Construction underway for a new aerial tram at Pipestem Resort State Park

PIPESTEM, WV (WVNS) – Pipestem Resort State Park is getting a new upgrade in the form of a new aerial tramway.

The tramway is part of Governor Jim Justice’s administration’s ongoing investment into West Virginia State Park systems.

In just the past seven years, more than 24 million dollars have gone to improve Pipestem Resort State Park.

Kim Hawkins, Assistant Superintendent for Pipestem Resort State Park, said a new tramway is a needed upgrade.

Mercer County Animal Shelter at capacity, desperately need food

“We are getting a new aerial tramway. The other tramway has been in service for more than 50 years. So, it’s time that we’ll do a little bit of an upgrade,” Hawkins said.

The new tram system will accommodate several improvements compared to the previous system.

This includes larger cars to hold more people. It also includes an additional freight car, which can transport bicycles and kayaks to the Mountain Creek Lodge.

The improvements are primarily intended to help visitors navigate and explore the park.

“We should be able to just keep everything running for much longer through the season. Possible earlier opening dates than usual so opening prior to Memorial Day. And running later through the fall into the early winter,” Hawkins said.

Summers County 911 moves to social media

Officials say if construction goes according to plan, they hope to have the construction finished by Fall of 2024.

Given the popularity of the park in southern West Virginia, Hawkins is excited to bring in more visitors.

This in turn will help with tourism and help boost the local economies.

“It is pretty exciting to watch happen. It’s pretty amazing at the efficiency we watch happen. These people are experts in their field so it’s very exciting to watch,” Hawkins said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.