Essex Heritage provides leadership to a coalition of stakeholders developing the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway. The 90-mile roadway links 14 coastal communities from Lynn to Salisbury and features scenic views, period architecture, historic sites and recreational opportunities. With the twin goals of preserving the byway’s intrinsic qualities and spurring investment in its infrastructure, attractions and amenities, Essex Heritage worked to secure state scenic byway designation and federal funding for a comprehensive management plan that is guiding community and regional leaders in their efforts to implement tourism-based economic development.

Initiated by Essex Heritage and the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, a transportation planning study of the Rt. 127A/127 corridor in the communities of Gloucester and Rockport was completed in April 2014 by the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization. MPO staff examined current conditions along a 15-mile section of the Byway and made recommendations regarding enhanced safety, bicycle and pedestrian improvements and access to public transportation.