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Koopman Lumber is contributing to the well-being of its community members and the environment.
The Massachusetts-based lumber store donated $45,000 to The Blackstone Heritage Corridor, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving, promoting and celebrating the Blackstone Valley’s historic and natural resources. The Blackstone Valley, known as the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, is a region in Massachusetts and Rhode Island connected by the 48-mile Blackstone River.
Koopman Lumber contributed to the Legacy Campaign run by Blackstone Heritage Corridor, a campaign supporting efforts to complete the Blackstone River Greenway/Bikeway. The trail connects Worcester, Massachusetts, and Providence, Rhode Island, and is planned to be completed in three years.
“We are grateful for the generosity and support of Koopman Lumber, a fourth-generation family-owned business with a long tradition of supporting the communities it serves,” says Dennis Rice, Blackstone Heritage Corridor board chair. “With the help of the community and organizations like Koopman Lumber, we have made great strides toward completing the Greenway/Bikeway. We encourage others to join us—and let’s get it done by ’31.”
When completed, the Greenway/Bikeway will be an alternate mode of transportation for commuters and a recreational resource for the region, connecting New England’s second and third largest cities.
The Legacy Campaign is a four-year, $1.3 million campaign initiative launched in 2024 by Blackstone Heritage Corridor. The goal for the campaign is to support key initiatives in addition to completing the Greenway/Bikeway, including growing its volunteer program, telling stories through wayside signage and interpretive panels and strengthening its collaboration with community partners.
“We are happy to support this effort and see our communities continue to grow and thrive,” says Dirk Koopman, Koopman Lumber president and CEO. “This bike path is a meaningful addition that I hope will bring joy to my grandkids and their kids for generations. It’s one more reason we’re proud to call the Blackstone Valley home.”
