Record-breaking attendance showcases state’s commitment to outdoor tourism
FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (SWVO) – More than 120,000 people gathered at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve on Saturday for one of the largest Bridge Day events in West Virginia history — a milestone made possible despite the ongoing federal government shutdown.
The state’s largest single-day festival featured nearly 400 BASE jumpers from 39 states and four countries leaping 876 feet into the Gorge.
Below the bridge, about 300 adventurers took part in rappelling and high-lining activities, while over 200 vendors set up along the half-mile span.
The Bridge Day 5K, hosted by Active Southern West Virginia, attracted 500 runners from 26 states.
“Bridge Day is a great opportunity for West Virginia to showcase its amazing natural beauty and outdoor recreation with the world,” said Governor Patrick Morrisey.
“This incredible event wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and dedication of so many wonderful people.”
Morrisey credited the Bridge Day Commission, Department of Highways, Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, local EMS, the National Guard, the National Park Service, the New River Gorge Convention and Visitors Bureau, the West Virginia State Police, Visit Southern West Virginia, and numerous other organizations for their role in the event’s success.
“Thanks to Governor Morrisey, this year’s Bridge Day not only went forward, but became one of the highest-attended events in recent history,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby.
“I appreciate the Governor’s continued commitment to supporting tourism and keeping the local economy going in both the New River Gorge and Harpers Ferry regions.”
Earlier this month, Governor Morrisey announced that West Virginia was the first state to receive a signed donor agreement from the National Park Service, allowing the state to fully reopen its national parks during the federal shutdown.
The agreement has been renewed and will remain in place through October 31, should the shutdown continue.
“While Democrats and Senator Schumer continue to play political games that have led to a federal shutdown, West Virginians keep showing up, working hard, and moving our state forward,” Governor Morrisey said.
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