Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
MEADOW BRIDGE/HINTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) made two stops in southern West Virginia today, highlighting the positive economic impacts of the newly redesignated New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.
First, Senator Capito spoke at a ceremony at the Sandstone Visitors Center where she helped unveil National Park and Preserve signs that will be erected along interstates and highways throughout the area. She joined Governor Jim Justice, Congresswoman Carol Miller, and other local leaders for the event. Additionally, TIME Magazine included the New River Gorge National Park as one of the “World’s Greatest Places” of 2021.
“The New River Gorge is truly one of West Virginias crown jewels, and will draw individuals from around the world to see all that our state has to offer,” Senator Capito said. “Today’s event helps marks the culmination of years of hard work toward this goal that has been a major priority for me. This would not be possible without the dedicated support of local leaders here that have diligently seen this redesignation effort through, and it was a pleasure to be here to celebrate this important milestone.”
Following this event, Senator Capito met with Hinton Mayor Jack Scott and other local leaders to discuss potential recreation plans to capitalize on the increased tourism and economic growth that has resulted from the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve’s redesignation. The park has seen a 39% increase in tourism compared to last year, while June marked the best tourism month for the state overall.
“I’m so optimistic about the future benefits the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve will bring to Hinton and the surrounding region,” Senator Capito said. “It was beneficial to meet with Mayor Scott today to discuss ways we can all collaborate to maximize the tourism and economic impact in the area. This means more businesses opening, jobs being created, and people coming to our state, and I’m excited for their future plans!”
BACKGROUND:
In October 2019, Senators Capito and Manchin introduced the New River Gorge Park and Preserve Designation Act, while Congresswoman Miller introduced the companion bill in the House. The legislation will maintain hunting and fishing within the preserve area—areas where sportsmen currently enjoy hunting and fishing. The legislation also specifically protects hunting, fishing, and trapping on privately owned land and will preserve and help grow the vibrant outdoor recreation industry on the New River. The New River Gorge has a long and rich history, which is also preserved through this legislation.
For full text of the legislation, click here.
To view images of the maps, click here.
To view a one-pager on the bill, click here.
For more information on the New River Gorge, click here.
Photos from today’s visit included below:
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) particiaptes in a sign unveiling of the New River National Gorge Natrional Park and Preserve in Meadow Bridge, W.Va. on Friday, July 23, 2021.
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) speaks at a sign unveiling of the New River National Gorge Natrional Park and Preserve in Meadow Bridge, W.Va. on Friday, July 23, 2021.
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