Regarding the Feasibility Study for a Connector Road at Beech Fork Lake
Summary
House Resolution 14 is a nonbinding resolution that asks the West Virginia Division of Highways to approve up to $10,000 for Wayne County’s share of a feasibility study for a proposed connector road between the Beech Fork State Park campground and the marina. The resolution also urges the Wayne County Commission and the KYOVA Interstate Planning Commission to work together to secure the remaining funding, which KYOVA has reportedly pledged at 90% of the study cost, or up to $90,000.
The resolution frames the project as an economic development and tourism initiative. It states that Beech Fork State Park is an important regional attraction and that improved access between the campground and marina could increase visitor traffic, lengthen stays, support local businesses, create jobs, and improve emergency response access. The House also expresses support for using the feasibility study’s findings to advance construction of the connector road if the project proves viable.
Impact
Because HR14 is a resolution rather than a bill, it does not directly amend the West Virginia Code or create enforceable legal obligations. Its practical effect is to formally encourage the Division of Highways to provide a small funding match, promote intergovernmental coordination, and signal legislative support for a future transportation and tourism project in Wayne County. The resolution could help advance planning for a connector road by supporting the feasibility study and potentially influencing future funding or construction decisions affecting the Division of Highways, Wayne County, KYOVA, and local businesses tied to Beech Fork Lake tourism.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment reflected in the resolution is strongly supportive and optimistic. The bill text emphasizes economic growth, tourism, job creation, and improved access, and there is no recorded committee opposition, vote split, or transcript evidence of controversy in the provided materials. The measure appears to have been presented as a local development initiative with broad public benefits for Wayne County and the surrounding region.
Contention
The main point of potential contention is not the concept of the connector road itself, but the use of state highway funds for a local project and whether the feasibility study should receive a $10,000 match from the Division of Highways. Any debate would likely center on funding priorities, the merits of the project, and whether the anticipated tourism and economic benefits justify the public investment. The resolution indicates support from Wayne County and KYOVA, suggesting that local and regional planning interests are aligned, while no explicit opposition is shown in the available record.
Supplementing and amending appropriations to the Higher Education Policy Commission, Higher Education Policy Commission – Administration – Control Account
Expiring funds to the unappropriated surplus balance in the State Fund, General Revenue, from the Department Revenue, State Budget Office, PEIA Rainy Day Fund