U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine today announced $4,165,000 in federal funding for four economic development projects in Southwest Virginia. Among the projects is $665,000 of funding for Henry County’s Dick and Willie Passage Trail 6A Completion Project. The money will be used to complete the last mile of an existing gap in the D&W Trail.

“We are excited to support this investment in Southwest Virginia’s economic development. These funds will create jobs, increase recreational opportunities, improve public health, and make necessary advancements for Virginia’s underserved communities as we continue to support increasingly diverse local economies,” the Senators said.

The rest of the funding will go towards:

·         $1,500,000 to Appalachian Sustainable Development for the Food Sector Workforce Development in Central Appalachia Project to address new opportunities and challenges facing agricultural producers and food processors across Southwest Virginia.

·         $1,500,000 to the New River Valley Regional Commission for the New River Water Trail Expansion Project to construct or improve four public launches along the New River Water Trail in Fairlawn, VA.

·         $500,000 to St. Mary’s Health Wagon for the Expansion of Dental Services for Central Appalachia Project to facilitate education and training of new dental professionals in Clintwood, Virginia.