It looks like the timeline has been pushed to maybe February. Here's the latest project update from VTrans that I received via email last week (you can sign up for their mailing list for updates):

>CONSTRUCTION UPDATE: October 2022
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>PROJECT TYPE: Rail to Trail Conversion
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>PROJECT LOCATION: LVRT Rail Trail Corridor
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>PROJECT UPDATES: An exciting milestone along the LVRT occurred in September with the completion of construction on 6 bridges throughout the corridor that were identified as a priority due to the crucial connections they provide on the trail.
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>Trail construction work on the Danville to Hardwick and Cambridge to Sheldon segments is entering the final stages and completion of the majority of the work is expected in December 2022. The majority of work in the Hardwick to Morristown segment will also be complete in December 2022, although work at two locations in this segment will extend to February 2023.
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>Although some sections of the LVRT that were constructed this summer may appear complete, these three segments are still under active construction and not open to the public. VTrans will release a formal statement as each segment opens up for public use, in the meantime please limit LVRT use to the open trail segments shown on this map.
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>LVRT PROJECT COMPLETION: Winter 2023

You might be able to find some good color sticking around in protected low-lying areas near Lake Champlain. I was at Shelburne Farms a few days ago and the maples were still gorgeous and even had a few patches of green. It’s a nice place to walk. But even if the trees are bare when you come, there’s still lots to do and enjoy.