Hinton officials hope for increased tourism

HINTON, W.Va. (AP) - Officials in Hinton are hoping for an increase in tourism if Amtrak increases its Cardinal line runs from three to seven.

Town manager Chris Meadows told The Register-Herald (https://bit.ly/2ib6QUl) that it would help officials promote tourism in the community of 2,500 along the New River, just north of the confluence of the Greenbrier River.

Officials say tourism could be the foundation of a new economy in the town, which has seen its population decrease by about half as the coal industry continues its decline.

Hinton is in the midst of change, opening unique stores, a theater and restaurants. It also has a lot of railroad history including a popular depot and weekend activities including Railroad Days.

Town leaders believe they can intertwine the historic elements with the new ones to attract more visitors.

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Information from: The Register-Herald, https://www.register-herald.com