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2025 in Review: Building Momentum for Wyoming County’s Future

As we reflect on 2025, the Wyoming County Economic Development Authority (EDA) is proud to share a year defined by progress, partnership, and a continued commitment to strengthening our local economy. From major industrial investments to new tools for small businesses and meaningful community initiatives, this year has laid important groundwork for long-term growth across Wyoming County.

Advancing Industrial Development

One of the most significant areas of progress in 2025 has been the continued advancement of key industrial park projects.

At the forefront is the Barkers Creek Industrial Park, a transformative development designed to support job creation and attract new industry. Through strong collaboration with local, state, and federal partners, more than $5.6 million in funding has been secured to move the project forward. While the bid period has been extended into early 2026 to allow for additional planning and funding alignment, this strategic pause ensures the project is positioned for long-term success.

Once complete, the site will feature industrial shell buildings, a new freight access bridge, expanded power infrastructure, and other critical upgrades to support advanced manufacturing. The project’s anchor tenant, AmeriCarbon Enterprises, is expected to bring significant investment and nearly 60 full-time jobs—marking a major step forward for Wyoming County’s industrial base.

Similarly, progress continues at the Rockefeller Industrial Park, where an expansion project with Oceanetics, Inc. is underway. While the project timeline has shifted slightly to allow for further coordination, plans include a new 15,000-square-foot facility equipped with industrial cranes and infrastructure for high-load manufacturing. This investment is expected to create approximately 25 new jobs and further diversify the county’s economy.

Supporting Local Businesses

In 2025, the EDA also launched new tools designed to better support local businesses and entrepreneurs.

The Wyoming County Business Directory, now live at WyomingCountyBusinessHub.com, provides a free and accessible platform for businesses to connect with customers and each other. From retail shops and restaurants to service providers and nonprofits, the directory helps showcase the depth and diversity of Wyoming County’s local economy.

In addition, the launch of the Wyoming County EDA Borrower Portal and Loan Application has made it easier than ever for borrowers to manage loans online. With features like secure payments, transaction tracking, and application tools, the portal improves efficiency and transparency for local businesses.

Investing in People and Community

Beyond economic development, the EDA remains committed to investing in the people who make Wyoming County strong.

In partnership with the Beckley Area Foundation, the Wyoming County Community Fund awarded its 2025 scholarship to Peyton Armstrong, supporting his pursuit of skilled trades training at the Wyoming County Career and Technical Center. This investment reflects the importance of workforce development and creating opportunities for local residents.

The fifth annual Wyoming County Writing Contest also celebrated creativity and storytelling across all age groups, while the Community Fund Bingo Fundraiser brought nearly 200 attendees together and raised approximately $10,000 to support future initiatives.

Additionally, the EDA recognized the contributions of AmeriCorps VISTA Luke Miller, whose work helped launch key initiatives like the Business Directory, Online Interactive Loan Maps, and Industry Cluster Analysis—creating systems that will benefit the community for years to come.

Celebrating a Dedicated Team

None of this progress would be possible without the dedicated team behind the Wyoming County EDA. In 2025, we celebrate many years of service for  our staff members, including Executive Director Christy Laxton and Loans and Operations Administrative Assistant Laura Roberts-Lambert, each marking 24 years of service. Their leadership, along with the contributions of team member Brenda Reed with 4 years of service, continues to drive meaningful impact across the county.

Looking Ahead

The progress made in 2025 reflects a shared vision for a stronger, more resilient Wyoming County. Through strategic investments, innovative tools, and community-focused initiatives, the Wyoming County EDA remains committed to building opportunity and supporting growth for years to come.

Thank you to our partners, businesses, and residents for being part of this journey. We look forward to continuing this momentum in the year ahead.