This week I attended a meeting with the Region Planning and Development Council which serves seven counties that include Barbour, Braxton, Gilmer, Lewis, Randolph, Tucker, and Upshur. Region VII is one of eleven planning and development councils in the state of West Virginia. Their mission is to function as a “development district” to optimize the use of funding resources and enhance our communities’ ability to secure funds from federal, state, and local organizations. Region VII PDC goal is to foster community and economic development and promote intergovernmental cooperation throughout the state. By working closely with our regional affiliates, they aim to ensure stability, growth, and progress in West Virginia. They particularly focus on supporting local districts that lack the staff for grant writing and project planning. One of the guest speakers was Daniel Eades, from WVU extension who presented WV Development Housing Funds Needs Assessment. The housing issue present in the region includes land hoarding and the lack of developers. As the region looks to grow and attract business investment, housing solutions will be a top priority.
I also attended a meeting with the West Virginia Department of Highways- District 7 to discuss current and future highway projects.
Braxton County Fall 2024/2025 Planned Projects
- Kenton Meadows Sr. Bridges N/S-Structure Repair/Approach Repair/Clean and Paint
- Gassaway Rd., WV 4, MP 11.53-Resurfacing/Drainage/Guardrail (1.82 miles)
- Flatwoods-Heaters Rd., US 19, MP 16.59-Resurfacing/Guardrail (1.57 miles)
- Church St. Bridge-Church St., Burnsville/Structure Repair
- Burnsville-Weston Rd., I-79 SB, MP 79.82-Piling Wall Construction
- South Main Street, Burnsville, CO 28/, MP 2.04-Piling Wall Construction (three locations)
- Chemical Town Rd., CO 28/1, MP 2.04-Piling Wall Construction
- South Main Street, Burnsville, CO 5/11, MP 1.71-Soil Nail Construction
- Burnsville-Gem Rd., WV 5, MP Varies-Soil Nail Construction
- Weston-Burnsville, I-79 SB, MP 79.80-Soil Nail Construction
- Wilsie-Rosedale Rd., CO 9, MP 10.33-Soil Nail Construction
- Frametown-Flatwoods Rd., I-79, MP 49.40-Micro Surfacing (22.0 miles)
- I-79, CO 21, O/P Bridge N/S, I-79, MP 54.18-Bridge Repair
Gilmer County Fall 2024/2025 Planned Projects - Leading Creek W-Beam, WV 5, MP 10.69-Bridge Replacement
- Sand Fork-Burnsville Rd., WV 5, MP 23.50-Resurfacing/Drainage/Guardrail (1.89 miles)
- Coxs Mills Rd., WV 47, MP 6.22-Parapet Removal, Deck/Wingwall Repair
- Glenville-Burnsville Rd., WV 5, MP 19.28-Soil Nail Construction
- Normantown – Gassaway Rd., CO 19, MP Varies-Piling Wall Construction
- Third Run
I’m excited to see these projects being done in our area. I ask that as you encounter the workers on projects, that you be patient and follow construction signs. These workers’ safety may depend on you.
I was delighted to present a Local Economic Development Assistance Grant to Burnsville Public Utility for the purchase of essential equipment that will significantly enhance customer service and benefit the community. A special thank you to Debbie Waldron for recognizing the need and taking proactive steps to address it. Your dedication to improving our community is truly appreciated.
I had the incredible honor of participating in a 100th birthday celebration by issuing a special citation from the West Virginia Legislature to Gladys Marie Hawkins Wiliams. It was a heartwarming event, filled with joy and admiration for a well-lived life.
The citation recognized not only the milestone of reaching
100 years but also the remarkable contributions and legacy of Gladys. It was a privilege to be part of this momentous occasion and to celebrate the rich history and experiences of someone who has witnessed a century of change and progress. Thank you to Gladys’ family for inviting me to be part of the celebration.
A huge round of applause to the Braxton County Girls Cross Country team and their dedicated coaches for clinching the West Virginia State Cross Country Meet Title for the second consecutive year! Your hard work, unwavering commitment, and incredible team spirit have truly propelled you to this remarkable victory. Braxton County couldn’t be prouder of your outstanding achievement. Keep shining and inspiring us all!
Congratulations also to the Braxton County High School cheerleaders on their victory in their first competition of the season. I wish them luck as they travel next weekend to regional competition.
I also wanted to extend my good luck wishes to the Gilmer County High School Volleyball Team as they continue tournament play.
It’s hard to believe it is already November. As we enter the season of Thanksgiving, I hope we can all take the time to be thankful for the blessings of being part of our communities. We are so fortunate to live here where neighbors still look out for each other.
“The more you practice the art of thankfulness, the more you have to be thankful for.”
(Norman Vincent Peale)
I look forward to hearing from people in the district and hope to see you out and about enjoying all the great things our area has to offer. I can be contacted at lori.dittman@wv house.gov or 304-701-8600.