I wrote this story on Easter break at WCYB. The town of Appalachia held a groundbreaking for a new walking, bicycling and golf cart trail to nearby Big Stone Gap created from an old railroad. It was a project they had been fundraising for for seven years. I attended the groundbreaking and went into town to find a regular person who might benefit. Because it was such a long drive, I wrote the story in my notepad on the ride back to the station.
Appalachia town leaders broke ground today on a new nature trail. It’s the latest trail project in our region making use of old railroad lines.
"We're so very excited for this to kick off today,” Town Manager Fred Luntsford said. “I just can't describe the emotions for the town of Appalachia in having this wonderful trail.”
The nearly two mile long Powell River Trail connecting Appalachia and Big Stone Gap will be completed in three phases. Improvements will be made to two bridges along the trail and to the trail itself. Bathrooms and a train caboose will be added at the trailhead.
Federal funds obtained through the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Bristol office will be used to pay for the project.
"These funds have been a blessing through the years for a lot of these smaller localities," said Matthew Cox, VDOT assistant district administrator for planning and investment.
The trail is considered unique for its two tunnels, Bee Rock Tunnel and Callahan Tunnel. Bee Rock is said to be one of the shortest railroad tunnels in the world. The trail will also allow golf carts in addition to walking and bicycling, allowing everyone to enjoy the outdoors.
"I've always wanted to see bee rock tunnel and walk through it,” resident Kathy Kleineick said. “I'm really excited about that."
The trail is expected to open the second or third week of September. When complete, the trail will connect to Big Stone Gap’s Greenbelt. Appalachia also hopes to start on an ATV recreational trail in the future.
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