- (304) 254-8115
- (681) 207-7471
- info@nrgrda.org
The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) breaks the mold of traditional
economic development authorities by operating within a collaborative ecosystem of supporting
programs to initiate, facilitate, and support local communities and economic growth.
In 2025, we made significant strides in attracting investment by preparing for future opportunities. This involved marketing site-ready land, developing sites for upcoming projects, responding to information requests, securing substantial public investments, and aiding in job creation. Collaboration across Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh, and Summers counties led to significant infrastructure investments, highlighting the critical role of site readiness in supporting major projects.
Collaborating with business owners in Southern West Virginia is incredibly rewarding. Tailored support and access to incentives increase business growth and community impact. In 2025 area companies have significantly invested in our region and retained local jobs. NRGRDA has strengthened partnerships with local vendors and ensured technical assistance funds bolster local businesses and community infrastructure.
In 2025, the WV Hive Network, NRGRDA’s entrepreneurship program, played a crucial role in supporting small businesses. The program assisted numerous entrepreneurs in launching new ventures and expanding retail opportunities. By providing substantial technical assistance, WV Hive ensured that clients received the necessary support to succeed. Some clients gained increased visibility through specialized media coverage. The program’s trainings and networking events attracted many participants, highlighting the essential role of small businesses in economic development. WV Hive remains committed to nurturing these enterprises, recognizing them as the backbone of the community’s economic growth.
Our participation in the ACT Now Coalition and the CBRI partnership highlights our work across pillars and local projects. NRGRDA celebrated momentum-building wins in Accelerate Communities within the NRG region, with BUILD WV designations that create opportunities for workforce housing development, the completion of a multi-year Hinton Ice House remediation project that clears a pathway to downtown redevelopment, and NRG Working Group TA deployment to support shovel-ready infrastructure projects.
Our efforts to enhance the quality of life in the New River Gorge Region continue to transform how people interact with this beautiful area. This year, we celebrated two significant recreational developments: the Fayetteville Bike Skills Park and the Trailhead Expansion in Oak Hill, both of which contribute to our thriving outdoor economy. We completed two quality-of-place assessments to guide future improvements. Housing incentives were extended to Summers and Nicholas counties, further supporting community growth.
In October 2025, NRGRDA completed a multi-year project with the City of Hinton, the WV DEP and Greenbrier Environmental Group (GEG) to remediate the Hinton Ice House. The initial years of the project included assessments of what environmental contaminants existed, and planning for how they would be best addressed. The on-site work began in March with the City of Hinton’s public works department providing initial site grading, and Centec ensuring the site was remediated to the site plan specifications. WV DEP Technical Assistance funding, and remediation expertise provided by GEG were essential to ready the site and building for multi-use redevelopment integral to the City of Hinton’s long-term plans for the downtown rail district
A thriving economy depends on housing that meets the needs of workers, families, and businesses. In early 2025, NRGRDA finalized a regional Housing Needs Assessment conducted in partnership with Bowen National Research for the four-county NRG Region. With input from 67 community members, local leaders, and stakeholders, this study provided data to support Build WV Tax incentive access, creating momentum for investment in future housing development projects.
In April, Bowen National Research presented the regional Housing Needs Assessment as part of the regional Future Forward event co-sponsored by NRGRDA and Beckley Raleigh Chamber of Commerce. Highlighting key findings from the report, the presentation identified housing gaps, growth opportunities, and priorities for the region. With applications strengthened by Housing Needs Assessment data, both the City of Hinton and the City of Summersville were awarded BUILD WV designation in 2025. NRGRDA provided collaborative support towards these designations through the Summers County and Hinton Local Government Action Committee and the Summersville Accelerate team, and is proud to be two steps closer to being a BUILDWV region. West Virginia’s BUILD WV Act provides tax incentives for housing development in designated areas or ‘districts’. Through this incentive, communities can work with developers to create private-sector investment and much-needed housing for the region’s workforce.
Dear Stakeholders and Friends,
As we step out of 2025 and look ahead to what’s next, I find myself both proud of how far we’ve come and energized by where we’re going. The work of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority has always been rooted in people, partnerships, and a deep belief in this place—and that belief continues to guide every decision we make.
Over the past year, we strengthened the foundation for long-term growth across the region. From marketing and preparing sites for business attraction to supporting major infrastructure investments in our four-county footprint, we’ve focused on doing the behind-the-scenes work that makes opportunity possible. At the same time, local businesses doubled down on our communities— reinvesting, retaining jobs, and growing in ways that matter—supported by thoughtful incentives and strong partnerships.
We also expanded our role as advocates for the region. The launch of our Legislative Committee marked an important shift, ensuring our priorities have a clear voice at the state level. Through WV Hive, entrepreneurship remained a powerful driver of momentum, bringing new businesses, retail activity, and energy to our downtowns. Just as importantly, we continued to challenge outdated narratives—helping reshape how people see Southern West Virginia through new housing, facilities, and visible signs of progress.
As we move into 2026, I’m confident that the work we’ve done together is positioning the New River Gorge Region for a future that is resilient, inclusive, and opportunity-rich. None of this happens in isolation. It happens because of the trust, collaboration, and commitment of partners like you.
Thank you for believing in this region—and for continuing to build its future with us.
Warm regards,
Executive Director
The NRGRDA has significantly increased user interaction and followers through media placements and on its digital platforms, reflecting successful community engagement. By sharing compelling content on regional developments, we have broadened our audience and strengthened community ties through discussions and content sharing. Similarly, our WV Hive initiative has enhanced digital engagement by offering valuable resources and a supportive environment for entrepreneurs.
2025 Website Performance
2025 Website Performance
Our work would not be possible without the network of organizations, municipalities, and funders who are committed to the region’s continued growth and success. Thank you for investing your time and resources into growing a more vibrant economy.
(304) 254-8115 | (304) 460-HIVE (4483)
nrgrda.org | wvhive.com
contact@nrgrda.org | information@wvhive.com
