AGP Executive Report

Tourism Awards: West Virginia’s 2026 Vacation Guide just won a U.S. Travel ESTO Award for Excellence in Print Marketing, with distribution topping 350,000 copies nationwide. Outdoor Adventure: The Gauley River’s 2026 whitewater season kicks off Sept. 11, with six weekends of controlled releases from Summersville Dam through mid-October. Health & Access: WVU’s mobile lung cancer screening unit, LUCAS, will visit Putnam, Clay, and Ritchie counties in late September for low-dose CT scans, with options for insured and qualifying uninsured patients. Family-Friendly Fun: The Mon Valley Railroad Historical Society hosts a back-to-school model railroad open house at Mountaineer Mall in Morgantown this weekend. Local Travel Planning: A rolling roadblock on US 50 in Berkeley County (Second Street Bridge overhead framework removal) runs Aug. 27, 9 a.m.-noon, with alternate exits and expected delays. Road Safety & Weather: Heavy rains flooded parts of Tyler County, forcing detours and washing out a culvert, though roads have reopened. Transportation Spotlight: The rebuilt Sgt. Elbert Kinser Bridge after Hurricane Helene earned top regional honors for technology and innovation in the 2026 America’s Transportation Awards.

Tourism Marketing Win: The West Virginia Department of Tourism’s 2026 West Virginia Vacation Guide just won a U.S. Travel ESTO Award for Excellence in Print Marketing, with distribution now topping 350,000 copies nationwide. Health Access for Rural Travelers: WVU Medicine’s LUCAS mobile lung cancer screening unit will visit Putnam, Clay, and Ritchie counties in late September, offering low-dose CT scans by appointment. Local Event Spotlight: Parkersburg will host the 8th Annual Patriot Marching Band Invitational on Sept. 26 at the Erickson All Sports Facility, drawing high school bands from across the state. Community & Visitor Impact: Mount Hope officials shared an update on a federal floodplain buyout affecting about 66 vacant properties, including plans tied to a proposed RV park. Healthcare Infrastructure: Gov. Morrisey announced up to $2 million to expand home dialysis access across West Virginia, aiming to reduce long travel burdens for rural patients. Roadside Travel Notes: A new traffic pattern begins Sept. 1 on Golf Course Road at Winebrenners Crossroad in Berkeley County, with drivers urged to allow extra time. Safety on the Move: A sinkhole closed part of 7th Street West in Huntington, prompting alternate-route planning while crews repair damage.

Health & Access: West Virginia is rolling out a new home dialysis access push, with up to $2 million in funding to help rural patients learn about home dialysis and get navigation, education, and care coordination. Cancer Screening on the Road: WVU Medicine’s mobile lung cancer screening unit, LUCAS, will visit Putnam (Sept. 22), Clay (Sept. 23), and Ritchie (Sept. 24) for low-dose CT scans, with uninsured options supported by grants and donations. Fire Safety Milestone: Fairmont Fire Department becomes the first in West Virginia to earn NIOSH “Gold Helmet” status for its participation in the national firefighter cancer registry. Local Travel Disruptions: A new traffic pattern begins Sept. 1 at Winebrenners Crossroad in Berkeley County, with a stop sign added for northbound traffic on Golf Course Road. Community & Visitor Impact: A sinkhole closed part of 7th Street West in Huntington (between Washington and Virginia avenues), with repairs and alternate routing advised. Tourism & Culture: The Clay Center opens “I I AM WILD,” an interactive Charley Harper exhibit running through Jan. 3, 2027. Outdoor/Scenery: West Virginia’s fall foliage map is back, with a new “SWINGO” challenge tied to seasonal viewing.

Roadless Rule Fight: The Trump administration moved to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, opening the door to more roads, logging, and mining on large swaths of federally managed forest—sparking fresh concern for wildlife, watersheds, and West Virginia’s outdoor tourism base. Historic Preservation: Thurmond’s Town Council voted to sue the Interior Department to stop proposed demolitions in the Thurmond Historic District, a reminder that heritage protection is also an economic draw. Tourism & Lodging: Parkersburg’s Blennerhassett Hotel is being acquired and will join Wyndham’s Trademark Collection, bringing a major historic property into a wider booking network. Outdoor Travel Education: Oak Hill High School students took part in a STEAM TAC immersion focused on solving real-world park problems tied to New River Gorge tourism careers. Family Fun Event: Sistersville’s Mountain Mama Music Festival returns Aug. 28–30 at Sistersville Park with free admission and on-site camping/RV hookups. Local Travel Planning: Bridgeport advanced a home-rule election schedule ordinance and also approved a sports-focused lodging/training concept near Charles Pointe. Health & Safety for Travelers: AAA says Labor Day flights, hotels, tours, and gas cost more this year, with West Virginia gas averaging higher than last year.

AI + Ecosystems: WVU researchers are using AI to speed up processing of forest “breathing” data from flux towers, aiming to help scientists spot drought and wildfire impacts faster. Tourism Planning: West Virginia’s fall foliage prediction map is back, with weekly updates and a new Almost Heaven Swing BINGO challenge to drive seasonal trips. Outdoor Travel & Events: The Color Dash for Hope 5K returns Aug. 29 at ACE Adventure Resort near Oak Hill, pairing a fun color-run route with support for opioid recovery efforts across Appalachia. Local Lodging Growth: Bridgeport City Council approved a sports-focused Clutch House at Charles Pointe, adding lodging and training options near the Bridge Sports Complex. Rural Access: Gov. Morrisey announced about $2.34M to expand non-emergency medical transportation capacity statewide, targeting more vehicles, drivers, and rides for rural communities. Gas & Road Trip Reality: GasBuddy reports show West Virginia fuel prices staying volatile, with multiple counties listing lowest weekly regular/E85/E15 deals for travelers. Power-Line Backlash: Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns joined opposition to the Valley Link transmission line project, warning it could harm historic West Virginia areas. Tourism Marketing: Berkeley Springs launched a 12-week Philadelphia campaign using wrapped rideshare vehicles to boost its 250th-anniversary tourism push.

Tourism Leadership: Gov. Patrick Morrisey appointed Fayette County former delegate Kayla Kessinger as West Virginia’s new Tourism secretary, setting up a fresh push for statewide storytelling and visitor growth. New Attraction: McDowell County opened West Virginia’s first Train Observation Park in Kimball, built to let residents and travelers watch passing trains near the historic World War I Memorial Building. Road Safety for Travelers: WVDOH says it’s responding to a string of deadly crashes on Charleston’s I-64/I-77 elevated split, including vehicles leaving the interstate; high-friction surface treatment is planned for later this fall, with more countermeasures under review. Local Safety Update: WVDOH and state officials are also examining the circumstances behind the elevated interstate wrecks after multiple incidents in days. Outdoor/Travel Planning: A study using West Virginia University Extension data finds walking is common, but people may need more than just walking to meet fitness goals—useful for planning active trips. Gas Watch: GasBuddy reports midgrade at $4.03 in Marion County (week ending Aug. 15), with broader statewide averages hovering around the mid-$4 range.

Tourism Leadership: Gov. Patrick Morrisey appointed former Fayette County delegate Kayla Kessinger as West Virginia’s new Tourism secretary, calling her a “great storyteller” as she steps in after Chelsea Ruby. Business & Hospitality: West Virginia University’s John Chambers College named the 2026 inductees for the West Virginia Business Hall of Fame, with the Sept. 1 ceremony set for The Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs. Arts & Live Music: Tony Trischka brought his banjo to Mountain Stage in West Virginia, with fans traveling from across the country for the show. Events: The 12th annual Summer West Virginia Tattoo Expo runs Aug. 21–23 at the Morgantown Event Center, drawing 200+ artists and vendors. Road & Travel Planning: Route 690 bridge reconstruction begins Sept. 8 with phased lane narrowing and shifting traffic; drivers should expect changing patterns and added travel time. Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reports show diesel and premium prices remain volatile, with several counties posting their lowest week-ending Aug. 15 figures. Safety Alerts: WVU Tech police are investigating vehicle break-ins and an auto theft on the Beckley campus, urging visitors to lock cars and keep valuables out of sight.

Tourism Leadership: West Virginia’s new tourism secretary, Kayla Kessinger, made her first public appearance at the State Fair, saying her top priorities are getting to know the tourism team and making sure the late-September tourism conference goes well. Regional Travel Ideas: Visit Southern West Virginia used the state fair to spotlight nearby adventures across Summers, Raleigh, Wyoming and more—an easy pitch for travelers looking beyond the fairgrounds. Local Events: The 12th annual Summer West Virginia Tattoo Expo returns Aug. 21-23 at the Morgantown Event Center, with 200+ artists, vendors, contests and a Miss Tattooed West Virginia pageant. Road & Trip Planning: Expect weekend delays on I-64 East in Putnam County as it’s narrowed to one lane between mile markers 34-35. Safety Watch: WVU Tech police are investigating vehicle break-ins and an auto theft on the Beckley campus, urging visitors to lock cars and keep valuables out of sight. Water Recreation Alert: Kanawha Falls is posting biohazard water warnings tied to a 2022 sewer damage case, with WVDEP pursuing legal action—plan accordingly if you’re headed for outdoor water activities.

Road & Safety Updates: Crews will start phased work on the Rt. 690 bridge over Rt. 7 on Sept. 8, narrowing lanes and shifting traffic in stages—drivers should expect changing patterns and extra caution around the zone. Crash Hot Spot: WVDOT says it’s studying safety measures after repeated vehicles went over barriers near the I-64/77 split, including a deadly crash that landed in a Charleston yard. Tourism Leadership: Kayla Kessinger, West Virginia’s new tourism secretary, made a State Fair appearance and says her first priorities are meeting the tourism team and preparing for the late-September tourism conference. Southern WV Spotlight: Visit Southern West Virginia promoted regional adventures during its State Fair run, encouraging fairgoers to explore nearby counties. Local Events: The 12th annual Summer West Virginia Tattoo Expo returns Aug. 21-23 in Morgantown with 200+ artists, vendors, and contests. Weekend Planning: Good Roads Bakehouse in Greenbrier County celebrates five years with its famous pepperoni rolls. Health & Water Concern: Kanawha Falls faces visitor worry as biohazard water warning signs appear; WVDEP says the issue traces to 2022 flooding and untreated sewage, now in civil litigation. Travel Disruption: I-64 East in Putnam County will be narrowed to one lane between mile markers 34-35 over the weekend.

Tourism Leadership: West Virginia’s new tourism secretary, Kayla Kessinger, made an early stop at the State Fair and said her top priorities are getting to know the tourism team and preparing for the late-September tourism conference. Local Travel Safety: Kanawha Falls is posting biohazard water warnings after a 2022 flood damaged a sewer line and untreated sewage entered the watershed; the DEP has filed a civil action against the local public service district. Power & Property Concerns: Randolph County officials voted to oppose the proposed Valley North transmission line, arguing it could harm property owners and serve out-of-state interests. Road Trip Watch: I-64 East in Putnam County will be narrowed to one lane this weekend between mile markers 34 and 35, with delays expected. Community Stops for Visitors: The West Virginia Tattoo Expo returns to Morgantown this weekend with 200+ artists and on-site events. Health & Travel Planning: NOAA’s seasonal outlook points to a warmer-than-average fall for much of the U.S., with West Virginia in the “equal chances” zone. Crime & Travel Impact: A murder suspect tied to a Florida killing was arrested in West Virginia and faces extradition back to Florida.

Tourism Leadership: West Virginia’s new Tourism Secretary Kayla Kessinger hit the State Fair this week, saying her first priorities are getting to know the tourism team and making sure the late-September tourism conference goes well. Road & Travel Planning: Expect weekend delays on I-64 East in Putnam County as it’s narrowed to one lane for road work. Power & Property: Randolph County officials voted to oppose the proposed Valley North Transmission Line, arguing it could harm property owners and serve out-of-state interests. Family-Friendly Arts & Learning: The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences mourned the sudden death of President/CEO Al Najjar, known for pushing STEAM education and programs like Clay2Go. Local Food Tourism: Good Roads Bakehouse in Greenbrier County is celebrating five years, drawing visitors with its pepperoni rolls and small-town, locally sourced approach. Outdoor Travel Timing: A rolling roadblock is planned on I-64 in Greenbrier County Aug. 30 for fiber installation. Events: The West Virginia Tattoo Expo returns to Morgantown this weekend with 200+ artists, plus contests and walk-ins.

Tourism Leadership: Huntington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau names Anna Adkins as its new president, filling the vacancy left by Tyson Compton, bringing 13+ years of CVB sales/marketing experience and Tourism Works credentials. Fall Foliage Planning: West Virginia Department of Tourism continues rolling out its 2026 fall foliage map and autumn “SWINGO” challenge, giving travelers a fresh reason to plan weekend drives. Road-Trip Reality Checks: Expect delays and detours as West Virginia crews handle roadwork—Coal River Mountain Road gets a short pipe-replacement construction zone (Aug. 24-25), and a rolling roadblock on I-64 in Greenbrier County is set for Aug. 30 (7 a.m.-11 a.m.). Local Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reports E15 and diesel deals across the state, with E15 as low as $3.06 in Marshall County and diesel dipping to $4.14 in Wood County—handy for budget-minded travelers. Outdoors & Community: Scouts from Warwick Troop 45 wrapped up a summer of high-adventure at the Summit Bechtel Reserve and camp at Ten Mile River Scout Reservation, with lots of outdoor merit badges.

Tourism & Travel: West Virginia Department of Tourism rolled out its 2026 fall foliage map and the Autumn “SWINGO” challenge, giving visitors a fresh reason to plan weekend drives and photo stops. Local Attractions: A new “Almost Heaven” swing was unveiled at Virginia Point Park in Kenova, built by local residents and designed for river views across Ohio and Kentucky. Outdoor & Heritage: The Appalachian Forest Discovery Summit is set for Sept. 17–18 at The Railyard Event Center in Elkins, with talks and Randolph County tours aimed at boosting sustainable recreation and forest-based community projects. Power & Land-Use: Clarke County supervisors voted to hire special legal counsel to fight the Valley North transmission line, setting aside $500,000 and signaling a major legal fight ahead. Road Safety for Travelers: A new look at wildlife crashes highlights that white-tailed deer are West Virginia’s most common everyday threat on highways, with animal-vehicle collisions contributing to fatalities. Sports Schedule: WVU released its 2027 Big 12 baseball schedule, including home series at Kendrick Family Ballpark and a full slate of conference matchups. Gas Watch: GasBuddy reported the lowest diesel price in Wood County at $4.14 for the week ending Aug. 15, plus low E15 pricing in Randolph County at $3.07.

Tourism & Hospitality: West Virginia’s tourism push got a boost as the Top of West Virginia CVB expanded marketing opportunities after reporting a 13% jump in hotel occupancy tax revenue across Weirton, Brooke County and Hancock County, plus new partnerships tied to local events like the Brooke County Farmers Market. Visitor Experience: The University of Charleston rolled out an expanded 2026 UC Adventure Guide with nearly 100 nearby campus, Charleston, and day-trip ideas—parks, waterfalls, hiking trails, festivals, and local businesses—for travelers and residents who want “close-to-home” adventures. Fall Foliage Buzz: The state tourism agency continues building anticipation with its 2026 fall foliage map and Autumn “SWINGO” challenge. Big-Draw Destination: Wheeling’s Gateway Center Visitor and Heritage Center moved closer to construction after Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced an additional $3.2 million grant to help break ground on the $25 million project. Lodging & Stays: The historic Blennerhassett Hotel and Spa changed hands, with new ownership aiming to keep the property’s community-focused feel while aligning with a major hotel brand. Outdoor Travel Disruption: New River Gorge National Park reported road closures after severe storms and flooding, including Cunard Road and other key routes, affecting access for visitors and some rafting operations. Health & Access: WVU opened Phase 1 of a major dental school clinic modernization in Morgantown to help address statewide dental shortages. Road Safety for Families: Police reminded drivers to stop for school buses with warning lights as the school year begins, with enforcement and penalties emphasized.

Fall Travel Planning: West Virginia’s Department of Tourism rolled out a 2026 fall foliage projection map with weekly updates starting mid-September, plus the Almost Heaven Swing BINGO (“SWINGO”) challenge with nearly 60 swing photo-op stops and prizes for check-ins. Road & Outdoor Disruptions: New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is dealing with storm damage and slides, with key roads like Cunard Road and Glade Creek Road closed (Nuttalburg Road also shut), affecting access for visitors and some rafting schedules. Tourism Infrastructure: Wheeling’s Gateway Center Visitor and Heritage Center cleared its final funding hurdle with a $3.2 million Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization grant, setting up construction near the Suspension Bridge. Local Hospitality Change: The Blennerhassett Hotel and Spa in Parkersburg officially changed hands under Taylor Hospitality, keeping the property’s community-focused identity while moving toward a Wyndham brand. Health & Community Access: WVU’s School of Dentistry opened Phase 1 of a major clinic modernization (first since 1957) to help address statewide dental shortages. Sports Spotlight: WVU men’s soccer opens its 2026 season Aug. 20 at Charlotte, with kickoff at 7 p.m. Practical Trip Notes: GasBuddy reports show bargain fuel pockets for road trips, including Greenbrier regular at $3.39 and Brooke E85 at $3.39 in the week ending Aug. 8.

Tourism Push: West Virginia Department of Tourism rolled out a 2026 fall foliage projection map with weekly updates starting mid-September, plus the Almost Heaven “SWINGO” fall bingo challenge with nearly 60 swing photo-op stops and prizes. New Leadership: Gov. Patrick Morrisey appointed former Fayette County delegate Kayla Kessinger as West Virginia’s Secretary of Tourism, citing record tourism momentum and Tourism Works workforce milestones. Visitor Experience Upgrade: Wheeling’s Gateway Center Visitor and Heritage Center cleared the final funding hurdle with a $3.2 million Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization grant, aiming to break ground and boost downtown heritage tourism. Local Safety & Community Help: Sistersville approved park security cameras; Monongalia County deputies will ticket drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses; and Beckley Dream Center partners are setting up flood relief resources at Robson Freewill Baptist Church. Nature & Outdoors: National Park Week spotlights New River Gorge as a different kind of park—railroads, communities, hunting, climbing, and rafting all in one place. Industry & Jobs: Pocahontas County’s Beckwith Lumber is getting a $1.03M USFS grant for sawmill upgrades after reopening from an electrical fire.