such as Marietta College , Washington State Community College , West Virginia University Parkersburg and the Washington County Career Center developing a local workforce .
“ West Virginia and the Mid-Ohio Valley are very pro-business ,” says Comstock . “ It is affordable , we have some prime locations in our region that are perfect for new business or expanding current businesses , and we have a quality workforce and an array of training opportunities to fit not only the needs of the customer but the business as well .”
Comstock also says that the collaboration between area organizations on both sides of the river is phenomenal , which makes promoting the region easier .
“ When there is a topic that affects both Ohio and West Virginia populations , the organizations come together to determine the best course of action to meet the needs of the customers on both sides ,” she says .
Another draw of the Mid-Ohio Valley region — like most of West Virginia — is access to the rest of the country .
“ We live within 500 miles of many of the population centers in the U . S .,” says
Waller . “ We have river , rail and highway accessibility . The Belpre area includes the western area of Washington County , Ohio , but the reach of our chamber of commerce is beyond those boundaries into all areas of Washington County and Parkersburg . Our immediate area serves a population of 6,400 people , but the surrounding urban and rural area extends for over 100 square miles and to more than 100,000 people .”
The success of the area has also historically been influenced by its proximity to the Ohio River .
“ Our chemical industry grew exponentially in the 1950s through the 1990s , which is largely because of our supreme access to river , rail and highway transportation ,” says Waller . “ We are also adjacent to natural gas deposits that are in varying stages of development .”
This relationship with the gas industry as well as other top industries such as chemical and plastics , small retail and medical are a draw for many looking for work but also those looking to retire somewhere with access to all the services they may need . Ultimately , the Mid-Ohio
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