Tourism from the Elk River Water and Rail Trails can be a significant boost to the economies of the communities all along the trail systems. Area citizens will have an opportunity to hear those recommendations at two public meetings later this month.
The Braxton County Development Authority is working in partnership with the Elk River Trails Foundation, to develop a plan to attract Elk River Rail and Water Trail users to Clendenin, Clay, Gassaway and Sutton. The goal is to capture tourism expenditures, and do so in a manner that does not compromise each community’s unique characteristics. The plan will identify opportunities for new business development, marketing, enhanced access to the trail and community improvements that will make the towns more attractive to visitors.
Plan recommendations for each community will be presented at a series of public meetings being sponsored by the towns, Braxton County Development Authority and the Elk River Trail Foundation. The first local meeting scheduled will be held on Tuesday, August 23 6:00 PM Sutton Fire Department Annex across from the Courthouse on Main Street. There will be a meeting for Gassaway area residents on Monday, August 39th. That gathering will also begin at 6:00 PM and will be held at the Gassaway Community Building on Elk Street.
Meetings are also scheduled for Monday, August 22, 6:00 PM at the Clendenin Town Hall and on Thursday, September 8 at 5:00 PM at Clay Middle School.
The public is encouraged to attend and offer comments on the plan recommendations.