Across the Mountain State, trails for walking, hiking and biking play an important role in local economies and community health.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., is among those in Congress currently spearheading efforts to pass the country’s next Surface Transportation Act, which supports efforts to maintain those trails. Current Biden-era funding expires this September.

Sam England, executive director of the advocacy group West Virginia Trail, said federal dollars are critical for ensuring access to trails.

"It's the only funding that's available from the state in West Virginia; there is no funding for trails," England explained. "It is all “pass through” dollars from the federal government through these two programs."

West Virginia’s outdoor recreation generates around $9 billion in economic impact throughout the state, mainly through jobs and tourism.

William Lanham, assistant city manager of the city of Wheeling, said their local heritage trails are extremely popular for bicycling and walking. He highlighted two longer trails tracing former railroad lines, which connected the region to Baltimore and Ohio. He said quality of life in the area has dramatically improved since the trails were built.

"They are about 18 miles of former railroad tracks that now provide paved connectivity throughout our city," Lanham explained. "They run along the Ohio River."

Walking paths are also a safety issue. According to data from the Governor’s Highway Association, pedestrian deaths have reached a 40-year high, with more than 7,500 people killed by drivers while walking in 2022. Safe, designated walking paths can help prevent such tragedies.

Source: Public News Service