Blue Creek Rails to Trails!

 

See also the West Virginia Rails-to-Trails Council Trail Listing. This is real!

 

Index

                             January 2009 – Trestle Trail Funding Received!

April 2008Norfolk Southern withdraws abandonment

February 2008 –Grant application and fund-raising are underway!

October 2007 – Summary of the Blue Creek project

August 2007Charleston’s Capitol Conservation District meetings

July 26, 2007 – Dr. Lilley goes to Washington

July 15, 2007 – Rails-to-Trails at the 25th Reunion

August 18, 2006 - Norfolk Southern Right-of-Way Abandonment Environmental Assessment

 

 

 

Update – January 2009 – Charleston Newspapers Announce Trestle Trail Funding

Click here to see the Trestle Trail brochure, with map and everything…!

Also Google –Trestle Trail Charleston – to see a bunch of hits on this event.

Here’s the article, with thanks to Jim O’Dell:

January 6, 2009

 

Trestle project gets grants, needs more; city seeks another $250K

 

With a new $100,000 federal grant, a promised $2 million earmark and earlier commitments for about $1.3 million, backers of the proposed Kanawha Trestle Trail project on Monday reached out for still more money.

 

By Jim Balow

Staff writer

 

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - With a new $100,000 federal grant, a promised $2 million earmark and earlier commitments for about $1.3 million, backers of the proposed Kanawha Trestle Trail project on Monday reached out for still more money.

 

Charleston City Council members approved a resolution Monday that calls for Mayor Danny Jones to sign a $250,000 Transportation Enhancement grant application.

 

The application seeks to tap the same source - federal "TE" funds - that provided $100,000 late last year, said Dennis Strawn, a spokesmen for the group that has been pushing the project for several years.

 

Members of Friends of the Kanawha Trestle Trail hope to convert the 100-year-old abandoned railroad trestle that crosses the Kanawha River near Patrick Street to a hiking and biking bridge that will connect to trails on both sides of the river. On the north side of the river, trails would extend west to North Charleston and east through the West Side.

 

Phase two of the project includes conversion of a second bridge, the old Whipple railroad bridge over the Elk River, and trails to Capitol Market and Laidley Field in the East End.

The friends group is awaiting word from Washington on the status of $2 million that Sen. Robert Byrd, D-W.Va., earmarked last year in the Senate Appropriations Committee. The funding must still be approved by the full Senate and House of Representatives.

 

"I can't even begin to speculate about that," Strawn said Monday. He previously suggested the earmark might stand a better chance of success under a Democratic administration.

Strawn told members of council's Finance Committee that state Highways officials notified him about the $100,000 TE grant on Nov. 21.

 

Each year the Division of Highways divides up a pool of federal TE money to projects across the state. "We're going back to ask for more," he said.

 

"It's an ongoing process. The $250,000 will get us off the trestle and into the West Side," Strawn said.

 

Previously, the group secured $800,000 in federal funds through Rep. Shelley Capito, R-W.Va.; a $475,000 commitment from the city; and about $100,000 from other sources, he said.

 

Also this year, using a $50,000 state participation grant secured by Kanawha County legislators last year, the group plans to do a design study for the East End portion of the trail and the Whipple bridge, Strawn said.

 

 

 

 

 

Update - April 2008 from Dennis Strawn

Norfolk Southern withdraws abandonment

Note: We have asked Dennis if the abandonment could actually be a positive move,

 giving time for funding to get into place and be ready for a later transfer of the right-of-way…

We have invited Randy Allio of Rails-to-Trails to our July, 2008 reunion to give us the latest word

 

Fellow trail supporters,

If you are receiving this email it is because you have shown support for

creating a rail trail on Blue Creek.  Unfortunately at this time the

potential for the trail will not be realized.

 

Norfolk Southern Railroad is withdrawing the Blue Creek abandonment request

with the STB.   The email dialogue below pretty much sums it up.  I will

notify if this situation changes to our benefit.

 

Thanks so much for the help and encouragement everyone has given.

 

Take care

Dennis Strawn

304-347-7703

 

From: Moon, John T.

To: dennis strawn

Cc: Paschall, James R.; Headrick, Kathy, C; Kirchner, Marc C.

04/29/2008 05:23 PM

Subject: RE: Blue Creek Abandonment extension request

 

Dennis,

This pending transaction is reasonably certain.  If it fails to be

completed successfully and NS re-files and abandonment proceeding, your

group can file for a NITU at that time.

 

Given the various projects that your group is pursuing, I suggest

redirecting the grants toward the West Side or Kanawha Trestle projects.

 

John

 

-----Original Message-----

From: dennis strawn

Sent: Monday, April 28, 2008 8:23 AM

To: Moon, John T.

Cc: Paschall, James R.; Headrick, Kathy, C; Kirchner, Marc C.

Subject: RE: Blue Creek Abandonment extension request

 

John,

Unfortunate for us and the local communities.  There was a lot of momentum

building for this the past few months.  Maybe a year too late.  The Elk

River Rails to Trails Foundation will wait and see how this unfolds and see

what the future brings.

 

Is this transfer for certain?  I would like to notify the state about this

change in status because they are going through the review process for

grant funding that we had applied for.  If possible I would like to notify

the appropriate persons.  We may still have a chance to keep this grant

money within the area and see it used on other local projects.  But I do

not want to be premature with my information.

 

Also,  if we don't file the request but NSR does in the future proceed with

abandonment will the Elk River Rails to Trails Foundation be able to seek

NITU at that time?

 

Thanks for all your help and cooperation with this project.  We have

learned a lot and even though this trail may not become a reality we can

use our knowledge to hopefully bring trails and recreational spaces to

other communities.

 

Dennis Strawn

 

-----Reply Message-----

From: Moon, John T.

To: dennis strawn

Cc: Paschall, James R.; Headrick, Kathy, C; Kirchner, Marc C.

04/28/2008 08:04 AM

Subject: RE: Blue Creek Abandonment extension request

 

Dennis:

I think the line is going to be transferred to an operating railroad

company and that the abandonment filing is to be withdrawn. For this

reason, I think that the prudent course of action is to not file an

extension request at this time.

If you have any questions, feel free to call.

John

 

-----Original Message-----

From: dennis strawn

Sent: Monday, April 28, 2008 7:43 AM

To: Moon, John T.

Subject: RE: Blue Creek Abandonment extension request

 

John,

Can this be extended again?  You mentioned back in January that NSR may not

proceed with the abandonment.  Can you advise on our options?

Thanks

Dennis Strawn

 

Brief Update – February, 2008, from Dennis Strawn

Elk River Rails-to-Trails

 

The trail idea is moving along fine.  The county submitted a Transportation

Enhancement grant for $300,000 and the Elk River Rails to Trails Foundation

is submitting a Recreational Trails grant for $80,000.  We have raised

$20,000 for our needed match for the grants and this amount covers it.   We

are also requesting budget funds through our Kanawha County Delegation for

appraisal and design work.   We also have a great need for unrestricted

funds to produce marketing material.

 

In December Michael Baker Jr. performed a preliminary tunnel and bridge

assessment.  He did this pro bono and did very nice work.  Found out that

a few of the last bridges are in various stages of failure so we may

shorten the trail for now.  Other than that no surprises were found and the

conditions are such that only minor repair and rehabilitation will need to

be performed to have residents using the trail.

 

We have an appraiser lined up to perform the appropriate work in the next

month or so.

 

One surprise we did find out was NS is not selling the right of way from

the mouth of Blue Creek.  They are selling from the entrance to the first

tunnel which is about 1 mile up Blue Creek.  I confirmed this with NS.  We

found out when tax maps were being prepared for the grants.  We were

extremely upset  a month ago.  We have calmed down a little and we figured

out how to make it still work.  The trail head will be in Quick now with

access in both directions.

 

October, 2007 – Complete Summary with updates

Blue Creek Rail Trail Project

 

In August 2006 the Rails to Trails Conservancy notified local interested parties that Norfolk Southern (NS) Railroad had applied to the Surface Transportation Board (STB) for abandonment of 12.22 miles of the Hi Top branch.  This would represent half the available line on the Blue Creek watershed, from the mouth at Blue Creek to Acup. 

 

For the complete STB abandonment document:  (note: press CNTL + click over the link)

 

http://www.stb.dot.gov/filings/all.nsf/568e289571e89e16852571c6006b98aa/940b3141267b4790852571b70067364c?OpenDocument.

 

The Elk River Rails to Trails Foundation (ERRTF) contacted NS and found out they are willing to work with the community to acquire the right of way for public trail use.  NS has asked for an appraisal so that purchase negotiations can begin.

 

The Details

 

Blue Creek is located 10 miles north of Charleston.  It is a magnificent stream and runs for roughly 25 miles through the northeast quadrant of Kanawha County with its head waters located in Clay County.  Much of the headwaters was owned for years by the Union Carbide Corporation, which in fact ran 3 camps for its employees located on Blue Creek called Camps Carlisle, Camelot and Galahad.

 

The watershed had a vibrant history of coal mining, oil and gas extraction and timbering.  Today the watershed is dotted with numerous homes, a few stores and churches.  Currently oil and gas activities are on the upswing.

 

Key features include 2 tunnels on the route and well as about 10 bridges where the tracks cross Blue Creek or other feeder streams.  The potential rail trail, though it would pass numerous homes, is predominately rural and would be extremely isolated in places and would allow a user a wonderful escape from urban life.  Numerous small communities are encountered along the way: Blue Creek, Three Mile, Victor, Schrader, Coco, Pentacre, Quick, Sanderson Acup, Kendalia, Pond Fork, Blakely, Amelia and Hi Top.

 

The watershed is suitable for fishing, canoeing, bird watching, hiking, bicycling and equestrians activities.  In the winter months cross country skiing would be available too since this area of Kanawha County receives proportionately more snow than Charleston.

 

An interesting feature of this trail is the potential to link Charleston with other abandoned rail lines going down the Elk River and linking Cedar Grove via Mammoth and Hi Top with abandoned rail lines on Kellys Creek.

 

What’s been done

 

Discussions with Congresswoman Capito’s office have taken place.  The congresswoman is very supportive and wants to be kept informed of the progress on the project.  Kanawha County Delegate Tim Armstead, representing this area, has been informed.  Kanawha County Parks and Recreation (KCPR) has been notified of this developing project.  State officials are encouraging the local supporters to apply for Transportation Enhancement and Recreational Trail Grants.


 

ERRTF hosted a driving tour of the rail right of way.  Present were representatives from the National Park Service, Rails to Trails Conservancy, West Virginia Department Environmental Protection and WVDOH Trails program.  All were encouraged to the potential for a very interesting trail.

 

ERRTF presented plans for the trail at the 25th year Carbide Camp Reunion. Robert Lilley, one of the reunion organizers, and other former Carbiders are extremely interested in helping this project succeed.  Mr. Lilley has since discussed this project with the Rails to Trails Conservancy and the National Park Service, further raising the exposure for this tremendous project.

 

ERRTF has approached the Capitol Conservation District (CCD) to be a fiscal sponsor for any grant funding we are successful in obtaining. The CCD was open and receptive to the trail idea.  The subcommittee formed to explore their options has voted to approve acting as fiscal agent for seeking grants for this project.

 

After conversations with Bill Robinson, WV State Trail Coordinator, it has been suggested that ERRTF submit requests for both Transportation Enhancement (TE) and Recreational Trails grant programs for the 2008 funding cycle.  Deadlines are November 15, 2007 and December 15, 2007 respectively. 

 

ERRTF was asked to make a presentation to the Central West Virginia Convention & Visitors Bureau.  We explained the potential for the trail and were successful in receiving a grant for $10,000.00 to use as matching funds if our TE and Rec Trail grants are successful.

 

ERRTF made a presentation to the West Virginia State Rail Authority.  ERRTF asked WVSRA to consider helping the project by railbanking the right of way under WV laws. They agreed to help ERRTF by purchasing the right of way, with funds ERRTF or others provide, and leasing the right of way as a recreational trail. 

 

Though many supportive comments have been fielded for the Blue Creek Rail Trail project one negative aspect that has come up a few times is the flooding problem caused by debris caught in the bridge structures.   This debris, mostly woody materials and some trash, has been accumulating on the upstream side of these structures every year since the railroad ceased active operations over 20 years ago.  Our strong belief is that with the development of the trail these bridges will be cleaned of debris and will be maintained in the future to minimize this problem.

Please join us in supporting this outstanding trail project for the local residents and others who will come to this trail to enjoy the scenery, to exercise, or get away from busy urban life.

 

For more info contact:   Randy Allio

                                    Chairman, Elk River Rails to Trails Foundation

                                    PO Box 5556

                                    Charleston, WV 25361

                                    304-344-1885

 

 

 

August 15, 2007

Hi everyone,

 

The Elk River Rail to Trails Foundation reps, Randy and I, met with the Capitol Conservation District (CCD) this morning.  The meeting went well.  The CCD had some questions about the bridges on the right of way.  They did agree to form a committee and meet again Oct 3 to discuss becoming involved with the project.

 

I have attached a summary of the project for your review.

Thanks

Dennis Strawn

Application Developer II

304-347-7703

 

Summary

 

Blue Creek is located 10 miles north of Charleston.  It is a magnificent stream and runs for roughly 25 miles through the northeast quadrant of Kanawha County with its head waters located in Clay County.  Much of the headwaters were owned for years by the Union Carbide Corporation, which in fact ran 2 camps for its employees located on Blue Creek called Camps Carlisle and Camelot. [The local Diabetes Association built camp Galahad about 1956, and held “Camp KnoKoma” there, also on the Creek. Since then, it has been the site of many support activities for children with special needs. Galahad is now run by a church group, and is known as Camp Joshua Scott. – R. Lilley]

 

The watershed had a vibrant history of coal mining, oil and gas extraction and timbering.  Today the watershed is dotted with numerous homes, a few stores and churches.  Currently oil and gas activities are on the upswing.

 

The potential rail trail, though it would pass numerous homes, is predominately rural and would be extremely isolated in places and allow a user a wonderful escape from urban life.  There are 2 tunnels on the route and well as about 10 bridges where the tracks cross Blue Creek or other feeder streams.  Numerous small communities are encountered along the way: Blue Creek, Three Mile, Victor, Schrader, Coco, Pentacre, Quick, Sanderson Acup, Kendalia, Pond Fork, Blakely, Amelia and Hi Top.

 

The watershed is suitable for fishing, canoeing, bird watching, hiking, bicycling and equestrians activities.  In the winter months cross country skiing would be available too since this area of Kanawha County receives proportionately more snow than Charleston.

 

An interesting feature of this trail is the potential to link Charleston with other abandoned rail lines going down Elk River and linking Cedar Grove via Mammoth and Hi Top with abandoned rail lines on Kellys Creek.          

 

Time Line

 

August 2006 – Rails to Trails Conservancy notified interested parties that Norfolk Southern (NS) Railroad had applied to the Surface Transportation Board (STB) for abandonment of 12.22 miles of the Hi Top branch.  This would represent half the available line on the watershed, from the mouth at Blue Creek to Sanderson.

 

STB abandonment document:

http://www.stb.dot.gov/filings/all.nsf/568e289571e89e16852571c6006b98aa/940b3141267b4790852571b70067364c?OpenDocument

 

August 2006 – Dennis Strawn contacted NS and found out they are willing to work with the Elk River Rails to Trails Foundation (ERRTF) to acquire the right of way for trail public use.

 

August 1006 – Dennis Strawn met with Kanawha County Parks and Recreation (KCPR) representatives.  Present were:

Jeff Hutchinson – Director, KCPR

Tom Rader – KCPR

Bill Robinson – West Virginia DOH, Statewide Trail Coordinator

Discussion revolved around the county parks not having money to embark on the development of a new park in Kanawha County.  The KCPR thought it was a good project but one they would not take the lead on.  

 

September 2006 – ERRTF petitioned the STB to grant the organization a public use condition and notice of interim trail use and ask NS to work with ERRTF.  Cost was $300.00.

 

October 2006 – STB granted ERRTF the right to work with NS on a trail.  ERRTF asked NS for a donation of the land.  NS stated they will convey the right of way and asked ERRTF to get an appraiser to set a selling price.

 

October 2006 – Talked with Bill Robinson and Jim Hudson (DOH, trail coordinators) about funding possibilities.  They are encouraged about the potential for funding this worth while project.

 

November 2006 – Randy Allio, Chairman of ERRTF, and Dennis Strawn talked with Roger Lipscomb, president of TracSpec Railroad Corporation, to find an appraiser.

 

December 2006 – Randy Allio and Dennis Strawn hosted a tour of the right way.  Five hours were spent walking the tracks and talking to local residents.  The following persons attended:

Peggy Pings – National Park Service

Kelly Pack – Rails to Trails Conservancy

Dennis Stottlemyer – West Virginia Department Environmental Protection

Jim Hudson – Community Development Specialist, DOH Trails program

 

January 2007 – Currently looking for a fiscal sponsor to pursue funding for this wonderful project.

 

March 2007 – ERRTF mailed letter to the STB requesting an extension to the abandonment proceedings.  Cost was $250.00.  NS has replied in approval to the extension.

 

March 2007 - Robert Lilley and friends, all former Carbiders are extremely interested in helping this project succeed.  They will be in town July 13-15 for the 25th anniversary celebrating the Carbide Camps.

 

April 2007 – Major Tim Mewes, WV Air Nat’l Guard has expressed interest in lending his support and expertise for the project.

 

July 2007 – Randy Allio, Marty Weirick and Dennis Strawn presented plans for the trail at the 25th year Carbide Camp Reunion.  Robert Lilley has spoken with National Rails to Trails and the National Park Service on behalf of this project.

 

Aug 2007 – Randy and Dennis gave a presentation to the Capitol Conservation District.  The CCD was open and receptive to the trail idea.  They agreed to form a subcommittee to explore their options on being a fiscal agent for seeking Transportation Enhancement (TE) grants.  There was some concern about the bridges causing flooding and we will need to address this issue because it seems to be a valid one. 

---------------------------------------------------------------

July 25, 2007

Pictures are below.

 

Bob and Ellen Lilley visited in Washington, DC with David Barna, former camper and now head of communications for the National Park Service. His brother Tom Barna, also a former camper, is also in Washington as the landscape architect at the White House. We camps alumni are in good company! David expressed support for the Blue Creek project and Randy Allio, Dennis Strawn and Marty Wierich’s efforts at local rail-to-trail on the Creek.

 

Note that David brought some camps memorabilia with him and will be scanning/sending for us. He said Tom would do the same.

 

Kelly Pack, at the national office of Rails-to-Trails, also offered the group’s support for Blue Creek, and will be in touch with the local group (Randy, Dennis and Marty). She had a brochure on the desk (more about that later, maybe) titled “Kanawha Trestle Trail” – Do you suppose that could be a conversion of the old, old railroad bridge across the Kanawha River east of Patrick Street? [Yes it is…] That trestle used to carry street cars to Luna Park in Charleston. You can still see some evidence of the park in the weird pattern of the streets in the part of town near the trestle’s north end.

 

..

 

---------------------------------------------------------------

July 15, 2007

 

Three representatives of this organization were our guests at the Reunion 2007 Coonskin Park picnic, Sunday, July 15! They discussed possibilities and probabilities regarding the future of Blue Creek and its historic railroads.

 

We heard Dennis Strawn, Randy Allio and Marty Wierich discuss what might turn out to be the most exciting recent development on the Creek!

 

Visit www.carbidecamps.net often to see new information as we receive it.

 

 

 

Randy Allio outlines Rails-to-Trails Activities      and takes questions.

 

   

 

Randy Rice and Dennis Strawn enjoy lunch       and Dennis “works the room”.

 

 

Randy Allio and Marty Wierich join in for lunch.