EXMORE, VA — The Eastern Shore Rail Trail has taken a major step forward with a $23.2 million federal grant that will extend the popular trail system by 17 miles, project officials announced this week.
The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded the grant to the Accomack-Northampton Planning District Commission, which will use the funds to design and construct a new segment running from Birdsnest to Melfa. An initial phase of $4.8 million has already been allocated.
“This represents a historic moment in our effort to transform the region’s former rail corridor into a modern transportation and recreation asset,” said Ron Wolff, Executive Director of the Eastern Shore of Virginia Rail Trail Foundation.
The federal award brings total project funding to approximately $58 million, according to the foundation. The trail is now fully funded from Cape Charles to Onley, though the northern segment from Onley to Hallwood still requires additional financing.
The Accomack-Northampton Planning District Commission, which successfully applied for the competitive federal grant, will manage the construction project. Canonie Atlantic Company, which owns the former railroad right-of-way, is serving as a key project partner.
When complete, the Eastern Shore Rail Trail will provide a continuous multi-use path connecting communities along Virginia’s Eastern Shore, offering both recreational opportunities and alternative transportation options for residents and visitors.
About the Author
I would love to sign
I am still seething over the school being sold to the developer. We needed that basketball court for winter days…
The elephant in the room that everyone sidesteps is the people running Cape Charles are racist. They look down their…
The hump could be put to great use as a scenic overlook of sorts in our very flat locale should…
Breaking News! Developing Story! Team Coverage! Cape Charles Corruption persists! It's too Late, Money corrupts and has for years. Crooks,…