Edwards introduces legislation to expand Corridor K mileage, grow WNC economy

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 accommodate changes in the original route so that the entire new route is eligible for ADHS-specific federal funding. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) is leading the Senate companion bill.

The original Corridor K route, on which the ADHS mileage was based, would have uprooted the local environment and run directly through the historic Trail of Tears. The new Corridor K route runs along the pre-existing highway and exceeds the ADHS-designated mileage under the Appaclahian Regional Development Act of 1965 by nine miles. The extra miles are ineligible for ADHS-specific federal funding, which equates to $89 million in unfunded miles.

By expanding the mileage of the ADHS specifically for Corridor K, this legislation will make sure the entire Corridor K is eligible for federal funding and support growth and economic development in the area.

Congressman Edwards said, “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.”

"This legislation ensures that the entire Corridor K receives full federal funding while protecting the local history and the environment,” said Senator Tillis. "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."