Virginia Capital Trail Extension Will Boost Regional Connectivity
The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation (VCTF) and the Tidewater Trails Alliance (TTA) are excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership that will officially extend the Virginia Capital Trail directly into Colonial Williamsburg. This landmark collaboration is set to transform regional trail connectivity, creating a vital link for recreation, tourism, and economic vitality across the Historic Triangle and beyond.
This ambitious expansion will add approximately 7.5 miles of new trail, stretching from Jamestown High School to South England Street in Colonial Williamsburg. Branded as an official extension of the Virginia Capital Trail, this $25-$33 million project will serve as a crucial connector between the existing Capital Trail and the proposed TRAIL757, ultimately forming a continuous and unified trail network across the region. “This is a transformational moment for the Capital Trail and the region,” shared Cat Anthony, Executive Director of the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation. “Expanding the Trail to Colonial Williamsburg has long been a priority, and this partnership brings that vision within reach. It not only strengthens our ability to deliver a high-quality trail experience, but also moves us closer to creating a fully connected network linking Richmond to the heart of Hampton Roads.”
To ensure the successful execution of this vision, the VCTF will fund a dedicated, full-time project lead to manage advocacy, planning, and coordination with local and state stakeholders. The Tidewater Trails Alliance, a key grassroots leader in trail development and the driving force behind TRAIL757 since 2018, will continue its focus on advancing trail connections throughout the Peninsula and South Hampton Roads. Reed Nester, Chair of the Tidewater Trails Alliance, emphasized the collaborative spirit: “We are excited to collaborate with VCTF to bring this shared vision to life. This agreement amplifies our collective efforts and marks the next step toward a safe, accessible, and connected trail system that supports long-term economic vitality across the region.” The initiative has already garnered significant early support from regional planning bodies, including the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission and the Hampton Roads Transportation Planning Organization, as well as local government support from James City County and the City of Williamsburg. Funding for this expansive project will come from a diverse mix of grants from government agencies, private foundations, individual donors, and corporate partners.
For more information on the proposed extension, including a preliminary route, visit: virginiacapitaltrail.org/CapTrailExtension
