Support Us Button Widget

Hanover breaks ground on northern section of Fall Line Trail

Representatives from across the region assembled to celebrate the multi-jurisdictional project

A paved trail through the trees on a sunny day

The Ashland Trolley Line Trail’s .85 miles will be the northernmost section of the Fall Line Trail.

Photo by RICtoday

Community members, local leaders, and several organizations were in attendance on Tuesday, April 23 to officially break ground on Hanover’s section of the Fall Line Trail. It was a warm, sunny morning, and a number of those present had biked or walked to the event.

The groundbreaking occurred on the Hanover side of the Ashland Trolley Line Trail. The .85-mile paved path runs south from Carter Park and is to be the northmost section of the Fall Line Trail. Ashland Mayor Steve Trivett joked in his remarks that the other six jurisdictions had better hurry up — “we’ve finished our trail!”

A row of shovels leaned against a table of hard hats

The groundbreaking was held on Tuesday, April 24.

Photo by RICtoday

When completed, the FLT will run 43 miles from Ashland to Petersburg, winding through Hanover, Henrico, Richmond, Chesterfield, and Colonial Heights in the process.

Trivett commented that, when he thinks of the trail’s completion, he sees “thousands of potential good days” for residents of the whole region. Tyrone Nelson, chair of the Henrico Board of Supervisors, echoed this sentiment, adding that the Fall Line Trail represents a “brighter, more connected future for generations to come.”

Hanover’s section of the trail will run 4.8 miles total and is expected to be finished by the end of 2025. It will run the path of the old Ashland-Richmond Trolley Line up to the Chickahominy River, where it will cross into Henrico just west of Virginia Center Commons.

RIC fall line trail groundbreaking hanover

Representatives from several jurisdictions gathered for the groundbreaking.

Photo by RICtoday

Sports Backers Executive Director John Lugbill called the project a “destination connecting destinations,” saying that it would pay dividends to the region in health benefits, tourism income, and overall quality of life. Lugbill said the Fall Line Trail will “change the way people live on a daily basis,” pointing out that there are 95 schools within two miles of the trail.

Henrico began work on the trail in October 2023; Chesterfield aims to start its first section this summer. Richmond’s first phase of construction is already underway.

More from RICtoday
Commonwealth Fusion Systems is investing billions to build the power plant at the James River Industrial Center.
Whether you’re interested in local news, music, sports, or wellness, there’s a River City podcast for you.
Let us know what we should cover in the River City in 2025.
These gifts are way better than a Jelly of the Month Club membership.
Here are our recommendations for memorable presents in the form of experiences.
The River City has seen its fair share of winter storms throughout its history.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Richmond?
2024’s Google Year in Search is out — check out what Richmonders were searching most this year (it might surprise you).
The upgrades will include new recliner seats, large format auditoriums, and a family-friendly arcade space.
Read our list and check it twice to see how to get the most out of holiday illuminations in the River City.