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High Bridge Trail manager outlines steps, obstacles to extending trail to Burkeville
Summary
Daniel Jordan, park manager for High Bridge Trail State Park, told the board the park has 32.2 miles of trail, described property/easement complications with Norfolk Southern, and said DCR remains committed to reaching Burkeville but can’t provide timelines until several property and environmental steps are completed.
Daniel Jordan, park manager for High Bridge Trail State Park, briefed the board on progress and obstacles to extending the trail to Burkeville, emphasizing property‑level constraints and permitting work.
Jordan said the trail currently comprises more than 32 miles and that Norfolk Southern retained small end parcels that complicate land conveyances. He explained earlier conditions tied to the Pamplin purchase (such as at‑grade crossing closures) and said some survey and environmental work has expired and must be refreshed before the state can move forward. "We're 32.2 miles long," Jordan told the board, summarizing the park footprint.
Jordan said the department has secured surveys and has had initial conversations with Norfolk Southern real‑property staff; real‑property personnel changes at Norfolk Southern slowed earlier progress. He stressed that the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) considers getting to Burkeville a high priority but that dates will depend on clearing title/easement issues and completing environmental reviews.
Board members and Jordan discussed potential local economic benefits from trail tourism and options for parking or access points in Burkeville. Jordan cited a Longwood economic study that estimated roughly $14 million in local economic impact tied to the trail and said staff will continue to provide updates as negotiations and property steps proceed.
