BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) applauds Governor Patrick Morrisey’s announcement of a historic $40 million investment in industrial site readiness across West Virginia, calling the initiative a significant opportunity to strengthen economic development and attract new investment to Southern West Virginia.
The investment includes $25 million in loans for industrial shell buildings and $15 million in grants for site preparation and infrastructure improvements, providing communities with additional resources to compete for business expansion and job creation opportunities.
“Governor Morrisey’s announcement represents exactly the kind of forward-thinking investment West Virginia needs to remain competitive,” said Kelly Vickers, Executive Director of NRGRDA. “In Southern West Virginia, we have tremendous potential, but turning that potential into economic opportunity requires infrastructure, preparation, and resources. This initiative helps bridge that gap.”
Serving Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh, and Summers counties, NRGRDA works to advance economic growth through business development, strategic partnerships, and initiatives that strengthen the region’s economic future.
“One of our priorities at NRGRDA is ensuring that our region is not simply waiting for economic opportunities, but actively preparing for them,” Vickers continued. “Having development-ready sites puts us in a stronger position to attract employers, encourage private investment, and create sustainable jobs for our communities.”
NRGRDA looks forward to exploring opportunities under the new programs and working alongside state and local partners to identify projects that can benefit from these resources.
“Economic development doesn’t happen by chance. It happens through preparation, collaboration, and a willingness to invest in the future,” Vickers added. “We appreciate Governor Morrisey’s commitment to giving communities like ours the tools to compete, grow, and succeed.”
The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority serves Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh, and Summers counties in Southern West Virginia. NRGRDA is committed to strengthening the regional economy by supporting business growth, encouraging investment, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating opportunities for long-term economic prosperity.
More on its current projects and 2025 regional impact report can be found athttps://nrgrda.org/
