BREAKS, VA – MAY 1, 2025 — An up to $27,358 grant from the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority (VCEDA) to the Breaks Interstate Park will be used in part to replaster the park’s waterpark and toward an environmental assessment report needed to access Appalachian Regional Commission funding for improvements to the Ratliff Hole River Access Area.
The funds came from the Civil Penalties Fund which are set aside specifically for infrastructure and improvements at the Breaks Interstate Park.
“VCEDA is pleased to once again be able to support another Breaks Interstate Park project which provides enjoyment for not only out-of-state visitors to the park, but also to those who are from the local community and who take advantage of the many amenities available at the park year-round,” said VCEDA Executive Director/General Counsel Jonathan Belcher. “The continued improvements made at the park continue to provide employment opportunities and create jobs in the community.”
The waterpark was constructed in 2012 and has not been re-plastered since construction. According to the park’s application for funding, the marcite plaster has an expected lifespan of 10-12 years and is showing discoloration and chipping. The funds from VCEDA will be used to apply a new coat of marcite plaster.
Additionally, the park has received a $200,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to renovate the restrooms, roads and parking lots serving the Ratliff Hole River Access Area. According to the park’s application, this day-use area is extremely popular with swimmers, anglers and kayakers. The VCEDA funds will be used to pay for a Phase 1 environmental assessment report needed to release the ARC funds.
“The waterpark continues to be one of our most beloved attractions and its popularity has only grown with the addition of our new pool in 2024 — another exciting project made possible with the support of VCEDA,” said Breaks Interstate Park Superintendent Austin Bradley. “This upcoming plastering project will ensure that the original pool, opened in 2012, maintains a cohesive and updated appearance in line with the new addition. We are deeply grateful to VCEDA for its ongoing partnership and commitment to helping us keep the park welcoming, well-maintained and enjoyable for both our local community and visitors from afar.”
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.