However, the September 1996 flood had a far more devastating impact on the resources of Virginius Island than had the flood in January. With the force of this flood concentrated in the Shenandoah River, the island was literally ripped apart. The cautious optimism expressed in the spring turned to expressions of serious concerns about completing the nearly overwhelming task of bringing the island back and making it safe for visitors. Because of the extent of the damage caused by the floods to trails and structures and the loss of wayside exhibits, the interpretive program on the island has operated at a minimal level for several years. Although the island has remained open to visitors during the flood stabilization projects, no park ranger interpretation has taken place since.

The most approach to park interpretation was written in 1992, prior to the findings generated by the archeological investigations and the publication of the CLRs and the 1996 floods. Since then, managers have subsequently developed and enhanced the specific interpretation of Virginius Island. Most of these efforts are found in new exhibits in Lower Town, such as "Place in Time" and "Town Life," an expanded web site, and a strategy for interpretation currently under development. These venues deal with topics included in the park's primary interpretive themes - industry and transportation and waterpower - which have a direct connection to the history of Virginius Island.

Since the 1996 floods, funding constraints and a shift in park priorities have affected the schedule of treatment for other areas on Virginius Island. Several archeological sites remain untouched, lying below feet of river silt and old flood debris. The remainder of the recommended treatment plan has yet to be fully implemented. To accomplish this additional work, another series of archeological investigations will need to be funded and initiated. Using the methodology established in 1992-1994 with its focus on integrating documentation, analysis and evaluation with archeology, a landscape plan and an interpretative program can also be more fully developed. From "reading" the landscape on the ground and hearing the island's stories, the park visitor will gain a more complete understanding the complexities of its history and significance.

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