Announces first time state has partnered with community to build an official welcome center

WHEELING, WV — Gov. Jim Justice announced on Oct 29th, $4.4 million in funding through the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) grant program for the Wheeling Gateway Center. 

Funding will be utilized to redevelop the former Wheeling Inn site into the Wheeling Gateway Center. The 20,000-square-foot welcome center will feature a heritage museum, event space, retail shops, office areas, a marquee restaurant, and outdoor plazas.

This historic investment marks the first time the state has partnered with a local community to build an official state welcome center. The model will allow more flexibility in the building's uses and free up West Virginia Division of Highways state employees who have traditionally had to oversee these facilities in addition to the roads in their district.

“What an honor to be here today to celebrate another historic investment for Wheeling,” Gov. Justice said. “This is our first welcome center where we drive people into town, and Wheeling is an incredible place to do so. By revitalizing the old Wheeling Inn, we are blending a piece of our history with the incredible future ahead. The Gateway Center will be a state-of-the-art destination where visitors can get a true West Virginia experience. We’re making massive strides in tourism, moving away from the bottom ranks and becoming a must-visit destination for thousands. Investments like this will ensure our continued growth for years to come. It’s been a real privilege to pull the rope together with all of you.”

Strategically located at the base of the historic Wheeling Suspension Bridge, the center will provide direct access to the Wheeling Heritage Trail.