Regional Focus
COMPILED BY KENZIE DYE
Woodlands and Elkins Community Celebrate Grand Re-Opening of Tygart Hotel
Together with the nearby businesses , local community members and dignitaries from around the state and region , Woodlands Development and Lending recently cut the ribbon to officially open the Tygart Hotel .
Woodlands Development Group initiated this project as the result of a series of community meetings held in 2015 that identified the building as a priority and , more importantly , established the community ’ s desire to restore it to a functioning hotel . More than just a building redevelopment , this is part of a larger community revitalization effort taken on by many local partners , businesses and individuals .
The project overcame significant challenges at many stages and is the direct result of a community investing in itself . Considered too risky by outside developers , Woodlands , backed by market studies , key investments from local banks and a deep understanding of the local landscape and market opportunities , took on the project .
Public and private funding sources along with Woodlands ’ own mission and values drove the vision for a project that reflects local culture , supports the surrounding communities and contributes in many ways to the Elkins and Randolph County economic and community development . Initiated by community groups , funded by local investors and brought back to life by a wide variety of skilled local contractors , the hotel is designed to be a homegrown model of equitable tourism-based development that pays workers living wages and drives sustainable growth in the local business community .
“ The Tygart is intended to build community wealth ,” says Executive Director Dave Clark . “ In addition to providing good wages to all contractors and employees , we are creating a Tygart Community Investment Fund that will utilize proceeds from the hotel and solicit donations from guests to build workforce housing and contribute to the improvement of public amenities nearby .”
Fairmont State President Shares Vision for University
Fairmont State University formally installed Dr . Michael Davis as its 27th president on Thursday , April 4 , with more than 750 in attendance . West Virginia Delegate Joey Garcia , West Virginia Senator Michael Oliverio and Pierpont & Community Technical College President Dr . Milan Hayward provided greetings during the installation ceremony .
“ President Davis has done so much for Fairmont State in the nine months he has been here . His passion for Fairmont State and ability to build meaningful connections with the students , faculty , staff , alumni and community members have further solidified his position as Fairmont State ’ s leader ,” says Board of Governors Chair Rusty Hutson . “ We knew when we selected him he was the right person for the job , and we have not been disappointed . Time and time again Dr . Davis has gone above and beyond for the university .”
Davis began his presidency on July 1 , 2023 . He hit the ground running by immediately immersing himself in the
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