Investments in modern infrastructure lay the foundations for economic development and growth in all communities. Building streets, bridges, utilities (i.e. water, sewer, electrical, gas, etc.) and making other improvements create jobs. When completed, these projects help a community increase its wealth and its citizens’ standard of living.
Berkeley County, West Virginia, recognized this long ago and has always placed a high level of importance on maintaining and expanding its infrastructure. Doing so has resulted in the following three outcomes.
Infrastructure creates (and keeps) jobs.
Our experience with bringing businesses such as Quad Graphics, Macy’s, and now Procter & Gamble, underscores the case for infrastructure to be improved and modernized as new needs and technologies emerge.
Infrastructure attracts and retains a skilled workforce.
Highly educated, skilled workers today expect more from their jobs than just a paycheck and a secure future. That’s why cities compete fiercely to make their communities an attractive place to live. Quality of life plays a big role in one’s decision to seek a job in a particular city, relocate an existing business, or start a new one. Quality of life factors including downtown walkability, alternate transportation methods, walking bicycle paths, a vibrant cultural scene, nightlife, access to higher education, and more.
We knew that to attract, retain, and nurture a talented workforce, we have to invest in revitalizing the core of Martinsburg.
Downtown Redevelopment
Downtown redevelopment, known as the Mainstreet Martinsburg area, is continuing to flourish with our town square and its permeable pavers along East King Street to reduce stormwater run-off, widened sidewalks next to buildings for outdoor dining, created performance space for public events, a cascading fountain, and decorative street lamps. Forward-thinking streetscape design makes it conducive for visitors to enjoy new public gathering spaces, family-friendly events held year-round, summer concert series, and a farmer market is held weekly during the growing season.
Infrastructure fosters sustainability. The infrastructure we build today is the legacy we leave for future generations. It will need to provide for current water, energy, and transportation demands, while at the same time, remain flexible enough to adapt to future technological, environmental, and regulatory changes. We believe by making the necessary investments in our infrastructure now, we meet the current needs of our community while increasing opportunities for future growth and prosperity. It’s a strategy that is sure to yield dividends for years to come.
Other Resources
WV Road Projects Interactive Map
This map currently displays all road projects for the year 2019 and beyond; including projects that are currently underway, ones that are about to be started, and ones that have already been completed.
Drive Forward WV-Roads to Prosperity County Projects
The Roads to Prosperity program comprises a series of funding measures that, over the next several years, are expected to generate approximately $2.8 billion for highway and bridge construction and maintenance all across West Virginia.
Secondary Roads Maintenance Initiative
This list below represents secondary road maintenance needs that officials with the Department of Transportation have identified as high priority projects and intend to complete as soon as possible. These lists will be regularly updated as roadwork continues. When a project is completed, it will be highlighted in red. All of the following lists are up-to-date as of July 25, 2019.
Broadband Internet Speed Test
The West Virginia Broadband Enhancement Council was formed in 2016 to provide for and oversee the development of plans, processes, and procedures for extending broadband access into underserved and unserved areas of West Virginia.
