the Issue:
It’s Purpose is Lost.
Reason of Objection:
The new trail design completely leaves out Eagle Rock, which was a main reason for this trail development to begin with. VDOT has really missed the mark on this one.
A solution:
Start the trail near Eagle Rock instead of miles away in a direction that takes users no where near town. If there is not enough money to do the entire 26 miles, the trail should be split. One section that lengthens the current trail in New Castle, and another section that starts in Eagle Rock.
Lost opportunity for Eagle Rock
Eagle Rock lies in a precarious location. You must drive off Route 220 to get to get to it. If you have no reason to take the exit for Eagle Rock, you will never even know it exists.
Last Lock Park was a spot that VDOT was considering earlier for a trail head. To get to this park, you take the exit for Eagle Rock. It would HIGHLY increase the chance for tourism dollars to be spent in the town.
The RR bridge over the James River
Another significant factor is the unique RR bridge that is right there along Route 220. A unique landmark within view of route 220. Even if a person doesn’t use multi-use trails, this would be something that a traveler would be interested in for a short stop to see, and then grab a meal in Eagle Rock. It’s all about getting vehiclur traffic to use the exit, and even a short trail would encourage that.
Where’s the politicians in all this?
The main reason for this trail was to be an economic driver for both Eagle Rock and New Castle. Our Delegate Terry Austin had said it is crucial for them. The trail is NOT going to do that when you by-pass Eagle Rock with this design. As per the meeting with our Delegate, “most would use a shorter trail”.
Put a trailhead in Eagle Rock at Last Loc Park. Do it now! Don’t wait for another round of money that may never come.
Re-Shuffle the Design
It would be possible to take away the trail development from the current ending spot in the Parr area. Eliminate enough of the trail backwards until there is enough money saved to create a trail over the James River bridge from Last Lock Park.
If you want to play the “what’s fair” card, then split the $20 Million between the two. $10 Million for Eagle Rock, and $10 Million for New Castle.
Act Now !
Use the above “objection & Solution” to formulate your own response with this topic. Be sure to say “I oppose” or “I do not support this design because” ( or something similar to that).
There is an active link below to send comments. Some computers have security features that block the use of the email button. When that happens, you need to use your regular email service and type in the email address given below.
Be sure to include in the Subject Title….
“Craig Botetourt Scenic Trail: Comment“
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You can also mail Comments to:
VDOT: Mr. Kelly Dunn
Craig Botetourt Scenic Trail; Comment
731 Harrison Ave.
Salem , VA. 24153