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Focal Point: “America’s Favorite Journey” |
The Blue Ridge Parkway is the most popular destination in our national park system, hosting about 17 million visitors a year. As the Parkway celebrates its 75th birthday, a new WRAL documentary examines the Parkway’s importance to our state and some of the serious challenges it is facing. The documentary called “America’s Favorite Journey,” airs Tuesday, June 29 at 7pm and is hosted by WRAL News anchor Bill Leslie.
Nearly half of the Parkway’s 469-mile route runs through North Carolina, including its highest elevations. Some of the Parkway’s most iconic features are in our state, including its highest peak and the Linn Cove Viaduct at Grandfather Mountain. Visitors to the Parkway generate more than two billion dollars a year for mountain communities.
Its biological diversity, rich history and its parks and trails make the Parkway a valuable educational and recreational resource. But the Parkway faces many challenges. Limited federal funding has led to a staff shortage and a maintenance backlog. Repairs and routine maintenance have been delayed, limiting access to certain sections of the Parkway and diminishing the Parkway experience. Some say there are not enough rangers to ensure public safety and prevent vandalism. Along some sections of the Parkway, encroaching development threatens scenic views.
“America’s Favorite Journey” is a half-hour documentary that explores the Parkway’s past and the challenges it faces in the future. The program also looks at the many different ways people experience and enjoy the Parkway.
Focal Point |
Thanks to WRAL-TV’s Debbie Tullos for this capcom story.
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