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Welcome to the William C. O'Neill Bike Path!
Welcome to South County's William C. O'Neill Bike Path, one of the premiere paths in the North East. The path was formerly called, and is still frequently referred to as the South County Bike Path. Presently, the path is 6 miles in length but when completed, it will be approximately 8 miles. From the Kingston train station, the path follows the easement of the old Narragansett Pier Railroad passing through the villages of Peace Dale, Wakefield, and eventually into the Town of Narragansett and the South County Museum adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean.
The Friends organization was started over a decade ago to advocate for the construction of the path. Our effort, as can be seen, was successful. However, our work has been increasingly arduous as we struggle to get Phase 3 into construction. When this phase is completed, it will go from Rt. 108 (Kingstown Road) at Chelo's Restaurant into Narragansett up to Mumford Road. Phase 4 will go to it's destination at the South County Museum. Phase 3 is being completed because of our advocacy which generated $2m in "earmarked" Federal transportation funding, along with $4m for other R.I. bike paths by former Senator Chafee. It is important that we all advocate for more earmark dollars in this next round of Federal funding which is presently being drafted.
For complete information about the history of the old Pier Railroad, the Kingston Station, and cultural institutions which are adjacent or nearby the path, refer to these sites as part of this web site or the bike path map. Remember to patronize the dedicated sponsors who have made our map possible as well as the two kiosks which our organization has built. For additional tourism information we recommend the South County Tourism Council (789-4422) which has been one of our strongest supporters since the inception of the path. Contact our organization at 401-783-8886 for questions or additional information about the path
Even though this and other bike paths are called bike paths, they are constructed for the use of everyone regardless of physical capability. Walk, roller blade, jog, or bike and enjoy both the rural as well as the urban quality of the villages. It provides a wonderful opportunity to get away from the hectic pace of our daily schedules and, even daydream.
