WASHINGTON – Today U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced that the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has approved $392,588 in grant funding to the Town of Narrows, Va.

 The ARC funding will go towards a series of projects designed to improve the waterfront business district, including the development of a new multi-use 1,425 linear trail along Wolf Creek that will generate increased revenues to ten local businesses. Additionally, the funding will also help the town acquire a vacant warehouse to establish an outfitter post to spur recreational tourism.

“Southwest Virginia is known for its wide variety of outdoor recreation activities, which are an important economic driver for the region,” said the Senators. “We are pleased to announce these federal dollars that will increase local tourism and continue to spur economic opportunity.”

ARC project grants are awarded to local and state government entities and non-profits. The ARC funds are then matched by local funding sources. In addition to the ARC funds, local sources will provide $392,775, bringing the total project funding to $785,363. 

Since its inception in 1965, ARC has generated more than 300,000 jobs and $10 billion for the 25 million Americans living in Appalachia. ARC has provided funding and support for job-creating community projects across the 13 Appalachian states, producing an average of $204 million in annual earnings for a region often challenged by economic underdevelopment. President Trump’s 2018 budget proposed eliminating the program entirely. Sens. Warner and Kaine have continued to advocate for a fully funded ARC so that it can continue to increase employment and economic opportunities for those living in Appalachia.    

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