Gov. Justice dedicates fourth route of Mountain Rides program in Philippi
Trending
PHILIPPI -- Gov. Jim Justice visited Philippi on Friday afternoon to dedicate the newest route of the West Virginia Mountain Rides program -- Birdeye Bend.
Birdeye Bend is a scenic loop that leads travelers throughout the northern region of the state and marks the fourth route of the West Virginia Mountain Rides program.
The route is a collaborative partnership between the West Virginia Department of Transportation and the West Virginia Department of Tourism to designate and promote the Mountain State's most scenic country roads.
"The Mountain Rides program is such an important part of tourism in West Virginia," said Justice as he stood in the shadow of the historic Philippi Covered Bridge. "These routes give folks the opportunity to experience our beautiful country roads for themselves.
"None of it would be possible without the hard work of both the Department of Transportation and Department of Tourism."
The 173-mile journey begins and ends in Morgantown, with the towns of Elkins, Philippi, Parsons, Clarksburg, Fairmont and Kingwood included along the trek.
Joining Justice at Friday's ribbon cutting were Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby and West Virginia Department of Transportation Spokesperson Randy Damron.
"We're thrilled to be adding yet another route to our Mountain Rides program just in time for summer travels and adventures," Ruby said. "Take this road trip to witness Almost Heaven's natural beauty come alive with sunny skies, lush green landscapes and flowing falls.
"My continued thanks goes to Governor Justice for his partnership on this project as well as the Department of Transportation for their on-going work to ensure that our roads are in tip-top condition."
"I want to once again thank Governor Justice for his vision of the Roads To Prosperity program," Damron added. "Because of this initiative, we've had the opportunity to upgrade our road system to the point where we can now attract motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts to drive along our incredible, winding roads. Our DOH teams have been working hard on these roads for years to ensure they're as close to flawless as they can be so that motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts have a safe and enjoyable ride."
With the Blue & Gray Reunion taking place this week in Philippi, Justice had the opportunity to participate in a ceremonial firing of a replica Civil War cannon, commemorating Philippi's historical significance during the 1860s.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Justice invited those in attendance to greet and take photos with his English Bulldog, "Babydog."