Mill River (Springfield, Massachusetts) facts for kids
The Mill River is a small river, about 1.25 miles (2.01 km) long, located in Springfield, Massachusetts. It's a "tributary," which means it flows into a larger river, the Connecticut River.
The Mill River begins at Watershops Pond, also known as Lake Massasoit. From there, it travels a short distance until it joins the Connecticut River.
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A River with a Past and Future
The Mill River has a rich history, especially for the city of Springfield. Long ago, rivers like the Mill River were very important for industries and factories. They provided power and a way to move goods.
The "Miracle Mile" Idea
In 2009, a special report suggested that the Mill River could become a wonderful place for people to enjoy. This report even called it "The Miracle Mile"! The idea was to turn the end of the river into a fun area where people could relax and play.
Hidden Sections of the River
Today, a part of the Mill River, about 350 feet (110 m) long, flows through a large pipe. This section is hidden underground, beneath a highway (Interstate 91), railroad tracks, and even a car dealership. Many people in Springfield wish they could see and use this part of the river again. They hope to have better access to both the Mill River and the Connecticut River in the future.
Connecting Communities
For over a hundred years, the Mill River has acted like a natural border between different neighborhoods in Springfield. The areas around the river are very busy and have many buildings.
At the start of the Mill River, you can see tall stone walls. These walls were built to protect the riverbanks and keep them from wearing away.
Plans for a Better River
The Mill River was once very helpful for growing industries. But now, the way the land is used around the river makes it hard to "free" it up for fun activities. The 2009 report mentioned earlier had a plan to make the Mill River and its nearby neighborhoods better. The idea was to turn the river into a cool attraction, connecting the Connecticut River and the famous Basketball Hall of Fame with Watershops Pond and Springfield College. This would create a great pathway for people to explore and enjoy the city's natural beauty.
