Economic Development and Jobs

I firmly believe that a key to unlocking the economic promise and potential of southern West Virginia lies in the “Three T’s” – transportation, technology, and tourism.

As the top Democrat and longtime member of House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am working hard to help build and improve West Virginia’s transportation and water infrastructure.  If we hope to attract new businesses and new visitors to our State, we must continue to work to overcome the hurdles of our mountainous terrain.   We must continue building safer, more modern  highways and bridges.  We must continue to improve our airports and navigable waterways, as well as our water and sewer systems, amenities that businesses require when seeking to relocate and expand. My position on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee enables me to help advance such infrastructure to create jobs.

I am, as well, fighting hard for Federal investments in education and workforce training, along with programs that promote innovation in our manufacturing sector.  Through Federal investments I have supported, our State is helping to lead the way in fossil energy research related to coal and natural gas. Investments I have supported for our State are making possible cutting-edge scientific breakthroughs in agriculture, medicine, and forensic science, creating new jobs in the region and benefitting mankind worldwide. 

In addition, through my long tenure on the House Natural Resources Committee, I have been successful in helping to promote West Virginia’s natural splendors and cultural treasures, attracting visitors from around the world to spend time among West Virginia’s majestic hills and friendly folk.  I helped to secure Federal designations at places such as the New River Gorge National River, bringing the Gorge into the National Park System; the Gauley River National Recreation Area and the Bluestone National Scenic River, creating the largest network of federally protected rivers in the eastern United States; the Monongahela National Forest, expanding wilderness areas; and the National Coal Heritage Area, which runs throughout 11 southern West Virginia counties and helps to highlight the rich heritage and history of the region.  In July 2013, southern West Virginia will proudly host the Boy Scout’s National Jamboree at the Summit Bechtel Reserve, highlighting the economic growth and investment opportunities that derive from our efforts in safeguarding West Virginia’s special places for future generations to enjoy.

I remain convinced that Federal investments in our physical and human capital are essential to creating new job opportunities for our State, as well as maintaining our Nation’s predominant economic position in the world.