WEIRTON, W.Va. — The Northern Panhandle of West Virginia is poised for an economic resurgence, with areas like Weirton and Newell anticipating hundreds of new jobs and significant investments in industry and the energy sector. This potential boom follows Gov. Patrick Morrisey’s recently announced initiative aimed at revitalizing the region.

Local leaders are expressing optimism about the future.

“These investments locally are what is helping to rebuild our area.” Hancock County Commissioner Eron Chek said. “I know there are companies that have been waiting for this, and they are ready to act.”

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One of the largest investments in Hancock County comes from Newell-based Ergon, which has pledged $400 million and 25 jobs. Meanwhile, Weirton is set to benefit from Bidell Gas Compression’s $7 million expansion, expected to create 80 new jobs.

“Anytime you add 80 new jobs to the city, or to the tri-state area, really, it’s going to be a huge impact to the city—as far as stores and the gas stations and what have you. So, it’ll have a big impact on the city,” Weirton Mayor Dean Harris said.

Support from the state level has been bolstered by discussions between Gov. Morrisey’s office and local representatives, including Delegate Mark Zatezalo.

“We have good access to all three states—Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio,” Zatezalo said. “And, we have, of course, resource under our feet, so it’s a good place to locate. We also have good energy infrastructure here.

“When you add value to what we have, you add wealth to the state. Using energy as a base, I look for things to continue to improve in the future, and I’ll be glad to help work toward that goal.”

The initiative is expected to usher in a renaissance not just for Hancock County, but for the entire Mountain State, leveraging natural gas, coal, electricity, and substantial investments.