Senator Shelley Moore Capito made two stops in Fayette County, first at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve’s newly-remodeled Canyon Rim Visitor’s Center in Lansing.
Then, at Oak Hill’s New River Health — where Capito and Manchin secured $5 million of congressionally directed spending to help improve the site.
“This really, I think shapes the history of the Gorge, the history of the river,” Capito said.
“For people that aren’t familiar with this area of our country, really it shows the strength of coal heritage, and also the preservation of a lot of species. So it makes me really proud. I think it’s really nicely done; it’s interactive.”
Upgrading the Canyon Rim Visitor’s Center the senator says enhances the experience. You can hike the trails, climb the rocks or ride the river rapids — but to know the region’s history is something else.
“One of the only rivers that flows north,” said Capito. “It’s the second oldest river in the world. It also showcases West Virginia and its people, which is the best part.”
The senator was instrumental in creating the national park and preserve so she says it has great meaning. Her favorite spot in the area is the New River Gorge Bridge overlook.
“Because my dad was actually governor when the bridge was built; it was one of his creations,” Capito said. It connects our two communities, our Raleigh and Fayette County communities so well.”
With West Virginia now a destination the senator says we need to work with local businesses, recreation providers, restaurants, and hotels to ensure that people want to stay for more than several hours.
“And I think that’s something we’re working on. Certainly, I’ve been trying to be helpful here to make sure we have the infrastructure to do that — whether it’s water, sewer, or roads,” said Capito. “But they’ve done a wonderful job here at the park. I think making it an a+ experience for all those folks that come through.”
At New River Health, the senator saw that grant money put to good use, allowing the New River Health Association to expand its services in one comprehensive medical facility.