MOUNT HOPE, WV (WOAY) – The city of Mount Hope recently made an intergovernmental agreement with Raleigh County regarding the Appalachian Heights site.
Mayor Michael Kessinger calls it a positive step that they annexed Route 19 south into Raleigh at the North Beckley exit, expanding the city’s boundaries and the pipe yard adjacent to 19 to the right.
“We’re hoping to see development happen in the area,” the mayor said. “It’s valuable property where it’s adjacent to the turnpike and right there outside of Beckley. It’s really a good connector.”
Kessinger says geographically the Appalachian Heights site provides easy access.
“A lot of the population in the United States is within six to eight hours of here. So I think that we’re attractive for a lot of reasons,” he said.
Entering into the annexation took cooperation from both Raleigh and Fayette County Commissions. What it would look like, and how it would affect Raleigh County and the city of Mount Hope. They felt like it would be beneficial for both parties.
“It’s a good opportunity for the city to be able to expand our boundaries,” said the mayor. “It’s an old city, tucked away and being able to reach out there on 19 and go over into Raleigh County was really monumental.”
Interest was piqued by the annexation into Mount Hope proposal and a subsequent petition.
“We’re very excited about the annexation and to be able to expand the city’s boundaries,” Kessinger said. “And we look for great potential in the area.”
