Commentary: Preserving history and promoting recreation: Shenandoah Rail Trail
A rail to trail is more than just a pathway; it is a conduit for connection, bridging the gap between past and present, nature and civilization. It invites us to explore, to learn, and to forge new memories against the backdrop of history.
Commentary: 'Just say no'
“Just say no” said Nancy Reagan.
That sentiment applies today for the plan to rebuild and run trains along the "removed from service" old railroad connecting Front Royal to Broadway.
Project Under Threat
We recently learned that the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation has entered into a Letter of Intent with Norfolk Southern to purchase the rail corridor. Evidently they intend to use the $35 million allocated for the Shenandoah Rail Trail for a different project.
Help us build the Shenandoah Rail Trail - Send a Message Today
Great news! The amended budget signed by Governor Youngkin on September 14, 2023, included language supporting the Shenandoah Rail Trail.
But the work is not done. Officials need to move forward with the project.
Ask state legislators & Governor Youngkin to take the next steps toward a Shenandoah Rail Trail!
State budget allocates $35 million to Shenandoah Rail Trail project
The Shenandoah Valley Rail Trail project is set to receive $35 million in state funding thanks to budget amendments passed by the Virginia legislature on Wednesday.
Friends of the Shenandoah Rail Trail announced Wednesday afternoon that the budget allocation will be used for land acquisition, initial planning and site development of the project that will create a multi-use trail through Warren, Shenandoah, and Rockingham counties.
Shenandoah Rail Trail Funding in the Royal Examiner
In an unprecedented show of unity, mayors across nine towns and three counties have hailed the Virginia state legislators for approving budget amendments that will finally bring the Shenandoah Rail Trail to life. Slated to be a 50-mile multi-use trail, the project promises to be more than just a scenic jaunt; it’s a conduit for economic development, community interaction, and conservation.
Neighboring Rail Trail Landowners and the “Taking” Claim
It has come to our attention that many property owners adjacent to the rail corridor are being contacted by law firms about the possibility of joining a lawsuit seeking compensation from the Federal Government for any property that might have been “taken” when the Shenandoah Rail Corridor was built in the 1850’s.
State Funding & Securing the Corridor for Future Public Benefit
After the long-awaited approval of the state budget, we are excited to announce there is over $90 million set aside for trails. This historic investment in multi-use trails will boost the development of new multi-use trails and increase access in communities across Virginia.
Tell legislators you support investment in multi-use trails like the Shenandoah Rail Trail.
With a positive feasibility study published by the state, a promising economic impact analysis AND the owner of the corridor seeking a buyer, NOW is the time to act to make a multi-use Shenandoah Rail Trail connecting communities from Broadway to Front Royal a reality.
A Shenandoah Rail Trail IS feasible!
A study conducted by state agencies found that a Shenandoah Rail Trail IS feasible and also that there is overwhelming support for the concept.
Economic Impact of a Shenandoah Rail Trail
In addition to all the expected community benefits the trail will offer, Shenandoah Valley communities also stand to benefit economically.
Connections in the making
Communities along the proposed route have already begun to envision their towns with a Shenandoah Valley Rail Trail.
How did this get started?
The idea of converting the unused north-south rail corridor in Shenandoah and Rockingham counties to a multi-use trail was sparked back in 2016 when the town of Woodstock formed the Woodstock Exploratory Rails to Trails Committee.
Shenandoah Valley Rail Trail Feasibility Study Authorized by General Assembly
The feasibility study is an important next step in the ongoing exploration of converting the discontinued rail line into a multi-purpose trail.
Action in the General Assembly on Shenandoah Rail Trail
On Thursday August 27, Delegate Tony Wilt (R-Harrisonburg) will speak about an amendment authorizes DCR to conduct a feasibility study for a rail trail in the Northern Shenandoah Valley.
Proposed Rail-Trail to have positive impact on Shenandoah Valley communities
Rail-trails and many of the compatible businesses that emerge along these corridors contribute significantly to local economics.