development, economic development and finance.
“I have the opportunity to work with the city council and
other organizations that are interested in making Bridgeport
and the surrounding area stronger and even more attractive
than it is right now,” says Wetmore. “It is an exciting spot to
be in. Our challenges are to continue the success we’ve had in
the past and to be able to provide the excellent services people
have come to expect.”
Community development projects underway in Bridgeport
include the construction of the Bridgeport Indoor Sports &
Recreation Complex, a $50 million, 156,000-square-foot
sports facility, and the Benedum Logistics and Harrison County
Industrial parks at CKB. Moving forward, Wetmore hopes to
continue planning the city’s park and infrastructure systems
to keep up with the community’s growth.
“My goal is to continue to have all of our entities work to-
gether for the betterment of the entire area,” he says.
Annette Wright, city clerk and interim city manager of the
City of Clarksburg, loves her city because of its small-town
feel and big-town appeal.
“Clarksburg is an all-around destination with a state-of-
the-art aquatic center/splash zone, outdoor amphitheater,
neighborhood parks, rail trails, an exquisite restored theater
that beautifully lights up the area, delicious restaurants and
many shopping venues,” she says.
Wright started her career as city clerk in 1996 and has served
as interim city manager since July. She has seen the city weather
many ups and downs, but recently the oil and gas industry has
provided a boost to the area, increasing the need for affordable
housing and a vibrant downtown for families to enjoy.
“Clarksburg, like many other cities, is reinventing its down-
town to attract visitors, shoppers, businesses and workers,”
she says.
One noteworthy community development project in Clarks-
burg is the recently renovated Robinson Grand Performing
Arts Center, which serves as an anchor for attracting visitors
as well as other businesses. With its great location just off of
Route 50 and I-79, innovative business and occupation tax
incentive program and business loan funds available through
the Harrison County Economic Alliance Corporation, Clarks-
burg is a city on the brink.
“Clarksburg truly is a great place to work, eat, play, raise
a family and enjoy life,” says Wright.
As Harrison County continues to grow, the state as a whole
should take note of its formula for building a robust economy
by diversifying industry, elevating education and developing
communities. This strategic plan has helped the county over-
come immense challenges, and its future is nothing but bright.
“Harrison County’s economic future is rooted in a com-
prehensive, focused approach to building a positive business
climate with attention to the quality of life that is valued by
citizens who desire to live and work here,” says Wilson. “By
advocating for collaborative efforts among diverse organiza-
tions, Harrison County will grow in future years based on
understanding and leveraging its assets and engaging individ-
uals in bringing out the best in all aspects of the county.”
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