The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Forest Service finalized a significant Federal Infrastructure Contract, officially awarding Kiewit Infrastructure the project to rehabilitate a crucial 17-mile segment of the historic Virginia Creeper Trail within the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.
This decisive action underscores the Forest Service’s commitment to the sustainable stewardship of its public lands. The trail, a popular converted railway, requires immediate structural modernization to ensure visitor safety and accessibility. Kiewit is now actively engaging in the necessary engineering and construction phases to execute this mission.
Scope and Scale of the Federal Infrastructure Contract
Kiewit Infrastructure, a construction leader recognized for complex projects, secured the contract and mobilized resources swiftly. The comprehensive scope of work includes replacing or extensively rehabilitating several aging wooden bridges and historic trestles.
These structures, critical to the trail’s integrity, date back to the route’s original railroad function. Crews are also upgrading and stabilizing the trail bed itself to prevent future erosion and bring the popular recreational path into compliance with current accessibility standards.
The Forest Service prioritized this extensive overhaul to preserve the trail’s appeal and historical character while improving its physical robustness. This successful acquisition of a Federal Infrastructure Contract demonstrates Kiewit’s expertise in specialized government construction projects.
Boosting Local Economies through Procurement
Beyond the environmental and recreational benefits, the execution of this contract channels substantial federal investment into the region. The project creates numerous construction and support jobs, simultaneously utilizing regional suppliers and services.
Securing the long-term viability of the Virginia Creeper Trail also protects a key driver of tourism, which reliably generates revenue for local communities in southwestern Virginia. This vital Federal Infrastructure Contract provides a clear case study showing how government procurement actively strengthens economic stability and maintains national recreational resources.
