The new pedestrian bridge over Route 311 in Roanoke County, Virginia, was officially opened on March 27, 2025. This structure, located at the McAfee Knob trailhead of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, aims to enhance pedestrian safety by providing a way to cross Route 311 without encountering vehicular traffic.
Constructed by Stonewall Bridge Inc., a company based in Vinton, under a $1.5 million contract, the bridge is maintained by the National Park Service. It is made of concrete and steel, spanning 90 feet in length and eight feet in width, with a height of 17.5 feet above the roadway. These specifications allow standard commercial vehicles to pass beneath without restriction. The bridge was designed to blend in with the natural landscape of the trail, featuring gray architectural treatments to resemble rock. A sidewalk ramp offers handicapped access from the parking area.
The construction, facilitated by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) in collaboration with the National Park Service, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club, Roanoke County, and the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission, was intended as a long-term safety measure.
Ken King, VDOT’s district engineer for the Salem District, emphasized the cooperative effort behind the project: “This bridge resulted from a great partnership between local, state, and federal agencies and volunteer groups, and it will provide visitors to this popular location with a safety benefit for generations to come.”
Appalachian Trail Conservancy President and CEO Sandi Marra highlighted the community’s collaborative efforts: “The level of support and coordination for the construction of McAfee Knob trailhead bridge between municipalities, businesses, nonprofits, volunteers, and the public agencies has been outstanding, and it speaks volumes about how cherished this stretch of the Appalachian Trail is.”
David Radford, Roanoke County Board of Supervisors Chairman, noted the economic and experiential benefits of the bridge, saying, “This new pedestrian bridge is an investment in both the visitor experience and our local economy, ensuring the trail continues to be a major draw for tourism.”
Catawba District Supervisor Martha Hooker pointed out the safety improvements, particularly for hikers: “This new bridge is a major enhancement atop Catawba Mountain. It significantly improves safety for the 50,000 hikers who explore our area each year.”
Ed Clark, Superintendent of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, expressed gratitude for the collaboration among the various partners: “Visitors to Roanoke County and hikers on the Appalachian Trail will find a safer and more enjoyable experience in Catawba and McAfee Knob thanks to this initiative.”
