Charleston, WV - Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $1,401,541 from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation Program for the Upper Kanawha Valley Strategic Initiatives Council in Smithers, West Virginia. The funding was made possible through the American Rescue Plan and will support recreational improvements to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, renovations at the Montgomery Marina and construction of the River Cities Trail and Oakland Riverfront Park. The project is expected to create 53 jobs, save 28 jobs and generate $5.6 million in private investment.

"West Virginia continues to see the benefits of the critical American Rescue Planinvestments that drive economic development and create good-paying, long-term jobs," said Senator Joe Manchin. "I'm pleased the EDA is supporting these projects in the Upper Kanawha Valley to strengthen the local economy, expand outdoor recreation opportunities at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and spur sustainable tourism growth. I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this funding for years to come and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue advocating for resources to support economic growth across the Mountain State."

The EDA Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation Program was made possible through the American Rescue Plan and helps accelerate the recovery of the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation industries through targeted local investments. The funding announced today will strengthen the resiliency of the tourism and hospitality industries in the region, which will boost economic growth throughout the entire state.