South Asheville News

U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) today introduced a bill to expand the mileage of Corridor K in North Carolina by 15 miles under the Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS) to ensure eligibility for federal funding. The bill, which has a Senate companion led by Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), aims to support economic growth and development in the region.

The original Corridor K route, on which the ADHS mileage was based, posed environmental concerns as it would have disrupted the local environment and cut through the historic Trail of Tears. To address these issues, a new Corridor K route was established, running alongside the existing highway. However, this new route exceeds the ADHS-designated mileage under the Appalachian Regional Development Act of 1965 by nine miles, rendering the additional miles ineligible for ADHS-specific federal funding. This translates to $89 million in unfunded miles.

To rectify this funding disparity and ensure the entire Corridor K is eligible for federal support, Congressman Edwards introduced the bill. The legislation seeks to expand the ADHS mileage specifically for Corridor K, enabling it to receive federal funding and bolster growth and economic development in the area.

"The bill I introduced would make sure that our Appalachian Development Highway System corridor is eligible for full funding, just like every other corridor on the ADHS has been. The ADHS was created to spark economic development in rural Appalachia, and WNC deserves to reap the full benefits of that corridor designation to increase mobility and grow our westernmost counties' economies for years to come," Congressman Edwards emphasized.

Senator Tillis echoed Congressman Edwards' sentiments, highlighting the significance of the legislation in protecting local history and the environment while driving economic growth. "Increasing the mileage of Corridor K and ensuring it is properly funded will foster economic growth and is a major win for western North Carolina," stated Senator Tillis.

The bill introduced by Congressman Edwards and its Senate companion bill led by Senator Tillis aim to address the funding gap and support the economic development of western North Carolina. By expanding the eligibility of Corridor K for federal funding, the legislation seeks to unlock the full potential of the region and ensure its prosperity for years to come.

For more information, please visit:

- [Appalachian Development Highway System](https://highways.dot.gov/federal-lands/projects/adhs)

- [Corridor K](https://highways.dot.gov/federal-lands/projects/corr-k)