Bristol, VA, October 15, 2025
News Summary
Bristol, VA will hold a public open house on October 15 to discuss a proposed connector route to the Mendota Trail. This initiative aims to connect the Mendota Trail trailhead to downtown, enhancing accessibility and recreational opportunities. The existing 12.5-mile trail, popular for hiking and biking, continues to be a regional priority for stakeholders. Funding includes grants totaling $140,000, supporting a study for the new three-mile trail. The event will occur at the Bristol Public Library, where residents can contribute their thoughts.
Bristol, VA
A public open house will be held on October 15 to discuss a proposed connector route to the Mendota Trail. This event is part of a city study to explore potential routes linking the Mendota Trail trailhead to downtown Bristol. The open house is scheduled from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Kegley meeting room of the Bristol Public Library.
The existing Mendota Trail is a 12.5-mile hiking and biking recreational corridor that extends between Bristol and Mendota in Washington County, Virginia. The Mendota Trail is open daily from dawn to dusk, providing a natural space for outdoor enthusiasts.
The development of the greenway connector is considered a regional priority for stakeholders, public officials, and tourism supporters. The study focuses on creating a feasible new three-mile trail between the trailhead and Cumberland Square Park. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity and accessibility for both residents and visitors.
The city has received a $70,000 grant from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission and an additional $70,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission for the approximately $160,000 study. The remainder of the funding will come from private sources to evaluate a multimodal connection between the trail and downtown Bristol.
The Bristol trailhead, located at 3460 Island Rd., includes a small parking area and seasonal restroom facilities. Currently, access to the Bristol trailhead is limited due to several factors, including a lack of dedicated space for pedestrians and cyclists, high motor vehicle speeds, and visibility issues on adjacent roads.
To inform the study, the city has conducted stakeholder interviews, met with landowners, and developed some conceptual alternatives for the trail’s route. Previous attempts to establish a recreational trail along the former railroad bed were unsuccessful. In 2016, the city transferred the land to Mountain Heritage, Inc., which restored two trestles and opened six miles of the trail. The trail was later transferred to the Mendota Trail Conservancy, which oversaw the restoration of the remaining 15 trestles, thus completing the opening of the entire trail.
The Mendota Trail is now managed by Washington County, Virginia, and is a cherished asset for the community, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation.
Additional information can be found on the city’s webpage dedicated to the Mendota Trail Downtown Connector project.
FAQ Section
When is the public open house for the proposed connector route to the Mendota Trail?
The public open house will be held on October 15 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
What is the existing Mendota Trail?
The existing Mendota Trail is a 12.5-mile hiking and biking recreational corridor that extends between Bristol and Mendota in Washington County, Virginia.
What is the budget for the study of the trail connector?
The city has received a $70,000 grant from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission and $70,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission for the approximately $160,000 study.
What are the limitations of access to the Bristol trailhead?
Access to the Bristol trailhead is currently limited due to a lack of dedicated space for pedestrians and cyclists, high motor vehicle speeds, and visibility issues on adjacent roads.
Key Features of the Mendota Trail Connector
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Public Open House Date | October 15, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. |
| Existing Trail Length | 12.5 miles |
| Study Budget | Approximately $160,000 |
| Trail Connector Length | 3 miles |
| Trailhead Location | 3460 Island Rd. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bristol, Virginia Proposes New Walking and Biking Trail
Bristol City Council Advances Mendota Trail Connection
Additional Resources
- WJHL
- Wikipedia: Bristol, Virginia
- Herald Courier
- Google Search: Mendota Trail Bristol
- Richmond Magazine
- Google Scholar: Mendota Trail Bristol
- Only In Your State
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mendota Trail Bristol
- WCYB
- Google News: Mendota Trail Bristol
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
