NVRC Roles & Responsibilities

The Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) is a regional council of 13 local governments in the Northern Virginia suburbs of Washington D.C., representing one of 21 planning districts that serve the Commonwealth of Virginia. According to Virginia’s Regional Cooperation Act, NVRC is a political subdivision (a government agency) within the Commonwealth. Commissioners are appointed by and from the governing bodies of NVRC’s member localities on a population-based representation formula. 

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NVRC has provided planning and management for the Northern Virginia section of the PHNST since the 1990s, including coordination efforts prior to Congressional designation. NVRC currently supports the PHNST through a cooperative agreement with the National Park Service and ongoing collaboration with PHNST management stakeholders, advocates, and other regional trail groups. NVRC staff lead trail data and mapping activities, special studies, and sponsor enhancement grant funding for trail construction activities in several jurisdictions. 

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NVRC's goals for the PHNST in Northern Virginia include: 

• Develop a connected trail network in NOVA, including a complete PHNST system.

• Enhance accessibility and comfort for all trail users.

• Ensure broad input from all stakeholders regarding future infrastructure and amenity investments for the corridor.

• Support and advance PHNST trail access and use for underserved communities.

• Improve pedestrian and bicycle safety along the PHNST, including interconnected trails to and from nearby communities.

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