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Washington County supervisors weigh limited role in Creeper Trail recovery after Damascus flooding
Summary
Supervisors discussed commissioning a limited, data‑driven assessment and possible emergency procurement to explore temporary trail options after floods destroyed multiple trestles near Damascus; officials emphasized coordination with the U.S. Forest Service and state recovery staff and said no formal action was taken tonight.
Supervisor Berry told the Washington County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 29 that severe flooding in the Damascus area (zip code 24236) washed out multiple trestles on the Creeper Trail and left the local tourism economy at risk. He outlined an option for the county to fund a limited, emergency assessment and planning effort to explore temporary trail alignments that could reopen segments of the route for riders and visitors.
Why it matters: The Creeper Trail is a key driver of tourism in the region. Berry cited county tax data and local business concerns — including a 2024 tax contribution of nearly $1.4 million from the 24236 ZIP code — to argue for an urgent but narrowly scoped intervention to restore economic activity while federal and state repairs proceed.
What was proposed: Berry said the county already has a recreation‑study contract with…
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