Today at the New River Gorge National Park, Senator Joe Manchin gave a briefing to prominent leaders in Fayette, Raleigh, Summers, and Nicholas counties.
During the event, Ryan Thorn, West Virginia state director of the USDA, announced over 14.8 million dollars in new grants, direct loans, and loan guarantees across the state.
According to Thorn, the money will impact the whole area, and not just the people directly receiving the money.
“A rising tide lifts all boats. We know the financial impact that the New River Gorge brings to this region. And so it’s great that we’re able to leverage what we have here at the New River Gorge region, leverage our federal funding to enhance the good things that are happening here,” he said.
A total of 9.5 million is going to businesses and organizations in Raleigh, Fayette, Nicholas and Summers counties.
The grants and loans go to a variety of organizations, businesses, and local governments to help with different needs, ranging from the purchase of necessary vehicles to renovation of buildings to spur small business.
During the event, Manchin also gave an update on the economic impact of the New River Gorge National Park.
In total, the New River Gorge National Park has generated $3.7 billion since January 2021.
