In the core of Auburndale is a quiet DCR-owned Pigeon Hill Park on the shores of the Charles River.  In the late 1800s thru mid 1900s this park had boat houses, canoe manufacturing companies servicing thousands of people who sought the recreational opportunities on and along the Charles. This resource was cut off from surrounding neighborhoods in the 1960s by the construction of the Mass Pike. The RGWG is working to restore this legacy focusing on four key links to this parkland and the evolving Riverside Greenway.

1. Recreation Road 'Stringer' Bridge: this bridge across the Charles at the Lasell Boat House is in disrepair. The Mass DOT will be replacing this element in 2023.

2.  Pigeon Hill Path:  Before the construction of the Mass Pike (I-90) a half-century ago, this roadway connected homes on Pigeon Hill to the park below   This road, lost beneath the turnpike.  Reclaiming this roadbed will unlock river access for a neighborhood cut off by the construction of the turnpike in the 1960s and provide a link in the regional greenway network. RGWG received a grants from MassTrails, the Newton CPC and Solomon Foundation to complete 25% design of this trail. Construction may occur in conjunction with the I-90/95 Bridge Replacement and Restoration Projects.

3.Depot Tunnel:  The Riverside Depot was where canoeist arrived form Boston to enjoy the Charles River. The Station is gone but the tunnel survived, passing below the MBTA Framingham/Worcester Commuter Rail line. The tunnel was closed in 2017 because of deterioration of the tunnel’s facade and ceiling. The restoring this element by Mark Development will create access to the Pony Truss Trail. An alternative proposed by the DCR is a boardwalk under the iconic Framingham commuter rail bridge connecting the Pigeon Hill trail to the Pigeon Hill Park is being evaluated.

4.    I-90 Underpass at Charles Street:  This short 2-lane tunnel under the Mass Pike provides access from the parkland to Auburndale Center.Narrowing the roadway, creating a shared-use sidewalk adding lighting and opportunities for mural art will enhance  user experience.