Project Description
The Masontown Trailhead on the Deckers Creek Rail-Trail includes restrooms in a 1907 Elkins Coal and Coke Building that is located on the hillside above the trail. In 2011, the Romanesque-style cut stone building was listed as a WV Endangered Property by the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia. The building was of cut stone and had arched windows. Community partnerships and a long fund-raising campaign has made this idea into a reality, providing the first public restroom facility for the 19.5-mile rail-trail.
In addition to restrooms, there are two trail parking areas, drinking fountain, bike fix-it station, vending machines, pedestrian/bike bridge, weather shelter, and way-finding signs.
The Masontown Trailhead Facility project is partially funded by a grant from the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program administered by the West Virginia Department of Transportation, Division of Highways.
The City of Masontown, in Preston County, owns the building and property and has leased it for use as a restroom and mini-park to the Preston County Parks and Recreation Commission (PCPARC). PCPARC is now maintaining the facility.