Amid sequestration and budget cuts, Parkway enthusiasts are glad to see a facelift on the calendar for Graveyard Fields at Milepost 418.
Here are the quick details . . .
- Set to begin Nov 1 and conclude Memorial Day (late May) 2014
- Expansion of the Parking Lot from 18 to 43 spaces
- 3 new bathrooms added
- Additional trail boardwalks added
- New interpretive maps and signs
- Funding: National Scenic Byways Grant – $261,336. Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation – $65,334 cash plus $30,000 contributed design work.
National Park Service Parkway Landscape Architect David Anderson was kind enough to answer some questions for us regarding the upcoming project . . .
What is the current parking capacity? Currently the parking lot is striped to accommodate 18 cars. That capacity is exceeded during our visitation season with visitors parking along the curb, in the island and along both sides of the parkway motor road.
What will be the new parking capacity? The new design will create a double loaded parking area which will have 43 striped spaces. Parking will not be allowed within the island or along the parkway shoulder to protect our visitors as well as the resources.
Have there been accidents which have prompted this change? Currently parking along the shoulders of the parkway motor road is cause for concern. Not only does parking on the shoulder cause resource damage (soil compaction, erosion, damage to the pavement edge) it also causes sight distance issues and endangers pedestrians who must walk in the road due to narrow shoulders. I do not have access to our law enforcement accident reports but it is important to make these changes to reduce the likelihood of a serious accident or fatality.
Where will the new bathrooms be located? The new bathrooms (three unisex vault units) will be located at the top of the stairs which access the lower falls.
How many new boardwalks will be added to the trail (or how many feet)? I am unsure of the exact improvements to the boardwalk as this work is being completed by the US Forest Service. Some repair will also be made to the existing boardwalk. As you may know most of the trail system, falls, and camping sites are managed by the US Forest Service as our boundary only extends approximately 100 feet from the edge of the overlook.
Will camping be allowed at Graveyard Fields during the renovations (If they park elsewhere)? I no not know of any plans to suspend hiking or camping within the National Forest during our reconstruction of the overlook and building of the restroom. Visitors will need to park on US Forest Service property or in another overlook and walk in.
What are the start and completion dates? Construction is planned to start November 1 and weather permitting be open Memorial Day in 2014.
How many new interpretive signs & maps will be added to the trail? Placement and content of the maps and signs are currently in development.
What is the purpose of the new interpretive signs & maps? The interpretive themes are currently being developed.