Eastern Shore of Virginia

Rail Trail

Eastern Shore Rail Trail Benefits

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The ES Rail Trail has the potential to greatly increase economic development in our region.

Rail trails increase economic development

Studies show trails boost spending at local businesses, encourage revitalization of vacant buildings, create new jobs, increase property values, attract visitors, and more.

The Virginia Capital Trail has an estimated annual impact of $5M and the Virginia Creeper Trail has been an economic driver for towns along the trail. In 2015, the Town of Abingdon estimated that “trail-related tourism revenues stand at about $25 million a year.”