BECKLEY W.Va. (WVDN) – During its August 25 board meeting, the board of directors of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) formally adopted its state legislative priorities, setting the stage for focused advocacy in the upcoming year.
“These priorities represent more than just policy positions – they reflect years of hard work, consistent progress, and our commitment to advancing economic and community development across the New River Gorge region,” said Jina Belcher, Executive Director of NRGRDA. “Each issue identified by our board is a legacy topic that we have been working to move forward in partnership with our communities, businesses, and state leaders. We are seeing momentum, and these priorities will allow us to push even further.”
Belcher emphasized that the priorities are intended to strengthen the foundation for sustainable growth in Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh, and Summers counties while positioning southern West Virginia as a competitive player in the state’s future.
NRGRDA’s Legislative Priorities for 2026
1. Economic Development Investment
Economic growth depends on strong state-local partnerships and well-funded programs for site readiness, business attraction, and entrepreneurship. Local development authorities must also be funded to deliver these programs effectively. Investments should be flexible, predictable and aligned with regional needs.
2. Reliable Local Revenue
Communities need stable, responsive revenue tools to invest in services and infrastructure. Local governments must be able to grow with their economies without overburdening residents. Fiscal reforms should support long-term sustainability and local decision-making.
3. Infrastructure
Reliable broadband, water, sewer, and transportation systems are essential for growth. Many communities still lack the infrastructure needed to attract business or support residents. Sustained investment, streamlined permitting, and public-private coordination are key to making sites development ready and closing long-standing gaps.
4. Land Use
Strategic land reuse is essential to revitalizing communities and attracting investment. Tools like land reuse agencies give local governments the ability to return properties to productive use. Paired with modernized tax and title processes, these efforts can accelerate redevelopment for housing, businesses, and job creation.
5. Workforce & Attainable Housing
Housing shortages limit workforce growth and economic development. Policies must support workforce housing, reduce development barriers and empower local planning. To grow, not just retain, our population, communities need housing options for people who want to live and work here. Without available housing, new residents and recruits have nowhere to go.
6. Childcare Access & Affordability
Childcare is critical to workforce participation and employer stability. Limited access and high costs keep adults out of work and deter business investment. Recognizing childcare as core infrastructure and supporting public-private solutions will strengthen local economies and working families.
“To make further enhancements throughout our four-county region – setting a high standard for growth and opportunity in southern West Virginia – we will be releasing more specific details about our direct policy recommendations as we approach the start of the 2026 state legislative session,” Belcher added. “Our goal is to ensure these priorities not only gain traction but also result in meaningful, measurable outcomes for the people and businesses we serve.”
The NRGRDA board, made up of government, business and community leaders in Fayette, Raleigh, Nicholas and Summers counties, are united in these legislative and funding priorities.
