The Lower Appomattox River weaves through three counties (Dinwiddie, Chesterfield, and Prince George) and three cities (Petersburg, Colonial Heights, and Hopewell) for over 23 miles, connecting Lake Chesdin to the James River. The river corridor is visually spectacular and offers amazing opportunities for environmental, historic and cultural interpretation and education. Over a 10-year period LPDA has been involved in several projects focused on this historic river and water shed. Our work has included park and recreation planning, greenways and trail planning and construction, interpretive sites and redevelopment studies for property within its influence. The projects are community based and have been spurred by individuals, groups and municipalities that realize the importance of the Appomattox River in their future.

The Friends of the Lower Appomattox (FOLAR) is a leader in river and community revitalization.  They are working on several fronts to improve environmental quality, access, education, health and wellness. Partnered with surrounding communities and community foundations this group has made significant accomplishments in fund raising, trail construction, signage.  (FOLAR) and LPDA worked together to complete a Master Plan for a greenway system along the River, connecting to other trails in the area and creating a greenway system in southside Virginia. The Master Plan includes trail design standards for the corridor, descriptions of different trail types, suggestions for park improvements along the corridor, and implementation steps for the project. In addition to the planning and design, LPDA conducted several public input workshops, stakeholder meetings, and public presentations.