Learn@Lunch LC Trails Initiative

Lewis County Economic Development Director Ray Smith and WV Trails Executive Director Sam England met with community members today to discuss the proposed non-motorized trail system connecting Morgantown to Charleston, with a focus on the planned trail segments in Lewis County.

Smith explained that work on the regional trail network has been underway for more than eight years. The vision is to create a continuous system of connected trails by linking existing trail segments and developing new sections where gaps currently exist. Of the proposed route, approximately 60% is already a public use trail.   Of the remaining 40%, there is an identified abandoned rail corridor on the overwhelming majority in the planning and development stages. 

In Lewis County, the proposed trail would take advantage of existing rail corridors from Jane Lew to Jackson's Mill and into Weston. The route would incorporate the City of Weston's riverfront project and provide a connection between downtown Weston and Lewis County High School. 

Once connected to Stonewall Resort, trail users would have access to approximately 20 miles of existing trails within the US Army Corps of Engineers Wildlife area.  The intent would be to connect Stonewall Resort to the Weston-Gauley Bridge Turnpike Trail, which ultimately links to the existing Elk River Trail- which has shown success.

England shared an impressive economic statistic demonstrating the potential impact of trail development.  Recent economic data indicates that communities located along the Greater Allegheny Passage (GAP) generate an average of $800,000 economic impact annually per year per mile from trail-related activity, providing a significant boost to local economies.  The GAP economic impact study also revealed that it supports more than 1,800 jobs regionally.  

Following the presentation, England and Smith answered questions from attendees, many of whom expressed enthusiasm for the project and a desire to support its development. The discussion highlighted the growing community interest in expanding recreational opportunities while creating new economic development possibilities and enhanced community livability for Lewis County.

A special thank you to our host, Stonewall Sporting Clays, for welcoming the Chamber while actively expanding their facilities. During our visit, crews were literally pouring concrete for a new pavilion that will further enhance the guest experience.

The new pavilion will feature a welcoming gathering space complete with a fire pit and stone fireplace, creating the perfect setting for participants to relax, network, and share stories after competitions.  The existing pavilion will be converted into a retail center.    

Stonewall Sporting Clays is home to a championship-caliber shooting sports complex and a world-class archery competition course. The addition of the new retail center will further establish the facility as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and competitive shooting sports in the region.