Eastern shore rails to trail (route 13 to town of cheriton)

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) awarded Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) a Formula Grant of $1.79 million under the Highway Planning and Construction program (CFDA 20.205) on July 9, 2025. The award funds the Eastern Shore Rails to Trail project in Northampton County, which converts approximately 1.35 miles of the former Eastern Shore Railroad right-of-way and 0.16 miles of Virginia Department of Transportation right-of-way into a shared-use path. The project deliverables include construction of the multimodal pathway with an associated parking area, as well as 0.5 miles of striped bicycle lanes on Sunnyside Road connecting the shared-use path to Business Route 13 in Cheriton.

This pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure project aligns with the Highway Planning and Construction program's emphasis on multimodal transportation network improvements and active transportation development. The shared-use path and bicycle lane components enhance connectivity for residents and visitors while promoting safe, non-motorized transportation alternatives in the Eastern Shore region.

Project description

Northampton county; from route 13; to sunnyside road cheriton; to convert approximately 1.35 miles of the former railbed of the eastern shore railroad right of way and 0.16 miles of the vdot right of way into a shared use path with a parking area for the safety and benefit of residents and visitors. Add 0.5 mile striped bicycle lanes on sunnyside road from the shared use path to business route 13 in cheriton.