SB 801
Creating WV Public Waterway Access Act
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill establishes the West Virginia Public Waterway Access Act to improve public access to the state’s rivers and streams for recreational activities. It requires that new or replaced bridges crossing navigable waterways include access points designed for safe recreational use. The Department of Transportation, working with the Department of Natural Resources, will develop guidelines for designing and implementing these access points, considering factors like fencing and overall safety.
Key provisions
- Requires new or replaced bridges to include recreational access points.
- Defines ‘public bridge’ as bridges maintained with public funds crossing navigable rivers or streams.
- Specifies that access points should be designed for safe and reasonable recreational use.
- Directs the Department of Transportation and Department of Natural Resources to develop implementation guidelines.
- Identifies the purpose of the act as ensuring public access for recreational purposes.
- Highlights the benefits of river access, including recreational opportunities, economic impact, and environmental education.
Who is affected
- State residents
- Tourists
- Department of Transportation
- Department of Natural Resources
- River users
Notable changes
- Requires the inclusion of access points at bridge crossings for new or replaced bridges.
- Establishes a framework for the Department of Transportation and Department of Natural Resources to collaborate on access point design and implementation.
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