local communities.
“ Our approach has been to establish broadband as a target industry,” Workman says.“ In the same way we work to attract automotive investment in West Virginia, for example, we have worked to create a business environment that attracts and supports investment and expansion by the broadband industry.”
A more connected West Virginia supports all other economic development initiatives, driving the state forward and laying the foundation for sustainable growth.
“ Broadband alone is not the cure-all,” says Michael Graney, executive director of the West Virginia Department of Economic Development.“ However, it has to be an integral component of the state’ s long-range economic development strategy, and it’ s essential for competing in the local, national and global economies.”
Construction
The construction industry plays a vital role in infrastructure development, job creation and economic growth. Although challenges of workforce recruitment and retention are prevalent, West Virginia’ s construction companies continue making massive impacts throughout the state.
The state’ s most significant construction projects, such as the Nucor Steel West Virginia manufacturing facility and Corridor H, show the importance of this work.
“ Once completed, the $ 3.1 billion Nucor manufacturing facility in Apple Grove will be one of the largest vertical construction projects ever completed,” says Jason Pizatella, CEO of the Contractors Association of West Virginia.“ As of today, there are over 1,000 contractors working to build the new steel mill and related improvements in Mason County.”
The remarkable economic implications of this project are historic, with both short- and long-term benefits for West Virginians. Corridor H also continues to make its mark as the state’ s largest highway project.
“ The Kerens to Parsons segment is now fully under construction, and by
summer 2025, motorists will be able to drive nonstop from Weston to Parsons,” Pizatella says.“ Design work on the Parsons to Davis segment, and from Wardensville to the Virginia state line, is well underway. Unfortunately, the segments yet to be constructed, especially Parsons to Davis, are in some of the most environmentally sensitive terrain in all of West Virginia. Nonetheless, a final completion date for this critically important highway is in sight.”
According to Pizatella, the completion of these projects would not be possible without federal funding and support from the IIJA as well as public and private partnerships, which are also significant factors in accomplishing these groundbreaking projects.
Water
Fresh water is essential for thriving communities, yet many of West Virginia’ s water treatment plants and distribution networks were built decades ago. This raises concerns about the aging infrastructure. The wear and tear is evident in issues like leaking pipes and waterline breaks, with rural communities facing the greatest challenges.
To address these issues, many critical water infrastructure projects are working to provide necessary updates and new construction.
“ All the water and wastewater projects currently under construction are vital to our communities,” says Marie Prezioso, executive director of the West Virginia Water Development Authority( WDA).“ These projects will improve drinking water quality, provide service to new customers, protect public health and encourage economic growth.”
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