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State approves two Clinch River land purchases to create new state park access points
Summary
The committee approved acquisition of a 21‑acre tract near Horton Ford and a separate Kyle's Ford tract with cabins to support a new Clinch River state park and visitor operations, aiming to create multiple river access points connecting into Virginia.
The State Building Executive Subcommittee approved two Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) transactions to support development of a new state park along the Clinch River.
Bill Avant, senior real property manager for the Bureau of Conservation, said the first transaction covers 21 acres "on the North End of the Clinch River near Horton Ford" and that the parcel will be acquired using a third party for time sensitivity, then transferred to the state. The committee took the two Clinch River items together and approved both by voice vote.
Avant described the second item at Kyle's Ford as a tract that includes several structures and "a couple of cabins that are in place, kind of a turnkey operation to create the new state park that'll be the location of the visitor center and park operations." He and staff said the park concept envisions multiple access points along the river to connect with Virginia and to support paddlers traveling the Clinch.
Commissioners noted the acquisition will both protect river access and expand recreational opportunities; Hancock County and the community of Sneedville were mentioned as supportive partners. Operational and capital project budgets for the acquisitions have been approved, and DEC said it will work with local partners on transfer and operations.
The committee approved both transactions on voice votes with no recorded roll call.
