BREAKS, VA – APRIL 21, 2026 –A $54,736.35 grant from the VCEDA Civil Penalties Fund was recently used to develop infrastructure and improvements at the Breaks Interstate Park, including replastering and repairs of the waterpark.
The waterpark was originally constructed in 2012 and the marcite plaster used, which has a life expectancy of 10-12 years, was showing signs of chipping and discoloration. The waterpark surfaces had not been replastered since construction.
The funds approved were used in conjunction with $27,358 in funding previously approved and reallocated by VCEDA for the replastering project.
“The waterpark is a very popular attraction for locals and tourists alike who are visiting the Breaks Interstate Park,” said VCEDA Executive Director/General Counsel Jonathan Belcher. “The VCEDA board is pleased to assist the park in its various improvement endeavors. The park is a big quality of life asset in our region.”
“The park commission is grateful to VCEDA for helping us continue to expand and upgrade our waterpark,” said Breaks Interstate Park Superintendent Austin Bradley. “We used this funding to resurface the splash park and lazy river section of the park, which has been in operation for 13 years now. This will help ensure the appearance of the older section of this facility matches the appearance of the new pool, which was constructed in 2022 and was also made possible by VCEDA funding.”
The waterpark and pool will open on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend in May.
About Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority and Southwest Virginia’s e-Region: The Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority, created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1988 to enhance and diversify the region’s economy and help create jobs, markets Southwest Virginia’s e-Region and its focus on electronic information technology, energy, education, emerging technologies, and entrepreneurship. VCEDA is a unique economic development organization that manages funds for economic development projects from a percentage of the coal and natural gas severance taxes paid by coal and natural gas companies that operate in the region. Located in southwestern Virginia, the region includes Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, and Wise counties and the City of Norton. www.vceda.us or www.e-Region.org.
(PHOTO CAPTION: VCEDA Executive Director/General Counsel Jonathan Belcher, right, presents a ceremonial check for $54,736.35 to Breaks Interstate Park Superintendent Austin Bradley, center. Also pictured is Josh McGlothlin, Breaks Park hospitality manager, left.)