Ten projects selected for New River Gorge region to boost economic development
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) — The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) announced the ten awardees of its NRG Working Group Technical Assistance Fund, amounting to more than $490,000.
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According to a press release, Jina Belcher, Executive Director of NRGRDA, explained that funding through a Congressionally Directed Spending request affords the New River Gorge Regional Working Group Technical Assistance Fund to give support to projects within the areas they serve.
During the competitive selection process, non-profit organizations and governmental units within the area sent in proposals for a variety of improvements to communities that would bring about an economic impact that would justify the funds. Selected projects had to:
Focus on a need for an infrastructure improvement necessary for an increase in economic growth
Bolster business retention through working with local businesses for improvement project implementation
Find potential chances for connectivity in the region through the implementation of the project
Those selected for funding suit the NRG Working Group priorities, which are geared towards utilities, public health and quality of place, transportation, development, and environmental justice, the release noted.
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Selected project proposals include:
Raleigh County Airport Rail Access Initiative
Meadow River Recreational Corridor Master Plan
New River Train: Planning for Fayette County's Public Indoor Training and Recreation Facility
Forest Hill Water Access and Infrastructure Enhancement Project
Raleigh County Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Camp Summers Multipurpose Building and Site Development Project
Summersville Lake Trail System Feasibility Study
Site Suitability Plan for Longacre Section of Smithers WV
Hawks Next Rail-Trail Network Mountain Bike Study
Beckley Raleigh County Convention Center Economic Impact Study
Belcher stated that projects receiving assistance must be put in at least one of the four counties within the New River Gorge Region: Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh, and Summers. Though this round of funding was limited, NRGRDA aims to secure more funding to support projects in the future.
For more information regarding the NRG Working group, visit their website.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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