Jefferson County Development Authority Receives $150,000 to Advance Business-Ready Sites

January 13, 2026

Jefferson County, W.Va. — The Jefferson County Development Authority (JCDA) has been awarded $150,000 through the West Virginia Ready Sites Program to support planning and technical work that will prepare future business-ready sites in Jefferson County. 

Administered by the West Virginia Division of Economic Development, the Ready Sites Program provides funding for engineering, architectural, environmental, and geotechnical evaluations that help move properties toward commercial and industrial readiness. Governor Patrick Morrisey announced the awards as part of a statewide effort to expand West Virginia’s inventory of development-ready locations and strengthen the state’s competitiveness for business investment. 

JCDA received two $75,000 grants, each supporting preliminary analysis and site-readiness activities for priority locations identified as having strong potential for future economic development. With all lots in the County’s existing business park sold or unavailable, this work positions Jefferson County to proactively meet future business demand and reduce development timelines for prospective employers. 

“These funds allow the JCDA to begin critical pre-development work needed to advance economic development in Jefferson County,” said Todd Wilt, President of the Jefferson County Development Authority. “By preparing sites now, we shorten the path to construction, attract higher-quality projects, and ensure the County remains competitive for new business investment.” 

The Ready Sites awards received by JCDA are part of $2.1 million distributed statewide to development organizations in 23 counties, supporting West Virginia’s long-term strategy to expand business-ready opportunities across the state. 

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