New Report Released on Shenandoah Valley Rail-with-Trail Project — Public Meetings Set

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has released the Phase 1 report from its Shenandoah Valley Rail-with-Trail Assessment, offering the public a first look at what it would take to build a trail alongside the unused railroad corridor between Broadway and Front Royal.

The report is part of a three-phase study designed to explore whether both a restored rail line and a bike and pedestrian trail could safely and affordably share the corridor. Community members will now have the chance to share their thoughts at three upcoming public meetings, including one in Front Royal on Thursday, April 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Warren County Government Center (220 N. Commerce Ave, Suite 100).

Key Findings Show Higher Costs and Complex Challenges

The Phase 1 report offers early insights into the technical and financial challenges of trying to keep a rail line while also building a trail beside it. Nearly half of the route—48%—would require costly, specialized construction to make room for both rail and trail. This includes retaining walls, blasting rock, building overhangs, and other complex engineering work.

Another 37% of the corridor—about 18.5 miles—is considered “steep slope” terrain, which would need extra earthwork and strong support walls. The report also highlights the expensive and complicated task of adding cantilevered steel structures to bridges that would still carry freight trains.

“This report confirms what we’ve long suspected,” said Don Hindman, Board Chair of Friends of the Shenandoah Rail Trail. “Trying to restore the rail line while also building a trail would drastically raise costs, with no clear evidence that freight rail service would ever return to this corridor.”

Support Remains Strong for a Trail-Only Project

The Shenandoah Rail Trail was first studied as a rail-to-trail project—a plan that would convert the old railroad corridor into a dedicated path for biking, walking, and other outdoor activities. Many local leaders and residents believe this approach would bring the most benefit for public health, local businesses, tourism, and community connection.

The current Rail-with-Trail Assessment was developed to compare options, and while the full cost estimates won’t come until Phase 3 later this year, Phase 1 clearly shows that keeping a rail line will come with much higher costs and more risks.

VDOT also noted in the report that while some rail operators see possible opportunities, most town and county officials support the trail project, and many local business leaders have shown little interest in bringing freight rail service back.

Community Meetings and Online Input

The public is invited to share feedback at one of the upcoming meetings. The Front Royal meeting will be held:

Thursday, April 10, 5–7 p.m.
Warren County Government Center
220 N. Commerce Ave, Suite 100, Front Royal, VA

Can’t make it in person? VDOT plans to launch an online survey soon for public input. Details will be shared once it becomes available.

As the study continues, advocates for the trail encourage the public to stay involved and speak up in support of a project that could transform the region.

“Let’s keep the momentum going,” said Hindman. “Let’s build the Shenandoah Rail Trail.”

To read the full Phase 1 report, visit VDOT’s website or contact Friends of the Shenandoah Rail Trail for more information.