Project Name
Economic Promise on the Potomac – Strengthening Canal and Trail Town Economies in Western Maryland and West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle
Mode
TSO (as part of the Eastern Panhandle Regional Planning and Development Council - Region 9)
Grant Program
Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE)
Federal Funding Request
$500,000
Federal Fiscal Year
2026
Project Description: The project will advance coordinated planning and feasibility activities to strengthen regional tourism assets and multimodal connectivity in Allegany County, Maryland, and Morgan County, West Virginia. The 18-month effort includes a feasibility assessment and bridge inspection for WMRT Bridge #6 to evaluate its potential transformation into a scenic overlook and improve connections to MD Route 51 and the C&O Canal Towpath. It also includes preliminary engineering and NEPA analyses for improvements to the high-demand Paw Paw Campground, such as expanded campsites, parking lot upgrades, utility enhancements, and better non-motorized access. Region 9 and the National Park Service will conduct community engagement to ensure local insights inform design and development priorities. These activities aim to position the region to pursue future construction funding, improve visitor safety, expand recreational capacity, and support economic vitality across nearby trail and canal towns.
Project Narrative