Davis, WV – The design concept for Tucker Boulder Park, a collaborative community enhancement project, was unveiled May 3 at the Give Local America Day Open House hosted by Tucker Community Foundation.
The public climbing venue will be located at the Davis Ball Field in close proximity to the Corridor H (Rt. 48) exit. The design concept was provided by Chapman Technical Group.
“It has been great to work with the Tucker Community Foundation and the Town of Davis to develop this unique recreational opportunity for residents and visitors. Tucker County is one of the most beautiful parts of West Virginia. To be part of delivering another asset to the area is really exciting. I am looking forward to watching this project take shape and come to life.” Rob Dinsmore, Landscape Architect, Chapman Technical Group
The idea for the project was inspired by rocks unearthed during Corridor H construction. Several community meetings were held to assess the viability of the project and to determine the location and scope. Strong stakeholder support allowed the project to launch in 2014 when Dominion Foundation kicked off the fundraising campaign with a $25,000 contribution.
The Foundation, in partnership with the Town of Davis, Dominion Foundation, and Western Pocahontas Properties, is leading the effort to raise support for the project by seeking grant and donor support for the project. The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) program is providing major funding for the project.
A 2014 LWCF grant was approved for the purchase and installation of the extra-large boulder. A 2015 LWCF grant is pending for the purchase and installation of the children’s boulder. All LWCF grants require a 50/50 match; fundraising efforts are underway to secure the $45,000 match required for the third and final boulder. The LWCF grant program is facilitated by the WV Development Office.
A $120,000 West Virginia DOT Recreational Trail grant was secured for the construction of a trailhead and new section of non-motorized trail connecting the Boulder Park to the proposed Allegheny Highlands Trail paralleling Corridor H heading east. E. L. Robinson Engineering was awarded the design contract. Construction is expected this summer.
Donors who contribute $1,000 or more will be recognized on a brass plaque at the park; those who contribute $10,000 or more will be identified on large landscaping boulders surrounding the park; partners who contribute $25,000 or more are identified on the entrance sign. All requests for anonymity are honored.
To date, donors have contributed more than $100,000 in cash and in-kind support that has leveraged grant funds exceeding $200,000. All donations to the project are tax deductible.
Tucker Boulder Park is a bold venture for a small mountain town located in a rural county that attracts visitors from around the world. For more information or to donate, visit www.tcrocks.org or https://www.facebook.com/tuckerboulderpark.
