WHEELING, W.Va. — U.S. Congressman Riley Moore announced $2 million in federal funding Friday to support construction of the Gateway Visitors Center in Wheeling.
The funding is part of more than $27 million in federal investments being distributed across West Virginia. City officials say the money will help transform a vacant downtown property into a tourism-focused facility designed to support economic development.
Project costs for the visitor center are estimated between $13 million and $16 million. Officials say the federal funding completes the financing needed to move the project forward. The project is expected to be put out for bid in March.
Plans for the facility include an elevator providing access between the visitor center, the Ohio River waterfront, and walking trails near the historic Wheeling Suspension Bridge. Officials say the project is expected to enhance tourism and improve public access to the riverfront.
The funding was secured through Moore’s work on the House Appropriations Committee. Officials say additional infrastructure improvements are also being evaluated throughout Ohio County and the Northern Panhandle
