May 21, 2026 Governor Morrisey Announces $12M AMLER Award Distribution for Upshur County Multi-Sport Complex ...

BUCKHANNON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced a $12 million Regional Hub Tourism and Recreational Complex. Combined with previously secured grants, this cements a $16.5 million total investment in Upshur County.

"This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Upshur County and the surrounding region," said Governor Morrisey. "Projects like this attract visitors who support our hotels, restaurants, and small businesses while helping strengthen local economies. They encourage West Virginians to get outside, stay active, and enjoy the community around them."

The new AMLER award, combined with previously secured local, state, and private resources, brings total funding committed for Phase I of the project to approximately $16.5 million, fully funding the project's first phase of development. Planned facilities include baseball, soccer, and lacrosse fields, mountain bike flow tracks, an ice-skating rink, and a Snowflex tubing hill for year-round recreation.

The project became possible following the donation of 70 acres by the J.F. Allen Company, along with Joyce Allen and her son, John Allen. The Upshur County Commission developed a master plan for the property in 2022 and plans to open the project for construction bids before the end of the year.

Since October, West Virginia has announced a historic $12.8 billion in private sector investments expected to create more than 12,000 new jobs across the state. Governor Morrisey said projects like the John C. Allen Regional Hub Tourism and Recreational Complex help strengthen quality of life while positioning communities to grow alongside the state's broader economic momentum.

"West Virginia is building momentum across every corner of the state," said Governor Morrisey. "When families and businesses look at where to invest, quality-of-life projects like this matter. This complex will help strengthen tourism, support local communities, and create new opportunities for the region."

Future phases of the project are expected to include additional athletic fields, a large indoor sports complex, and on-site lodging designed to support weekend tournaments and regional events.