ELKINS, W.Va (WDTV) – West Virginia is set to receive nearly $2 million to help grow the economy in 12 coal-impacted communities across the state.
The funds have been awarded by the Appalachian Regional Commission as part of the group’s Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative.
This project directs federal resources to Appalachian communities that have been affected by job losses in coal mining, coal power plant operations and coal-related supply chain industries. The funds will help diversify the economy in these towns.
The West Virginia communities awarded are in the Monongahela National Forest region, including Cowen, Davis, Durbin, Elkins, Franklin, Marlinton, Parsons, Petersburg, Richwood, Seneca Rocks, Thomas, and White Sulphur Springs.
“ARC‘s POWER initiative supports coal-impacted communities’ preparation for the next phase of Appalachia’s economy, while ensuring that residents have a say in the course of their own futures,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “The investments announced in this round of POWER will help train workers, advance new industries, and build upon the progress already being made toward a brighter future full of economic opportunity for our region.”
More information about the Mon Forest Towns Partnership’s ARC award and mission to collaboratively build a sustainable recreation economy in the Monongahela National Forest region can be found at monforesttowns.com
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