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Regional Economic,
Community and Tourism
Development
Projects Underway: Outdoor Recreation - Phase 2
8. Appalachian Trail Center:
a. In 2015, the Town of Damascus was awarded funding for a downtown revitalization
through a Community Development Block Grant. Additionally, in 2016, the town was
awarded an Appalachian Regional Commission grant for the development of a
downtown “river walk” including public facilities and amenities. The Appalachian Trail
Center, a POWER-funded project, is a destination center at the heart of these other two
projects. It will serve as an orientation point for visitors drawn to the town. It will
provide a destination to give visitors direction and ideas for the many recreational
activities and hospitality offerings available to them during their stay. The Appalachian
Trail Conservancy will be responsible for programming and staffing the center once
constructed.
Project Completion Date: December 2019
9. Spearhead Trails – 3 Trail Technicians:
a. Funding was allocated to support the employment of three Trail Technicians for two
years with Spearhead Trails. This funding provides additional support to the Haysi to
Breaks Trail project. These trail technicians will be working directly on the construction
of the proposed trail and then on its maintenance once complete. They are currently
working on the development and upkeep of other hiking and biking trails in Southwest
Virginia.
Project Completion Date: December 2018