Safety

The U.S. Forest Service has closed the 18-mile section of the Virginia Creeper Trail located on National Forest land between Damascus and the North Carolina state line. The closure is in place due to damaged infrastructure, unstable slopes and active construction activities along the corridor.

Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. is working with the Forest Service to reconstruct the trail and restore safe public access. This work involves trestle replacements, slope stabilization, heavy equipment operations and other activities that pose safety risks to the public if entered without authorization.

For your safety and the safety of those working in the corridor, please do not enter the closed section of the trail.

Nobody Gets Hurt: Our Commitment to Safety

At Kiewit, safety isn’t just a priority — it’s a way of life. Our Nobody Gets Hurt philosophy drives every decision we make in the field. It’s how we plan, execute and deliver every project — including the Virginia Creeper Trail Reconstruction.

With unstable terrain, damaged structures and active construction zones across multiple miles, this corridor is not safe for public use during the rebuild. Unauthorized access can create serious hazards — not just for individuals, but also for our crews working to safely restore the trail.

We ask for the public’s cooperation in helping us maintain a safe, controlled environment throughout the duration of construction.

What to Expect During Construction

• Controlled access points and temporary fencing
• Trailhead signage and closure notices
• Ongoing equipment activity and staging
• Adjustments to safety controls as conditions change

How You Can Support Safe Operations

• Respect all posted signage and closure orders
• Do not enter or approach active work zones
• Share closure information with other trail users and visitors

Your cooperation helps us ensure a safe, efficient restoration process — for the public and for those working on the project.