State DNR wins commission approval to preserve fishing access at Laurel Creek during bridge project

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) asked Fayette County to allow a maintained access route and a small informal parking area to Laurel Creek near the county park and animal shelter so anglers and residents can continue to reach the stream after a planned bridge replacement. Commissioners approved the request and asked DNR to coordinate with the county park director.

Anne Wakeford, who handles highway project evaluations for DNR, and district biologist Corey Barton described Laurel Creek as a high-quality warm-water stream used for state fish stocking. DNR said the bridge replacement will require heavy equipment and ground disturbance either upstream or downstream of the existing bridge; the agency—s request is that the final project plans preserve a small sloped path down to the creek and three or so informal parking spaces so older and mobility-impaired anglers can safely access the water. Wakeford said the DNR would reach out to the state Division of Highways (the project owner) to request the preservation of an access pathway when plans are finalized.

Commissioners and park staff asked the DNR to coordinate with the county park director (Brian) on location, signage and maintenance; the commissioners noted that any gravel placed could require ongoing maintenance and recommended exploring a low-maintenance dirt path or minimal gravel and signage. The commission voted to approve the DNR—s request for access, subject to coordination with the park director and county staff.