Governor Patrick Morrisey announced on May 21 a $12 million Regional Hub Tourism and Recreational Complex in Upshur County. This funding, combined with earlier grants, brings the total investment for the project to $16.5 million.
The project aims to boost local tourism and provide new recreational opportunities for residents. Governor Morrisey said, “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Upshur County and the surrounding region. 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 first phase of development will include baseball, soccer, and lacrosse fields as well as mountain bike flow tracks, an ice-skating rink, and a Snowflex tubing hill designed for year-round recreation. The land was made available through a donation of 70 acres by the J.F. Allen Company along with Joyce Allen and John Allen.
A master plan was developed by the Upshur County Commission in 2022. Officials expect to open construction bids before the end of this year.
Governor Morrisey also referenced broader economic growth across West Virginia since October with private sector investments totaling $12.8 billion expected to create more than 12,000 jobs statewide. He said projects like the John C. Allen Regional Hub Tourism and Recreational Complex are part of efforts to improve quality of life while supporting continued economic momentum: “West Virginia is building momentum across every corner of the state,” said 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.”
Jim Justice has championed youth programs and constituent engagement through his office; he served as governor focusing on economic growth; he was elected U.S senator from West Virginia; he obtained undergraduate degree and MBA from Marshall University; he is a lifelong resident drawing on state experiences in his senatorial role; Justice captained Marshall University’s golf team—all according to the official website.
