The Art Walk at the Bradford Rail Trail is an effort by Team Haverhill, in cooperation with the Friends of the Bradford Rail Trail and the City of Haverhill, to add sculptures to the Bradford Rail Trail as an additional attraction to the area.

The Bradford Rail Trail is a half-mile path running along the Merrimack River between the Basiliere and the Comeau Bridges. In 2008, the City purchased the land compliments of a state grant and a donation from the Greater Haverhill Foundation. The City and the Friends of the Bradford Rail Trail, a volunteer group, created the path for pedestrians, cyclists, joggers and other non-motorized users.

The Trail includes a variety of features, including benches, historical and educational markers, and a beautiful mural called “Wildlife in the Merrimack River Watershed” already installed on the Arthur Sharp Building. Construction of the trail has been completed, and an official opening will take place on June 24, 2017.

The Art Walk includes 5 sculptures along the trail for the public to enjoy, installed during Spring 2017. Team Haverhill is planning a gala celebration to officially open the Art Walk and meet with the artists in summer 2017.

A bit of background:

The call for artists to submit sculptures for consideration took place in February 2015. Fourteen talented and experienced artists submitted ideas – some with multiple submissions. The selected artists include People’s Choice winner David Borrus, selected by a public vote, as well as Susan Blim, Susan Kneeland, Dale Rogers, and Jack Welch, who were selected by the Art Walk committee.

As with many Team Haverhill projects, the funding for the Art Walk at the Bradford Rail Trail comes from both residents and businesses. On November 16, 2013, Team Haverhill hosted an Auction Gala in support of the Art Walk at the Bradford Rail Trail at the Haverhill Country Club. Haverhill’s own Matt Noyes from NECN served as the MC and Auctioneer and the entertainment was provided by the Spotlight Playhouse. It was a fun and successful evening for all who were able to attend! From our business community, Pentucket Bank has generously stepped forward as the Corporate Sponsor of the Art Walk itself. They have long been a supporter of Team Haverhill’s work and are excited about this most recent endeavor.