The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE, Va. (VR) – The Town of Clifton Forge is proud to announce that it has been approved to receive $2,912,000 in federal funding for the development of a state-of-the-art All-Abilities Park—an investment that represents the largest award in this part of Virginia for this funding cycle. This transformative project will create a destination where residents and visitors of all ages and abilities can gather, play, and connect in an environment designed for true accessibility.
The vision for the All-Abilities Park began in 2022 when Clifton Forge resident John Moser brought an important concern to Town Council: there were no local parks or outdoor recreation spaces fully accessible to individuals regardless of disability or mobility challenges. Soon after, the Town partnered with the Parks and Trails Committee and secured a $10,000 grant from the Virginia Outdoors Foundation to support preliminary design work. The Town contracted with Thrasher Engineering, which developed a concept for an All-Abilities Playground. The design outlined a welcoming, intergenerational space capable of serving children, families, seniors, and individuals with a wide range of physical and cognitive needs.
Determined to bring this vision to life, Town staff worked closely with Thrasher Group representatives to pursue federal funding through a Congressionally Directed Spending request submitted to the offices of Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner. While the project advanced through the Senate process, it was not funded in the FY24–25 federal budget. Undeterred, the Town reapplied—and this year received approval for more than the original request.
“This is a monumental moment for Clifton Forge and the entire Alleghany Highlands,” said Town Manager Chuck Unroe. “The All-
Abilities Park will not only enhance quality of life for our residents, but it will also position our community as a regional destination for inclusive recreation. Every person deserves the opportunity to enjoy safe, engaging outdoor spaces, and this project ensures that accessibility is at the heart of our future.”
The Town will soon begin the administrative process while moving forward with detailed planning and preliminary development. Given the scale and importance of the project, the full process is expected to take two years or more.
