October 23, 2026 Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $6.4 Million in ARC Investments to Create Jobs, Strengthen Communities ...

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced more than $6.4 million in Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) POWER funding for four projects supporting jobs, healthcare, housing, and tourism across West Virginia. With local matching funds, the projects represent nearly $14.6 million in total investment.

Download and watch the Governor's announcement here.

"We've made tremendous progress bringing new businesses and jobs to West Virginia, but that's only part of the equation," said Governor Morrisey. "We also have to invest in our people, strengthen our communities, and build the workforce and infrastructure needed to support that growth. I'm proud to serve as a member of ARC, and these investments are a great example of what we can accomplish when we work together."

The four projects receiving funding include:

Clear Fork Rails-to-Trails Project Phase II - $2,000,000

Raleigh County Recreation Authority will develop nearly four miles of recreational trails, improve an existing railroad trestle, and build a pedestrian bridge. The project is expected to create nine jobs and generate $271,000 in additional tourism revenue.

Accelerating Coal Technologies (ACT) Coalition - $1,990,000

The Center for Applied Research & Technology will help coal and energy-related businesses develop new technologies and expand operations across nine southern West Virginia counties. The project is expected to create 48 jobs, retain 48 existing positions, and generate $2 million in private investment.

Future-Proofing Rural Healthcare Industry Clusters - $1,250,000

Williamson Health & Wellness Center will expand laboratory and radiology services, upgrade equipment, and strengthen healthcare workforce training across six southern West Virginia counties. The project is expected to serve more than 14,400 patients, create 26 jobs, and retain 14 existing positions.

Building Resilient Communities (BRiC) - $1,186,651

Marshall University Research Corporation will improve housing opportunities in Cabell and Wayne counties through property assessments, redevelopment planning, and workforce training. The project will support 100 workers and serve eight businesses.

"Raleigh County Parks and Recreation is grateful for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) funding awarded for the Clear Fork Rail Trail. This investment provides the final funding needed to complete Phase 2 of the project. Through the combined support of ARC funding, the AMLER Grant, EPA Brownfields Grant, West Virginia Department of Transportation Grant, and Raleigh County Commission funding, Phase 2 is now fully funded. Completion of this phase will extend the existing 5-mile trail by an additional 4 miles, creating new opportunities for outdoor recreation, tourism, and economic development throughout the region."
- Molly Williams, Executive Director, Raleigh County Parks and Recreation Authority

"On behalf of the Center for Applied Research & Technology, Inc. (CART), we would like to thank Governor Patrick Morrisey and the Appalachian Regional Commission for the opportunity to work with our project partners (Region 1 WV PDC and the Bluefield Economic Development Authority) to accelerate the development of coal technologies utilizing repurposed energy assets, such as WV coal, carbonaceous coal waste (CCW), and coal combustion residuals (CCR). Through ARC POWER Funding the Coalition will provide technical assistance to southern WV businesses that will help develop, deploy, and commercialize a spectrum of high-value carbon-derived material systems and components, such as, building materials, battery anodes, and printing materials."
- Bruce Mutter, CEO, Center for Applied Research & Technology, Inc.

"We are honored and deeply grateful to receive this POWER Grant award. This investment reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the health and future of our WV communities. We sincerely appreciate the confidence placed in our organization and the opportunity to continue making a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of those we are privileged to serve."
- Dr. Donovan "Dino" Beckett, CEO, Williamson Health & Wellness Center

"Marshall University is an economic driver for West Virginia, bringing partners together to develop solutions to the challenges facing our communities. We sincerely appreciate the Appalachian Regional Commission and Gov. Patrick Morrisey for investing in Marshall's research, service and impact. Housing is a critical issue that affects workforce participation, economic mobility and the long-term vitality of our communities. Through BRiC, this grant will connect workforce training with housing revitalization across a multi-county region, helping to strengthen communities."
- Brad D. Smith, President, Marshall University

"Our region has tremendous manufacturing strength, and this grant will help us build on that momentum by connecting companies to new customers, new markets and new supply chain opportunities. This is about helping existing businesses grow faster, become more competitive and create lasting economic opportunity for our communities."
- Terrell Ellis, President and CEO, Advantage Valley

"The nearly $2 million investment through ARC's Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative will allow BridgeValley, in partnership with West Virginia University at Parkersburg, to establish a regional manufacturing training corridor that connects West Virginians with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in high-demand careers."
- Cody Tomblin, Director of Strategic Initiatives, BridgeValley Community and Technical College

The awards are part of 11 West Virginia projects receiving more than $12.5 million through ARC's FY2025 POWER initiative. Seven other projects include funding for Advantage Valley, BridgeValley Community and Technical College, West Virginia University Research Corporation, Bethany College, the Town of Gauley Bridge, Future Generations University, and the Preston County Economic Development Authority.

Additional community development funding opportunities are available, with application deadlines approaching.

• October 30, 2026: ARC Area Development
• November 6, 2026: Land and Water Conservation Fund
• January 15, 2027: Community Development Block Grant

The Appalachian Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership supporting economic development throughout Appalachia. Its POWER initiative helps coal-impacted communities create jobs, strengthen their workforce, and develop new economic opportunities.