TRAIL TOWNS, AMENITIES, & WAYFINDING Rail-trails can have a big impact on community and economic development.  The economic impact of rail-trails and trail tourism has been proven across the country. Making the most of the rail-trails in our communities means making them easy to find, welcoming and hospitable.  This can lead to more tourists as … Read more

The “Trail-Building Toolkit” is an interactive Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) website, and is a valuable resource for understanding the process of going from acquisition to designing and building rail-trails. http://www.railstotrails.org/build-trails/trail-building-toolbox/ Topics include- Developing in Sensitive Areas, Designing for User Type, Accessiblity, Surfaces, Crossings, Bridges, Tunnels and Underpasses. In addition, the RTC has free Reports to download … Read more

The Rails to Trails Conservancy has several printable fact sheets on the benefits of rail-trails and how to make the case for funding.  http://www.railstotrails.org/resource-library/ Partnerships are an asset.  If you are a government agency, encourage the start up of a non-profit, friends of the trail organization.  If you are a non-profit, develop stronger relationships with … Read more

The “Trail-Building Toolkit” is an interactive Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) website, and is a valuable resource for understanding the process of going from acquisition to designing and building rail-trails. http://www.railstotrails.org/build-trails/trail-building-toolbox/ In addition, the RTC has free Reports to download that give specific guidance on rail-trail planning, development, and maintenance.  http://www.railstotrails.org/resource-library/ Reason for Rail-Trails The existence for … Read more

There are groups around the state that are working on developing rail-trails in their communities.  These rail-trails are in various stages of completion ranging from planning and negotiating easements, raising funds, to hiring engineers and contractors for construction.  We encourage you to find a group in your community and get involved. Kanawha Trestle Rail-Trail Meadow … Read more

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Rail-Trails are built and managed by a variety of organizations and agencies in West Virginia.  In acquiring and building new rail-trail, this gives a range of options for any new rail-trails in the state to model. Management Options: City managed examples- Wheeling Heritage Trails, White Oak Rail-Trail, and Little Kanawha Connector Trail, managed by the … Read more