ENHANCEMENT

Fayette, Kanawha and Raleigh counties already have established tourism industries with developed and accessible sites marketed on a regional basis. Major transportation corridors move visitors to these sites via US Route 19 and Interstate 64/77. Paint Creek and its resources are easily accessible these corridors.

From its headwaters in Raleigh County to the mouth at the Kanawha River, Paint Creek parallels county roads which are accessible to major transportation routes. Unlike these high volume interstate corridors, visitors are able to come into more intimate contact with the recreational, scenic, natural, cultural and historical opportunities along Paint Creek.  Based upon what is already in place and available along Paint Creek visitors can fish, boat, bike and camp. They can travel along a route which reflects Native American, agricultural and mining histories. At an unhurried pace, visitors can experience small town life and local culture and events. This plan for Paint Creek Scenic Byways provides for alternative visitor experiences in the region while augmenting and expanding upon existing efforts.

We project that enhancements would be in the form of infrastructure improvements, tourism initiatives, and development of future planning and might include, but not be limited to, the following:

• upgrades to existing traffic pullouts and development of additional areas which ensures the safety of visitors accessing recreational and scenic areas
• improvements and maintenance of the Scenic Byway Corridor
• development of visitor amenities including camping, parking, restrooms, water, etc.
• development of an interpretive and marketing plans which would provide informational products such as maps, brochures, informational kiosks and signs telling the story of Paint Creek
• initiating, building, and developing partnerships between local and county, state, regional and federal entities
• improvement of access to hiking trails, fishing areas and scenic areas
• increased business development and jobs related to tourism

• trash pickup and beautification projects

PROTECTION

Community organizations will be asked to supply ideas and developmental strategies, thereby securing protection by having a stake in the outcome of the by-way. In turn, they will be encouraged to participate which will encourage future interest and participation.

We believe that this proposal and the subsequent planning involved should promote sustainable economic growth. Appropriate and proportional development should be determined by the citizens and communities along the route and strive to encourage promotion and protection of the intrinsic qualities which attract visitors.

MANAGEMENT ISSUES         

Management issues may include:

• developing and maintaining community support
• developing and maintaining funding
• developing and maintaining an actively engaged Byways committee

OUTLINE FOR DEVELOPMENT OF A CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN

I.     Form permanent committee to draft governing by-laws within 120 days              

II .   Select name for trail

III.   Contact organizations and business for support

IV.   Steering Committee will select board members to craft development strategies and seek to foster continuing support