segment supports local wellness, eco-friendly commutes, and countless outdoor adventures, reinforcing its reputation among Connecticut multi-use trails, “NRVT Wilton CT,” and “Connecticut bike trails”.

Latest Trail Updates & Construction Progress

Exciting developments continue along the Norwalk River Valley Trail in Wilton, Connecticut, as efforts to expand and improve this cherished multi-use trail gather momentum in 2025. The NRVT, a scenic 30-mile pathway stretching from Norwalk to Danbury through several towns, including Wilton, is designed to provide a universally accessible route for walking, biking, and other outdoor activities, connecting communities with nature and recreation.

These past few years have brought substantial advancements for the NRVT in Wilton. Recent milestones include the completion of critical trail segments, ongoing work on the “Wil-Walk” (Wilton Walk) portion, and grant-backed expansion plans. In 2023, the Western Council of Governments (WestCOG) was awarded a $5.6 million federal RAISE planning grant, which accelerates design and construction for tricky, hilly areas, directly benefiting Wilton’s infrastructure.

Video Courtesy of Kelly Prinz at Connecticut Coastal Times

Wilton Loop Extension Underway

One of the key projects currently shaping the trail in Wilton is the Wilton Loop Extension. This important addition will extend the trail approximately one mile eastward from its current terminus at Skunk Lane to Pimpewaug Road. Scheduled for completion in 2025, the new segment promises to further enhance connectivity within Wilton and extend access to new neighborhoods and natural areas for trail users. This loop format trail now totals about 6.2 miles of well-maintained paths, featuring a mix of gravel, boardwalk, and paved surfaces, providing a comfortable and scenic experience for users of all abilities.

Wil-Walk Section Expansion

The Wil-Walk section, originally funded through a Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Recreational Trail Grant, continues to be an integral part of the trail's Wilton presence. It offers a peaceful woodland environment with boardwalks over wetlands, in contrast to more urban trail areas closer to Norwalk. Northern sections of Wil-Walk have been extended near Kent Road with recent funding secured in 2023, demonstrating ongoing commitment to expanding safe and accessible trail options.

Funding and Design Advancements

Norwalk and Wilton communities benefit from strong regional collaboration and funding support. Recently, a significant $1.5 million grant was awarded to help complete the Norwalk section of the trail, which is tightly linked with Wilton's segments in creating a continuous and safe multi-use corridor. Additional funding has been approved for design and construction of spurs and connectors, including a planned spur trail from Glover Avenue in Norwalk that will enhance access to the Wil-Walk section, further bridging the two towns’ trail systems.

Community Partners & Events Along the NRVT

The NRVT continues to foster strong partnerships with local governments and organizations. First Selectman Toni Boucher, who played a crucial role in the trail's early development, expressed pride in the project's success: "It is deeply rewarding to watch this dream become a reality. It has succeeded beyond what any of us dreamed." Collaboration with the Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) has been essential in securing necessary permits and agreements for trail development, particularly for the new section north of Skunk Lane.

Recently, nearly 100 runners from 40 towns united for the inaugural “It’s All Downhill From Here” 5K on August 2 in Wilton, benefiting the NRVT. Organized by Coach Jim Gerweck and the Wilton High School Boys Cross Country Team, the event raised $21,000, over half of the $40,000 goal for the NRVT’s 2025 Maintenance Appeal.

Even more, this year the Wilton Girl Scout Troop 50792 made a meaningful impact on the Norwalk River Valley Trail, especially for users with pets. These dedicated young changemakers identified an issue with dog waste bags being left on the trail and took action by designing and installing helpful new signs to encourage proper disposal, helping keep the trail clean and enjoyable for all. Next time you visit the Wilton section, look for these friendly reminder signs and join the Troop's poop free mission to maintain this beautiful community treasure.

As the NRVT continues to connect Wilton and surrounding Fairfield County towns through 30 miles of scenic, multi-use trails, ongoing maintenance is vital to keep the trail safe and accessible year-round. Support from community members like you ensures this treasured trail remains a place for recreation, connection, and nature appreciation. Donate today and help sustain the beauty and safety of the NRVT for generations to come.

nrvttrail.app.neoncrm.com

2025 Maintenance Appeal

Dear Trail Friends, We hope that you and yours are having a great summer and have been out on the Norwalk River Valley Trail. As stewards of the Trail, The Friends of the NRVT have always taken great pride in maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment and our dedicated TrailTender volunteers work tirelessly to this end. While we are SO fortunate this year to have the Wilton High School Boys X-Country Team help us organize an inaugural 5K, these efforts alone are no longer enough as weather continues to pose unexpected challenges, creating perilous conditions resulting in higher maintenance costs. Please consider a donation to help maintain the NRVT. Your contribution today will immediately impact our ability to keep the Trail safe and free from dangerous hazards. With Kindest Regards, Andrea Gartner Executive Director Norwalk River Valley Trail

A Trail for Everyone

The NRVT is more than just a trail, it is a vital community asset aimed at fostering health, well-being, and outdoor recreation for residents and visitors alike. Dogs are welcome on-leash, and the trail offers multiple access points within Wilton, including parking areas at Wolfpit and Autumn Ridge commuter lots. Whether for a quiet stroll, a family bike ride, or training run, the trail’s tranquil woodlands, scenic vistas, and thoughtfully constructed boardwalks over wetlands make it a treasured natural escape close to home.

Maintenance Efforts and Community Support

Recent storms have posed challenges for the NRVT, causing significant damage to various sections of the Wilton trail. The Friends of the Norwalk River Valley Trail estimate repair costs at $55,000 for sections they maintain. These repairs include addressing rivulet damage, replacing lost materials, and regrading affected areas.

The community has rallied to support these efforts. Local organizations such as the Wilton Kiwanis Club, Motion PT Group, Wilton Garden Club, The Wagging Fund, The Greens at Cannondale, and Orem's Diner have stepped up with donations to aid in trail maintenance.

The Norwalk River Valley Trail project is supported by numerous partners, grants, and community volunteers. Ongoing maintenance and expansion rely on generous community support. Consider joining local volunteers or contributing to the trail’s maintenance appeal to help keep this wonderful resource thriving for generations to come.

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Get Involved & Volunteer Opportunities

The NRVT invites community members to actively contribute to this growing regional asset. There are many ways to get involved and support trail development, maintenance, and outreach:

• Board Meetings: The NRVT Board hosts regular public meetings where you can learn about trail plans and share your input.

• Communications & Promotion: Help spread the word about NRVT’s benefits throughout Fairfield County.

• Fundraising & Events: Play an essential role in organizing guided walks, educational programs, and fundraising activities.

• Trail Maintenance: Get hands-on with clearing debris, repairing pathways, and keeping the trail safe and accessible for all users.

For details about volunteering and giving, visit the Get Involved page on our website. You can also show your love by following and sharing our mission on social media. Tag your adventures with #NRVT and amplify our story!

Looking Ahead: The Future of NRVT in Wilton

Thanks to continuing community support and ongoing construction, the Norwalk River Valley Trail in Wilton is projected to reach 10 miles of scenic, multi-use trail upon completion. This expansion will provide even more opportunities for recreation, commuting, and connecting with nature in Fairfield County.

Charlie Taney, former board president of the Friends of the Norwalk River Valley Trail, captures the community spirit best:
"You can really feel it’s starting to happen, which is great."

Whether you’re a lifelong trail user or new to the NRVT, there’s no better time to get outside and enjoy Wilton’s natural beauty. If you enjoyed this update, don’t forget to subscribe to our Wilton Newsletter for the latest local news and special invitations.