Rumor - Is all of that $660 million dollars going to the rebuilding of the Creeper Trail?

No. That was a common rumor when the funds were first allocated, but it soon became clear that these funds were for a multitude of National Forest Service projects spread over a large geographic area.
However, within that amount there are sufficient funds to rebuild the Creeper. Estimates run from 200-300 million.

Rumor - Will the trail be re-routed?

Yes. In sections of the trail the old railroad bed has simply disappeared. Rebuilding it would require construction within Laurel Creek.
It is unknown at this time (July 2025) where the re-routing will be.

Rumor - Will the Creeper Trail be finished in one year?

This would require a herculean effort. Most people we have spoken to who have actually walked the multiple miles of destruction give an estimate of 2-5 years.
To see for yourself, go to this website: The Destruction of the Virginia Creeper Trail But a persistent rumor is that the one-year requirement is in the new contracts to be awarded in July.
(Note from webmaster: when we first documented the damage in October 2024 I thought it would take ten years. I am skeptical about the one-year estimate.)

Read these comments from bidders on the reconstruction contracts.

Rumor - Have half the bike shops in Damascus closed?

On a drive through Damascus on Saturday July 12, 3 of 6 bike shops were open. Two are closed permanently.

Rumor - Tourists and gawkers are interfering with construction crews.

Information on this is anecdotal.
Straight Branch is the only major construction site at this time and it is difficult and dangerous to access during working hours.
The persons documenting the rebuilding only go on-site during weekends. If you have specific information on incidents please let us know.

Trestle 35 - Christy Parker photo