Russ Janvier stood inside Crescent Yacht Club in Bradford as the Merrimack River reflected the clear blue sky outside. His face was aglow because a dream he has had for his beloved city since 1995 is one step closer to becoming a reality.

On Monday state officials announced that $400,000 has been secured from the state to buy the rail bed in Bradford.

For years Janvier, other Haverhill citizens and civic leaders have been working to make the abandoned railroad tracks along the Merrimack River into the perfect place for a picturesque New England jaunt. "It makes me feel good," said the 66-year Bradford resident. "It's exciting."

If the purchase goes through, the Bradford Rail-Trail project would connect the newly opened Comeau Bridge and the Basiliere Bridge with the Riverfront Boardwalk in Haverhill, creating a 2.5-mile stretch for walking and nonmotorized recreation.

The money came from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs capital project plan, which set aside a pool of money for land acquisitions for greenway projects.

Ian Bowles, secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, said he worked closely with local officials to get the money and admired their dedication to bettering the area for the residents they serve.

"It's no overstatement that you have the best and the hardest working legislators in the Commonwealth," said Bowles.

Along with the $400,000 from the state, Mayor James Fiorentini said he believes funds from the private sector — Crescent Yacht Club and Greater Haverhill Foundation — will be added to the $400,000 to hopefully seal the purchase from Pan Am Railways.

The tracks, laid in 1851, have not seen any train traffic in more than 30 years. The line belongs to the Boston and Maine Corp. and the Springfield Terminal Railway, which are owned by Pan Am Railways.

The company filed for abandonment with the federal government, which will allow it to sell off the railway as they see fit. Rep. Brian S. Dempsey said Pan Am is negotiating with several entities and will entertain an offer from the city. "We're delighted to announce this today," said Dempsey.

"Hopefully this will bring family activity and economic action to Haverhill," said Rep. Barbara L'Italien.

"This will go a long way in making Haverhill an even better city to live in and enjoy," said Sen. Steven Baddour.

"People here have dreamt of a rail trail for decades," said Fiorentini. "Other things need to be done, but the vision we've had for years is one step closer."

Fiorentini championed Dempsey and Baddour for tracking down and securing the funds.