The West Virginia Economic Development Authority has approved the sale of up to $80 million in excess lottery revenue bonds to pay for repairs, maintenance and improvements to West Virginia’s state parks and forests. Gov. Justice signed Senate Bill 438 earlier this year which authorized the bond sale. The WVEDA was responsible for reviewing the proposed projects and approving the sale. The excess lottery revenue bonds are expected to be made available by the end of September.
Every one of West Virginia’s 35 state parks, seven state forests and two rail trails will see improvements from this bond sale. Examples include: Americans with Disabilities Act improvements; replacement and repairs of major structural concerns; electrical service upgrades and replacement; better recreational, interpretive and safety equipment; cabin, lodge and conference facility upgrades; internet connectivity equipment; water supply and wastewater system repairs; and construction, improvements and repairs to new and existing recreational facilities. The Division of Natural Resources estimates that these projects will cost about $60 million to complete.
