Support the West Virginia Bridge Access Bill

The West Virginia Public Waterway Access Act would require that significant bridge construction projects include river access if it is safe and practical to do so. This common-sense bill would efficiently protect and improve river access across the state over time, and would benefit countless communities by providing simple close-to home paddling and fishing opportunities. In a state where boating is big business, this proposed law makes a ton of sense.

Paddlers know the story too well: a bridge is replaced or repaired and traditional river access is cut off by new guard rails or thoughtless design. Without the goal of providing river access baked into the design-build process, river access is often overlooked and blocked. The WV Public Waterway Access Act would put an end to such needless losses of public access.

When bridges are built or repaired there are often construction areas, pull-offs, and access roads built that make ideal river access areas if they are left in place and accessible. Often, providing for river access requires only minor modifications to a project, and can be as simple placing guardrails in a manner that allows roadside parking. We are excited to work with the state on projects like this, and are thrilled that Senator Woodrum has introduced this legislation.

Want to help?

If you live in WV, reach out to your delegate (in the Senate and House) and share your support for Senate Bill 801, the West Virginia Waterway Access Act.