AGP Executive Report

Disaster Relief: Team Rubicon is sending disaster relief volunteers (“Greyshirts”) to help homeowners recover after late-June flooding that hit both West Virginia and Kentucky, with Boone County among the hardest areas. Road Safety: A fog-related two-vehicle crash on U.S. 23 in Jenkins killed a West Virginia woman; police say the investigation is ongoing. America250 Spotlight: Charleston kicked off its America250 Capital City Celebration with the America250 Wheel—230 feet tall, 45 gondolas, and free rides July 2-5—plus a packed Independence Day weekend calendar around the Kanawha Valley. Tourism & Outdoors: The New River Gorge region is pushing a longer-term economy beyond the national park, with a new 2025 impact report focused on business growth, infrastructure, and workforce efforts. New Attraction: Harpers Ferry is welcoming Eastern USA’s first full-time bungee jumping site, featuring a 150-foot cantilevered tower and a water-dip option. Travel Tips: AAA reports gas prices staying under $4 nationally, while Pittsburgh airport travelers described smooth TSA and parking ahead of the July Fourth rush. Weekend Events: Kanawha Valley listings highlight free music and America250 programming running Friday through Sunday.

America250 in Charleston: The 230-foot America250 Wheel is now lighting up the West Virginia Capitol skyline as the America250 Capital City Celebration runs July 2–5, with free rides and big views over Charleston and the Kanawha River. Holiday travel logistics: Downtown Charleston road closures are in effect through July 5, including parts of Kanawha Boulevard and all of California Avenue, so plan alternate routes for the Independence Day rush. Outdoor history & heritage: A new look at Appalachia’s frontier past spotlights Jenny Wiley’s disappearance and why her story still echoes across eastern Kentucky and West Virginia. Nature conservation: Arc of Appalachia is buying nearly 2,000 acres near New River Gorge to protect Piney Creek Gorge forests and advance a future trail connection to the park. Health access for rural WV: WVU Medicine’s mobile lung cancer screening unit, LUCAS, is scheduled for Monroe, Greenbrier, and Lewis counties with appointment details and screening eligibility info. Community & events: The Valley Link Transmission Line expansion drew residents and protesters to an open house in the Eastern Panhandle, while local America250 programming continues to roll out across the state.

America250 in Charleston: The America250 Wheel (230 feet) is now rising over the West Virginia Capitol as the four-day Capital City Celebration runs July 2–5, with free rides and big family-friendly plans. Travel Planning: Expect road closures around downtown Charleston—Kanawha Boulevard (Greenbrier St to California Ave) plus all of California Ave—through July 5, so visitors should reroute and build in extra time. Outdoor & Nature: Arc of Appalachia bought nearly 2,000 acres near New River Gorge at a Beckley auction, protecting Piney Creek Gorge forests and advancing a future trail connection. Local Events: Tyler County 4-H Camp wrapped June 12–15 with a Western-themed program, hands-on skills (horse, archery, fishing, outdoor cooking), and a service project assembling hygiene bags. Health Access: WVU Medicine’s mobile lung cancer screening unit, LUCAS, is scheduled to stop in Alderson (June 28), Rainelle (July 29), and Weston (July 30), with appointments required and uninsured options available through grant funding. Off-Road Tourism: GNCC returns to Snowshoe Mountain for Round 9, bringing racers and families to the “America’s Toughest Race” course.

America 250 Road Closures (Charleston): Kanawha Boulevard (Greenbrier St. to California Ave) and all of California Ave will close through July 5 for the Capital City Celebration, with drivers urged to use alternate routes and plan extra time. Greenbrier Casino License Update: The West Virginia Lottery Commission approved the Greenbrier Resort’s casino license renewal at the last minute, but the resort will face quarterly financial reviews going forward. Mobile Lung Cancer Screening (LUCAS): WVU Medicine’s LUCAS unit will stop in Monroe/Greenbrier/Lewis-area communities—appointments are required and uninsured West Virginians may qualify via grant funding. Outdoor Access Boost (Monongahela National Forest): The forest service bought a 427-acre Cunningham Knob Addition near the Laurel Fork area, expanding public access and protecting streams and habitat. Conservation Win (New River Gorge): Arc of Appalachia secured 2,000+ acres near the New River Gorge at auction, including key tracts that could help close a trail gap toward the park. Tails on Trails (Davis): West Virginia Land Trust and the Tucker County Animal Shelter team up for a free, registration-required dog-walking hike at Yellow Creek Natural Area on July 11. America 250 Local History (Upshur County): Buckhannon and Upshur County buried a community time capsule for America 250, packed with local photos, memorabilia, and documents. Public Health Watch (Ticks): Health officials report more tick-borne illness activity this summer, urging people to take bite-prevention seriously before heading outdoors.

America 250 (Capitol City): West Virginia’s Capitol City Celebration kicks off Thursday through Sunday with tours, vendors, and an artisan market at Big Wheel Plaza, plus a sensory-friendly hour on the America 250 Wheel (9–10 a.m. Friday) and a calmer Culture Center library space for guests who need reduced noise and lights. Corridor H (Parsons to Kerens): Corridor H’s new 11-mile stretch from Kerens to the Parsons interchange officially opened June 22, extending 112 miles of the corridor from Weston to Parsons, with only the Parsons-to-Davis gap still left to finish—while local groups continue to question the remaining route. Outdoor Access & Conservation: Monongahela National Forest bought the 427-acre Cunningham Knob Addition near Laurel Fork to expand public access and protect trout streams and high-elevation spruce habitat; Arc of Appalachia also secured 2,000+ acres near the New River Gorge to close a trail gap toward the park boundary. Community on the Trail: West Virginia Land Trust and the Tucker County Animal Shelter team up for “Tails on Trails” at Yellow Creek Natural Area in Davis on July 11 (free, registration required). Travel Safety (Heat): WVU experts warn humidity can make West Virginia feel far hotter than the thermometer, raising heat-stress risk for hikers, paddlers, and fair-goers—especially when the heat index tops 80.

America250 Capitol kickoff: Gov. Patrick Morrisey and Tourism Sec. Chelsea Ruby unveiled the schedule for the America250 Capital City Celebration at the West Virginia State Capitol Complex (July 2-5), featuring free tours, food vendors, an artisan market, concerts, fireworks, and the America250 Wheel. Road & heat planning: WVDOH posted rolling roadblocks on US 50 (June 29) for bridge work, and local cooling stations opened due to extreme heat and humidity—useful for travelers heading to Fourth of July events. New River Gorge “hidden side”: A guide highlights how many visitors miss the southern district’s quieter trails and Sandstone Falls, encouraging a slower, more exploratory visit. Outdoor trip ideas: A roundup names some of the most outdoorsy small towns in West Virginia, with Fayetteville and Harpers Ferry leading the list for hiking, rafting, and scenic walks. Wildlife & hunting: New West Virginia hunting regulations for 2026-27 expand bear and turkey opportunities in select southern counties and adjust youth/permit deer options. Greenbrier casino update: The Greenbrier submitted required audit information as it waits for Lottery Commission approval to renew its casino license. Local history exhibit: WVU’s West Virginia & Regional History Center opened “Mountaineers Are Always Free: West Virginia at 250,” a new exhibit built around the state’s evolving story.

America250 in Charleston: West Virginia’s official America250 Capital City Celebration is set for July 2-5 on the Capitol Complex, pairing free concerts, fireworks, history, artisan vendors, guided Capitol tours, and family activities with the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta—expect big crowds and road-closure planning. America250 on the move: The America 250 Relay for America is projected to pass through Wheeling this week as more than 250 runners carry a single flag east toward Washington, D.C., with the Wheeling segment expected around 9:15 p.m. Capitol grounds upgrade: Gov. Patrick Morrisey says the America250 Wheel—free rides, family-focused programming, and a $2M budget—will help kick off the festivities starting Thursday. Local America250 moment: Upshur County and Buckhannon buried a community time capsule at the historic Pringle Tree site, packed with photos, maps, letters, and local memorabilia to be opened in 2076. New River Gorge “hidden side”: A new visitor guide highlights how many people miss the southern district’s quieter forests, Sandstone Falls, and historic river communities—an easy pitch for travelers seeking less-crowded hikes and waterfalls. Outdoor travel picks: A roundup spotlights “outdoorsy” West Virginia towns like Fayetteville and Harpers Ferry as ideal bases for rafting, ziplining, and scenic walking. Road trip logistics: WVDOH District Four warns of rolling roadblocks on US 50 near the Fourth Street Bridge Monday (June 29), with alternate exits at Joyce and Chestnut and delays likely. Hunting planning: New 2026-27 hunting rules expand options in parts of southern WV and adjust youth opportunities—important for fall visitors who hunt. Lodging tech trend: WVU hospitality research says AI is taking over routine hotel tasks, but travelers still value human hospitality for the memorable parts of a trip.

Holiday travel prep: AAA says the Fourth of July will be the busiest driving holiday of the year, with millions hitting the road—West Virginia drivers are urged to check tires, fluids, lights, and pack an emergency kit. Road alerts: WVDOH District Four warns of rolling roadblocks on US 50 Monday (June 29) for work under the Fourth Street Bridge, with delays and alternate exits at Joyce and Chestnut. America 250 in West Virginia: The America 250 Relay for America is projected to pass through Wheeling this week, and the America250 mural project is rolling out across all 55 counties. Tourism calendar: The West Virginia Department of Tourism’s America250 celebration at the Capitol Complex runs July 2–5 with music, tours, an artisan market, light shows, local food, and fireworks. Outdoors & wildlife: Fireflies are peaking across West Virginia this week, and the WV Land Trust’s “Tails on Trails” hike (July 11) pairs a Yellow Creek Natural Area walk with shelter dog volunteering. Local history: Champe Rocks in the Eastern Panhandle is tied to George Washington’s secret agent mission involving Sgt. Maj. John Champe and Benedict Arnold.

Supreme Court Watch: The U.S. Supreme Court is set to issue major rulings this week that could reshape presidential power, birthright citizenship, election rules, and transgender athletes—big national decisions that will ripple into how people travel, plan, and live. America250 in WV: West Virginia’s America250 mural project is rolling out across all 55 counties, with local artists and tourism grants helping communities put their stories on display. FreedomFest & Downtown Logan: Gov. Morrisey announced a $2.5 million AMLER grant to redevelop Logan’s former Peebles Department Store into a multi-use economic and cultural hub aimed at jobs and tourism. Clendenin Rebuild: A $450,000 streetscape grant will improve sidewalks, lighting, and pedestrian amenities in Clendenin as the town marks 10 years since the 2016 flood. Wildlife & Nature Trips: WV tourism highlights wildlife-watching stops like Cranberry Glades, Summersville Lake, and Seneca Rocks—perfect for summer hikes and slow, scenic drives. Firefly Forecast: Warm, humid weather is setting up a strong firefly season, with several top viewing areas across the state. Travel Safety: A heat dome threat could push West Virginia toward dangerous 90s to near-100s around July 4, so plan outdoor time early and stay hydrated. Family-Friendly Local News: A Moving Wall Vietnam Veterans Memorial replica is visiting St. Albans through Monday, offering a free stop for remembrance and history.

Tourism & Summer Travel: With July 4th trips looming, West Virginia is being pitched as a cooler escape—higher elevations, shaded forests, and cold mountain streams can make the air feel dramatically different than the lowlands. Weather Watch: A heat dome could push parts of the region above 100°F, raising risks when nights stay warm; meanwhile, flash flooding in Kentucky has triggered emergencies and evacuations, a reminder to plan routes carefully. Family Fun & Local Culture: Gov. Morrisey announced a $2.5M AMLER grant to redevelop downtown Logan’s former Peebles Department Store into a multi-use economic and cultural hub, plus a $450,000 streetscape grant for Clendenin’s Main Street to improve sidewalks, lighting, and pedestrian safety. Outdoors & Nature: Fireflies are expected to peak soon, and West Virginia’s forests and darker skies are highlighted as prime viewing spots. Community Spotlight: Berkeley Springs visitors keep asking “Where’s Bath?”—a quirky reminder that the town’s official name is Bath, even as tourism branding uses Berkeley Springs. Sports: Frankfort pitcher Lanson Orndorf won the 2026 Lowery Award as the state’s top high school baseball player. Travel Safety (Pets): After a fatal I-64 crash in Kanawha County, an Iowa dog named Hennessy is set to be reunited with her family.

Fourth of July travel heat warning: A growing heat dome could push West Virginia toward dangerous conditions ahead of July 4, with highs near or above 100 in parts of the region and especially risky warm nights for anyone outdoors or without reliable cooling. Summer planning costs: A new report breaks down how pricey summer care can be for families, with many parents juggling camps, childcare, and schedules that often cost thousands per kid. Cooler getaway idea: One travel guide argues West Virginia is a top East Coast escape from Fourth-of-July heat thanks to elevation, shaded forests, and cold mountain streams. Family-friendly local stops: WVU Jackson’s Mill in Weston is hosting “Public Archaeology Day,” a hands-on dig experience for visitors (with a rain date). Community tourism & history: Harpers Ferry’s Historic Landmarks Commission is urging state commerce officials to address deterioration at the former Hill Top House site and stalled hotel plans. Animal travel story: After a fatal I-64 crash in Kanawha County, an Iowa dog named Hennessy is set to reunite with her family, with plans to bring her back to Iowa. State agriculture spotlight: The West Virginia Agriculture and Forestry Hall of Fame announced six new inductees, with a July 11 banquet at Jackson’s Mill.

America 250 / National Mall: The Great American State Fair kicked off for the U.S. 250th birthday, but early visitors reported power outages, melting ice cream, and uneven ride operations, with some states and territories skipping participation. Road-Trip Fuel Watch: AAA says gas prices are easing nationally and in the region, with the national average down for the third straight week as summer travel ramps up. Adventure & Outdoors: A new story spotlights how the New River became the route for one of the most famous true adventures of the 1700s—great inspiration for hikers and rafters planning a WV getaway. Family Fun & Local Culture: WVU Jackson’s Mill is hosting Public Archaeology Day, inviting visitors to dig into local history and fossils during a weekend event. Conservation & Land: A Dorchester County land deal is highlighted for preserving 1,643 acres as Old Beech Hill State Forest—another reminder of how protected forests shape tourism and outdoor access. Community Events: The Mountain State Forest Festival announced Woodly the Elf as its official mascot, chosen through a Randolph County student poster contest. Sports Spotlight: Frankfort’s Lanson Orndorf was named the 2026 Lowery Award winner, capping a championship baseball run.

WVU Sports & Travel Buzz: Morgantown’s “Mountaineer Nation” is riding high after WVU’s historic College World Series run, with fans packing Kendrick Family Ballpark and helping drive major NCAA events across campus. America 250 on the Ground: Charleston is gearing up for the America250 Capitol City Celebration, including the America 250 Wheel’s July 2 opening night (rain-delayed but on track) and nightly 3D projections. Family-Friendly Independence Day Plans: AAA expects busy roads for July 4, and West Virginia communities are already rolling out fireworks, parades, and concerts—plus Moundsville’s July 3 concert and July 4 fun run/parade. Outdoor Adventure & Conservation: An Ohio-based land conservancy is racing to preserve nearly 2,770 acres of forest near New River Gorge, with an auction set for June 30. Community & Local Tourism: Morgantown’s Spencer and Kuehn Fine Jewelry launched “Packages of Hope” to help cancer patients with travel costs, while a new “Camping for Canines” fundraiser turns Kendrick Family Ballpark into a tent-based charity event. Road Trip Reality Check: Expect overnight detours as the I-68 West to I-79 South interchange closes June 29–30 for concrete work. Heritage Tourism: Portsmouth will host a dedication ceremony tied to James M. Ashley’s Underground Railroad legacy, expanding the Appalachian Freedom Heritage Tour. Wildlife & Health Watch: Tick bites are sending more people to emergency rooms, a sign to plan smarter for summer hikes and outdoor time.

America 250 Weekend in West Virginia: The America 250 Wheel is being assembled at the Capitol Complex in Charleston, with a 230-foot ride, 45 president-themed gondolas, and views up to 14 miles—plus live music and a light show as the July 2-5 celebration nears. Local Festivities: Moundsville is gearing up for July 4 with a July 3 concert at the Strand Theatre, a July 4 fun run/walk, and a downtown parade. Community Arts: Barbour County’s Belington unveiled the “Cerulean Sky” America 250 mural during West Virginia Day, and Harrisville’s new America 250 mural on Main Street is spotlighting Ritchie County history and nature. Outdoor & Adventure: A new piece makes the case for West Virginia as the East’s top whitewater rafting pick, from New River easy floats to Gauley River rapids. Weekend Plans: Here’s what’s happening June 26-28 across the Kanawha Valley, including free levee music and Clendenin Summerfest events. Family-Friendly Fundraiser: Morgantown’s “Camping for Canines” returns to raise money for a new Animal Friends shelter. Weather Watch: The National Weather Service confirmed an EF1 tornado in Barbour County with 110 mph winds.

Roadside & Weekend Travel: VDOT’s weekly traffic alert flags upcoming Interstate 81 bridge work and lane closures in Smyth County, plus nighttime shifts and flagger delays—check 511 before you head out. Local Events & Tourism: Harrisville’s America250 mural on Main Street (funded via a $5,000 tourism grant) is rolling out as a new downtown photo stop, with the design telling Ritchie County’s history from rail trail roots to today’s nature and recreation. Family-Friendly Fun: Charleston’s Capitol Complex is getting a 230-foot America250 Wheel, with 45 gondolas and views up to 10–14 miles—built for families during the weeklong America250 kickoff. Outdoor & Safety Watch: The National Weather Service confirmed an EF1 tornado in Barbour County near Richman Road (110 mph winds), reminding visitors and locals to stay weather-aware around Tygart Lake State Park. Wildlife & Nature: West Virginia’s wild turkey recovery continues—hunters harvested 12,006 bearded birds in the 2026 spring gobbler season, up 12.3% year over year.

Outdoor & Wildlife: West Virginia’s wild turkey comeback is still going strong, with hunters harvesting 12,006 bearded turkeys in the 2026 spring gobbler season—up 12.3% from last year—showing healthy populations across the state. Health on the Road: WVU Medicine’s mobile lung cancer screening unit, LUCAS, is scheduled to stop in Lewis and Upshur counties in mid-July, offering low-dose CT scans with options for insured patients and grant-funded screenings for eligible uninsured West Virginians. Tourism Spotlight: Wheeling is leaning hard into its Ohio River setting, walkable historic attractions, and venues like Waterfront Hall and Oglebay Resort to keep visitors coming back. Local Growth & Industry: In Warwood, a company official says the former Centre Foundry site will be used to build data-center industry modules—not a giant data center—aiming to address community concerns. Community & Safety: Gov. Morrisey declared a state of emergency for Boone, Logan, and Raleigh counties after severe storms, flash flooding, and landslides; crews are repairing washouts on James Branch Road. Travel-Friendly Health Reminder: A new national report says Lyme disease risk is spreading into more states, with tick-bite emergency visits rising—worth keeping in mind for summer hikes and camping.