Speciality license plate sales in North Carolina have raised more than $570,000 for the Blue Ridge Parkway/NPS file
North Carolina drivers who appreciate the Blue Ridge Parkway have raised $574,461 for the park through the purchase of specialty license plates.
The program, initiated by the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, involves a $30 specialty plate fee, with $20 of each sale helping to fund improvements along the parkway. The $574,461 raised in North Carolina represents the largest amount raised through the program in more than a decade.
“We are incredibly grateful to receive support for the parkway from so many North Carolina drivers,” said Carolyn Ward, CEO of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. “Purchasing the tag is an easy way to help the national park and also show your love for this amazing place to play and explore in your own backyard.”
The revenues help fund key improvements along the parkway, including repairs at trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas. Proceeds also support projects such as wildlife studies, historic preservation, and educational programs. Personalized plates are available for $60. The parkway tag can be purchased for cars and motorcycles.
To learn more, visit GetThePlate.org or request the plate at an N.C. tag office.
Unlike many large national parks, there is no admission fee to support park operations at the Blue Ridge Parkway. Past shortfalls in government funding have led to maintenance backlogs and facility closures along the parkway. Proceeds from the license plate provide critical funding to address needs and improvements within the park.
The foundation’s past projects in North Carolina include the addition of restrooms and expanded parking at Graveyard Fields, reconstruction of the viewing platform at the summit of Mount Pisgah, trail improvements at Craggy Flats Bald, construction of a shower house at Price Lake campground, extensive repairs to historic Flat Top Manor at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, and the rehabilitation and reopening of The Bluffs Restaurant at Doughton Park.
Virginia drivers can also support the parkway with a specialty tag now available online through the commonwealth’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
