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Focus groups offer input on future of city

By CRAIG HOWELL 3 min read

WEIRTON -- Weirton has opportunities before it, but work is needed to reach the city's potential.

That was the consensus of two focus group meetings held at the Millsop Community Center Wednesday as part of ongoing efforts to update Weirton's Comprehensive Development Plan.

Amy Wiles, a consultant from Mackin Engineering who has been working on the plan update, explained they decided to dedicate Wednesday's focus groups on the areas of Main Street revitalization and city-wide economic development, inviting local officials, business owners and others to get their opinions.

"There is a different focus for Main Street and downtown than the rest of the city," Wiles said.

Barb Barkley, manager of the Fairfield Inn and Suites, noted the efforts of many in the business community to support each other.

"We still have that small-town feel," Barkley said.

Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce President Brenda Mull agreed, saying local business owners take pride in serving their community, and the chamber works to promote shopping locally.

Weirton's proximity to Pittsburgh, growth at Weirton Medical Center, area educational opportunities and increasing land availability were among the assets noted Wednesday.

Among those needs discussed were new housing opportunities, improved lighting along the roadways and additional sidewalks in several areas of the city.

Wiles said better defined areas, walkability in downtown and directional signage were discussed as needs, with suggestions made about the possibility of a facade program and housing also promoted.

Resident David Cline noted the benefit of the Panhandle Recreational Trail, which he said brings many visitors to Weirton. However, he noted there is little opportunity for bicyclists to get to other areas of the city.

"They want a shower, they want a campground, they want a hotel," he said, suggesting links from the trails to city roads or a shuttle service.

Richard Saxon, owner of R.E. Saxon Jeweler, suggested the possibility of trying different ways to market the community, explaining improved efforts need to be made to attract visitors and potential new residents and businesses.

"We have a lot to work with," Saxon said. "We just need to tell our story better."

Michael Whalen, who recently opened EscapeWorks in Weirton, said he moved to the area from Florida, and believes there are a lot of businesses which don't need any special support or features to operate. It's a matter of letting them know more about Weirton, he said.

Concerns were expressed over issues with the city's zoning and inspections procedures, with several noting past problems to get business and community projects addressed.

Ward 1 Councilman Tim Connell, who also sits on the Planning Commission, said efforts have been made to better streamline city operations, including the areas dealing with business development and permitting.

"They've cut a lot of red tape out," Connell said.

Wiles explained there are plans for other public input opportunities during the update process, and a proposal should be ready in the next four to six months.

(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com, and followed via Twitter @CHowellWDT)

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