State and federal funding are being used to keep the momentum moving forward.
“ The West Virginia Economic Enhancement Grant Fund( EEGF) was established in April 2022 by the West Virginia Legislature through HB 4566, which authorized the creation of the EEGF to grant funds to governmental agencies or not-for-profits for the purpose of funding water, wastewater, stormwater, economic development
and tourism projects,” Prezioso says.
The West Virginia WDA has funded 161 projects across 49 counties and works in partnership with federal and state funding agencies to make the EEGF an effective program with a lasting impact.
Looking ahead, climate resilience is becoming a priority in water infrastructure planning.
“ All new water and sewer projects requesting public funding are designed with standards that take flood areas into consideration,” Prezioso says.“ Systems that were damaged by flooding are being rebuilt to mitigate any future issues.”
With continued investment and a focus on long-term sustainability, these infrastructure improvements will help make sure West Virginians have safe, reliable water access for years to come.
Manufacturing
As infrastructure improves in other sectors, like broadband and new construction, manufacturing begins to propel forward. It is a symbiotic relationship— investments in one industry help existing manufacturers and strengthen West Virginia’ s ability to attract new business.
Revolutionary manufacturing projects are in development in the Mountain State.
“ Our three largest manufacturing projects are Nucor near Point Pleasant, which will produce recycled steel; TIMET in Ravenswood, which will manufacture titanium; and Form
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