The state's Department of Conservation and Recreation  has awarded a grant  to the Bay State Trail Riders Association  and the Franklin and Bellingham Rail Trail Committee  for improvements to local sections of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail. The funds will be used toward the purchase and installation of gates  at both trail entrances on Lake Street; and for grading, brush cutting, and other improvements  on the trail between Lake  and Center streets. For more information, visit the town’s website, www.bellinghamma.org.