SW Virginia News

Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) has announced that the Town of Big Stone Gap has received a grant of $1,221,100 from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). The grant, awarded through the Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative, will be used for the Big Cherry Regional Recreation Enhanced Infrastructure Project. This project aims to enhance outdoor recreation amenities and expand lodging options within the Big Cherry Reservoir Recreation area.

In a statement, Congressman Griffith expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the significance of the Big Cherry Reservoir as a popular tourist destination in Southwest Virginia. He said, "Big Cherry Reservoir is one of the many beautiful sites in Southwest Virginia, attracting a number of visitors every year. These funds awarded by ARC will allow the Big Cherry Reservoir to expand their camping and lodging amenities to accommodate more visitors to the recreation area."

The improvements funded by the ARC grant will not only benefit the local community but also contribute to the economic growth of the region. By enhancing the recreational facilities and increasing lodging options, the project aims to attract more visitors to the Big Cherry Reservoir Recreation area. This, in turn, will create new job opportunities and generate additional revenue for the local businesses.

The Big Cherry Regional Recreation Enhanced Infrastructure Project aligns with the ARC's mission to promote community and economic development in the Appalachian region. Through the POWER Initiative, the ARC aims to support projects that enhance workforce training, create new employment opportunities, and improve the quality of life for the residents of Appalachia.

With the grant funding secured, the Town of Big Stone Gap can now move forward with the infrastructure improvements at the Big Cherry Reservoir Recreation area. The exact details of the enhancements have not been provided in the statement, but it is expected that the project will focus on upgrading camping facilities, expanding lodging options, and improving overall visitor experience.

The announcement of this grant comes as welcome news for the residents of Big Stone Gap and the surrounding communities. The Big Cherry Reservoir Recreation area holds great potential for attracting more tourists and boosting the local economy. With the support of the ARC and Congressman Griffith, the Town of Big Stone Gap can now embark on this exciting project to enhance the recreational offerings in the region.

In conclusion, the Appalachian Regional Commission has awarded the Town of Big Stone Gap a grant of $1,221,100 through the POWER Initiative. This funding will be used for the Big Cherry Regional Recreation Enhanced Infrastructure Project, aimed at improving outdoor recreation amenities and expanding lodging options within the Big Cherry Reservoir Recreation area. Congressman Griffith emphasized the importance of this project in attracting more visitors to the region and supporting the local economy. With the grant secured, the Town of Big Stone Gap can now proceed with the necessary improvements to enhance the visitor experience at the Big Cherry Reservoir Recreation area.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402938