One of Shinnston’s most popular attractions saw welcome news last week. Laura Pysz-Laulis, Harrison County administrator, shared that “we are happy to announce that the Shinnston portion of the Rail Trail is officially open and ready for use!”
In the spring of 2025, heavy rains and flooding created a slip along the Rail Trail near Shinnston. Kleinfelder expedited the job, getting crews on the ground in weeks instead of months. That said, the damaged trail remained a danger because some navigated around the safety barriers to use the unsafe stretch of trail.
The West Virginia Office of Abandoned Mines and Reclamation also participated in the work.
One of the project managers reported that some tourists did not know the trail was even closed. Shinnston Mayor Patrick Kovalck reported in a May County Commission meeting that the City had ordered new signs to help better define the closure.
Shinnston has seen the section of trail near the City as a center for both local and tourist enjoyment. Tourism-based businesses rely on its users who need food, lodging, bicycles, and other locally available commodities.
Also, Lincoln High School students in recent years have used a tourism grant to develop a support organization for the trail. Students lead efforts to organize local holiday events around the trail. They also spearhead beautification and other improvements to the trail and surrounding grounds.
Excitement about the reopening caused the City of Shinnston to ask enthusiasts to remain patient between the period when paving was completed and when the trail was declared safe for use. After that, it took only two days for the County to make the long-awaited announcement.
Pysz-Laulis added “one important reminder,” however. She stated in the release to “please stay off the newly seeded vegetation along the trail. In order to properly reseed and restore these areas, the vegetation needs time to grow and the roots need time to take hold. Staying off those areas will help ensure the new growth has the best chance to become established.”
The release thanked all for “”patience and cooperation,” then concluded with “now it’s time to get back out there and walk, run, bike, and enjoy the trail!”
