La Rocco said the Blueway Trail could be a catalyst for communities that were devastated by the storm. “In the aftermath of Sandy,” she said, “the development of the South Shore Blueway Trail can play a key role in restoring, protecting and promoting South Shore communities and waterfronts by connecting residents and visitors to natural, cultural and recreational resources and help to strengthen local economies.”

Trip finished, for now

As I paddled among the Spartina grass mudflats around Middle Bay on that late-October day, maneuvering through a winding canal, I was surrounded by nature. The water was quiet and peaceful. When I finished the tour of Middle Bay, I told myself that I would start kayaking more, and with the Blueway Trail in the works, it looks like that won’t be hard to do.