The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation is a non-profit organization with a mission to oversee completion, enhancement and promotion of the Virginia Capital Trail into a world-class amenity.
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From the Executive Director
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Picture this: You decide to spend a Saturday enjoying the Virginia Capital Trail. You park at the Jamestown Settlement and head towards the trailhead across the street. What's this? A place to rent bikes and kayaks? And a store with snacks (and worms) and cold drinks?
Welcome to Eco Discovery Park, a new operation within two pedal strokes of the eastern end of the Virginia Capital Trail. Steve Rose, owner of Williamsburg Event Rentals, recently leased the marina from James City County and in addition to renting boat slips, he now rents bikes, kayaks, canoes and SUPs (stand up paddle boards).
When I was there recently, he was helping a family from New York gear up for a ride on the trail. Astride four new and sturdy Trek touring bikes, plus a trailer with two toddlers inside waiting for things to get exciting, this family was ready for some adventure.
Steve says business has been steady all summer, both for watercraft and bikes. Recently, he rented kayaks to a convention group staying in Colonial Williamsburg who wanted to get up close to the history and wildlife of the James River. The park also sees a steady stream of locals who drop by and discover riding bikes around Jamestowne Island is a LOT of fun. "They've always wanted to do it, and seeing how easy it is to get there from here, decide it's finally time."
The marina is located at the end of the Colonial Parkway, across from the Jamestown Settlement, adjacent to the Virginia Capital Trail and at the entrance of Jamestowne Island. So whether someone is looking for an extended cycling excursion on the Virginia Capital Trail, a quick and easy sight seeing outing around the quiet and cycling friendly island, or maybe even a bike-paddle combo for the full land-sea adventure, this is the spot.
Steve plans to add a cafe so customers can fuel up before or after their activities. A little riding, a little paddling, and maybe a lot of eating. It sounds like the makings of a perfect day. Check it out and see what you think.
Cheers to you, Steve!
Beth Weisbrod
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Trail Progress!
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Richmond Riverfront
On July 23, the City of Richmond took a giant step towards completing the downtown portion of the trail when city council unanimously passed the purchase of the Lehigh Cement property. The purchase includes a lease back agreement which allows Lehigh to stay in their downtown riverfront facility until 2015, but initiate the rails-to-trails conversion process with CSX/Norfolk Southern immediately. This means construction of this piece of the trail can begin by May of 2013 and be complete by mid-2014. This is great news! Thank you to the City, CSX and to Lehigh Cement for making sure the Virginia Capital Trail project continues to move forward.
New Market Heights
Watch your inboxes for a date for the New Market Heights groundbreaking ceremony coming up in the next couple of months. That's 10 more miles under construction by the end of the year.
 Sherwood Forest
Further east, in Charles City County, the 13-mile Sherwood Forest section progresses towards an October 2013 completion date. Thank you V-DOT and Curtis Contracting.
This is very exciting!
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Young Volunteers Making an Impact
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Thank you Raleigh Matteo from Boy Scout Troup 728 for thinking of the Virginia Capital Trail for your eagle scout project. Raleigh is proposing to build a picnic table (or two?) and benches at the Herring Creek trailhead. On behalf of future users of these amenities, a sincere thank you and good luck as you begin this project.
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Video of the Month
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There are many cool things about this video, but the coolest is that this could be the Virginia Capital Trail.
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First time without training wheels
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Because the Cap2Cap is Just 9 Months Away
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Cap2Cap 2013
Save the Date: Saturday, May 11, 2013
We're adding a few new features that will enhance your Cap2Cap fun! (I know--how is that possible?) If you're interested in being a sponsor or having your group volunteer at this great event, email: Beth Weisbrod.
1/2 Ironman Triathlon
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Richmond Multisports has designated the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation as the charity for their September 23, Richmond Rox Triathlon at Rocketts Landing. It's a 1/2 Ironman so come out and watch endurance athletes push themselves to the limit. RMS needs lots of volunteer help to deliver a great event. Support the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation by supporting the Richmond Rox Triathlon! Email: info@virginiacapitaltrail.org
More great events:
Check out the Ride for Jim coming up on August 19. Ride 25 or 50 miles in Eastern Henrico and Charles City County to benefit cancer research.
Get caught up on the Richmond 2015 effort while enjoying their Bikes, BBQ and Bluegrass event at West Creek on September 8.
Don't miss the F.I.T. Richmond expansion grand opening on September 8, 12-4pm. Lots of great giveaways, including a free entry to Cap2Cap 2013!
Join the Richmond Area Bicycling Association at their annual Heart of Virginia Bike Festival on September 15. Choose 100, 61, 31 or 10 mile routes through beautiful Hanover County.
Try the new Martin's Tour of Richmond coming up on October 6. Race 102, 59 or 29 miles and enjoy a post ride party at Richmond International Raceway.
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