Tourism and economic development in West Virginia play a vital role in driving growth and enhancing the quality of life throughout the Mountain State. Known for its breathtaking mountains, outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, and welcoming small towns, West Virginia attracts visitors year-round, boosting local businesses, restaurants, and lodging. This thriving tourism industry fuels economic development by creating jobs, supporting small businesses, and encouraging investment in infrastructure and community revitalization. By promoting its natural beauty, rich heritage, and expanding industries, West Virginia continues to strengthen its economy and offer new opportunities for both residents and visitors.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council announced $22 million in funding for sewer and water projects around the state. Kanawha Public Service District The council approved a $1 million grant and a $12.62 million loan to the Kanawha Public Service District to extend sewer service to 220 homes from Marmet … Read more
WHITESVILLE, W.Va. — A new recreational trail in an isolated valley in southern West Virginia has piqued the curiosity of hikers, bikers, and residents wondering about its impact. The 15-mile Clear Fork Rail Trail, the first phase of which is set to open in spring 2024, follows an old railroad through one of the most … Read more
CANAAN VALLEY, W.Va. — Step aside, New England! West Virginia is fast becoming a chief destination for autumn leaf-change vacations in the eastern U.S. Thanks to accessibility, affordability, the number of trees, and the remarkable length of the season, the Mountain State is enjoying a significant shift to national prominence as a chief leaf-change destination, … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — There’s nothing like a motorcycle road trip through West Virginia in winter. The snow-covered scenery that frames the open road is a feast for the eyes, but it’s essential you don’t grow distracted to the point that you neglect the dangers of such a trip. The scenery can be epic, if frigid, … Read more
The Preservation Alliance of West Virginia is accepting applications for its new Saving Historic Places Grant, designed to save certified historic buildings in rural West Virginia communities from “demolition by neglect.” According to Danielle Parker, executive director for the statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation in the Mountain State, funding will be provided for … Read more
JULIAN, W.Va. — The Fallen Heroes Mine Emergency Response Drill is underway in the southern coalfields of West Virginia, bringing together mining experts, safety professionals, and mine rescue teams. The growing event, now in its third year, is dedicated to enhancing safety preparedness and response strategies while commemorating the individuals who have committed their lives … Read more
DAVIS, W.Va. — Officials are celebrating a record $7 billion annual tourism impact in West Virginia in 2022 — a 17 percent increase in visitor spending compared to pre-pandemic levels, far higher than the national overall 1 percent post-pandemic tourism recovery. Gov. Jim Justice joined more than 300 tourism-industry members to announce “West Virginia’s best … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia has recommended more than $18 million in Appalachian Regional Commission grant funding for 11 projects — chiefly those that improve water and sewerage infrastructure. W.Va. Gov. Jim Justice stressed that the programming to be awarded was vital to the state’s growing economy. “These upgrades are going to be phenomenal, and … Read more
West Virginia’s cumulative revenue collections for Fiscal Year 2023 would come in at $1.8 billion over estimates, shattering the all-time record for the most significant single-year revenue surplus in state history for the second year in a row. Gov. Jim Justice announced the breakthrough on June 30, the last day of the fiscal year, underscoring … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today announced that West Virginia would receive $1,210,800,969.85 in funding through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program to deploy high-speed internet networks. A member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation and Appropriations committees and ranking member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, … Read more
