Beckley, WV (WOAY) – Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced $637,000 for sidewalk and trail projects across southern West Virginia during a press conference in Beckley on Friday.
The funding comes through the Transportation Alternatives and Recreational Trails Program, administered by the West Virginia Department of Transportation. Morrisey said the money draws on both state and federal funds.
“We’re announcing today investment of $637,000 for excellent projects right in this region,” Morrisey said.
Fayetteville will receive the largest share at $387,500 to build a Second Avenue pedestrian bridge and fund sidewalk improvements. Beckley will get $125,000 to design new downtown sidewalks along Main Street, and Hinton will receive $75,000 to repair downtown walkways.
At Twin Falls Resort State Park, $50,000 will go toward designing a paved quarter-mile nature trail.
“We’re actually spending money to design a brand new paved quarter mile nature trail right by the lodge. And that’s going to be incredible,” Morrisey said.
The governor says the projects as part of a larger effort to direct spare dollars into local infrastructure.
“You want streets that are paved. You want sidewalks that work … It really connects communities and really makes it easier for people to walk around,” Morrisey said.
Morrisey said communities that missed this round can apply for next year’s funding through the state’s grant portal.
