ACCOMACK COUNTY, Va. — Plans to transform a portion of the former Bay Coast Railroad into a multi-use trail are moving forward, as the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) begins environmental review of a key segment between Melfa and Onley.
The proposed 4.2-mile stretch is part of the broader Eastern Shore Rail to Trail initiative and would create a 10-foot-wide, bi-directional shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists. The trail would begin near the intersection of Route 13 (Lankford Highway) and Parkway Road in Melfa and extend north to East Main Street in Onley.
According to Virginia Department of Transportation, the project is currently undergoing review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) as a Categorical Exclusion, a process used for projects expected to have minimal environmental impact.
Trail Features and Improvements
In addition to the trail itself, the project includes several safety and infrastructure upgrades:
- Six paved, unsignalized roadway crossings
- Three new shared-use crossings at Main Street, Philips Drive, and East Main Street
- Pedestrian crossing improvements and signal upgrades at key Route 13 intersections
- Evaluation of pedestrian lighting conditions in Melfa
- Two new northbound right-turn lanes along Route 13
- A new bus stop, trailhead, and parking area near Onley
Officials say these additions are designed to improve safety and accessibility while supporting local transportation and recreation.
Public Review and Input
Once the environmental review document is completed, it will be made available at VDOT’s Hampton Roads District Office in Suffolk and the Accomac Residency Office. A 10-day public review period will follow, announced through a separate notice.
Residents who want a more formal opportunity to provide input may request a public hearing. Written requests must be submitted to VDOT by May 5, 2026. If sufficient interest is expressed, a hearing will be scheduled and publicly announced.
Access to Project Information
Project materials are available for in-person review at:
- VDOT Hampton Roads District Office in Suffolk
- VDOT Accomac Residency Office in Accomac County
Officials recommend calling ahead to ensure staff availability.
Looking Ahead
The Eastern Shore Rail to Trail project aims to repurpose unused rail corridors into safe, accessible pathways that connect communities while promoting outdoor activity and alternative transportation. If approved, the Melfa-to-Onley segment would mark another step toward expanding trail access across Virginia’s Eastern Shore.
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