Imagine converting the old Maryland and Delaware rail easement from Easton into Oxford into a pedestrian and bike trail? A recent exploration by a board member has found that the route is partially visible in several places along Oxford Road and has been partially maintained by private property owners since the closing of the rail line in 1996.  A linear park/trail could serve to connect commercial, historic and cultural amenities along a shared use path accommodating walkers, joggers and bicyclists of all ages and fitness levels.

Completed following the Civil War, the Oxford Spur was a key piece of infrastructure that led to prosperity in the Eastern Shore Tidewater region. The 66’ wide easement was abandoned in the mid 1960’s and the land deeded to the adjacent property owners. The challenge will be to find a way to reclaim access to a portion of the old easement and preliminary research has indicated that this will be difficult, but is not insurmountable. The Rails to Trails Conservancy in Washington DC has been very helpful to many other groups that have successfully completed similar projects in other locations. There are over 2,000 examples of successful rail to trail projects in all 50 states, so there are many good precedents to follow. The recently passed Infrastructure Bill contains substantial funding for active transportation projects such as this.

Imagine, in the near future it will be possible to ride the entire 8 mile route from Oxford to Easton on a safe and beautiful wooded greenway that would help support local business and attract pedestrians and cyclists to a healthy and safe amenity for both visitors and local Talbot County residents.

Thank you to Board Member Cameron J. Mactavish of Oxford MD

Click on the image below to open a PDF of the full Oyster Trail presentation.