OEDC Today

18 new bikes are available through Youth Cycling Coalition programs 

“We’d have those people living here, paying taxes and contributing to the community, as well as creating demand for restaurants and bars and other venues. It could be a super cool boost to the area and create momentum for many of our towns.”

"The outdoor economy can provide opportunities for locals and visitors to the state through sustainable economic development, education and workforce development, opportunities to enhance health and wellness, and further support conservation and stewardship efforts."

"In our annual contest we placed 32 schools against each other in a bracket-style competition and received a flood of online voting from fans of their favorite schools. The colleges were chosen based on academic curricula, outdoor clubs, commitment to environmental initiatives, and, of course, access to adventure. Ultimately two winners—West Virginia University and WVU Institute of Technology—tied for the top prize."

"West Virginia has a premier mix of outdoor recreation possibilities - so good, they can be used for the basis of the state's economic and demographic rebound. "

"Jina Belcher, executive director of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority, and Danny Twilley, assistant dean of the Brad & Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative at West Virginia University, led the discussion focusing on mapping, funding and feasibility issues facing expansion of the trail opportunities in the region."

"'We’ve built a program that success successfully integrates physical sciences, environmental sciences, adventure sports and experiential education,” SAS director Ali Jeney says. “But now we want to make sure that that never becomes generic. And regardless of the areas of the state where we extend into, it needs to be specialized for every student.'"

"Trading on the state’s rich outdoor recreation resources, the Ascend WV remote worker relocation incentive program offers a nice package of perks to people who can bring their jobs to West Virginia. Morgantown is its first site—and we all stand to benefit."

"West Virginia today launched the nation's premiere remote-work program, aimed at recruiting outdoor-enthusiast professionals to the Mountain State. Ascend WV is supported by West Virginia native Brad D. Smith and his wife Alys, and allows adventurers to enjoy world-class outdoor recreation, uncrowded spaces, and a low cost of living while staying fully connected to their jobs."