Photo by: Joselyn King
WHEELING — Downtown Wheeling’s streetscape initiative is nearing completion, and Mayor Denny Magruder emphasized that the improvements go beyond visual appeal.
“New sidewalks, updated lighting, and redesigned crosswalks aren’t merely cosmetic upgrades,” Magruder stated. “They represent an open invitation for residents to engage more deeply with their community.”
He described the project as one of the most visible signals that the city is actively shaping its future. Economic progress, he noted, isn’t limited to constructing buildings—it’s equally about enhancing residents’ everyday experiences and overall well-being.
“Wheeling has shown that ambition isn’t reserved for large metropolitan areas,” he added.
Magruder delivered these remarks during the Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 “Economic Drivers Brunch,” held at Waterfront Hall on Thursday.
This year’s “Economic Driver Award” recipients were Dan Milleson, owner of Waterfront Hall, and Pastor Chris Figaretti of Newbridge Church. Figaretti led the transformation of the former Children’s Museum of the Ohio Valley building at 1000 Main Street into the Newbridge Academy For Kids, a childcare facility, along with the NB Cafe & Creamery.
The mayor highlighted a renewed sense of energy in the city, noting that people are beginning to talk about Wheeling with renewed interest.
“There’s a spark in Wheeling right now—one I’ve seen firsthand—and it’s spreading fast,” he said. “This isn’t just optimism; it’s real momentum that’s becoming increasingly evident across the city every day.”
He pointed to developments such as Waterfront Hall, the Newbridge properties, The Doris Apartments, and the ongoing construction of the DiCarlo condominiums as key contributors to this revitalization.
According to Magruder, these ventures are fostering new gathering spaces and enriching the cultural landscape, which in turn draws more visitors to downtown. This increased foot traffic benefits existing restaurants and retail businesses, he explained.
The revitalization is also extending into neighborhoods like Woodsdale and Elm Grove, where additional construction and investment are underway.
Looking ahead, Magruder mentioned the upcoming WVU Cancer Institute St. Joseph Regional Cancer Complex in downtown Wheeling. He also alluded to other initiatives in early planning stages, though details remain under wraps.
“People are starting to see that Wheeling isn’t just affordable—it’s a place where smart investments can take root,” Magruder said. “Our community offers numerous opportunities for those willing to get involved.”
A panel discussion featured Milleson, Figaretti, and Nathan Butts, Executive Director of Project BEST. Figaretti highlighted the role of historic rehabilitation tax credits in enabling the church’s redevelopment project, noting they covered a significant portion of the costs. Milleson added that such incentives can offset nearly half of a renovation’s total expenses.
Butts encouraged prospective newcomers to consider Wheeling’s strengths—its safety, stability, and distinct seasonal climate. He also expressed hope that more current residents would choose to remain in the city.
“The more people who stay, the stronger our community becomes,” he told the audience.
— news from theintelligencer.net
— News Original —
Wheeling Chamber Presents ‘Economic Driver’ Awards
photo by: Joselyn King n nWHEELING — The streetscape project in downtown Wheeling is in its final stages, and the result is about more than just flowers, trees and good looks, according to Mayor Denny Magruder. n n“New sidewalks, new lighting, new crosswalks, these aren’t just aesthetic changes,” he said. “They are invitations for residents to continue to take part in their city. n n“It is one of the most visible signs that Wheeling is building for the future. Economic development isn’t just about buildings. It’s about people. It’s about quality of life. n n“Wheeling has proven you don’t have to be a big city to think big.” n nMagruder provided the keynote address as the Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 “Economic Drivers Brunch” Thursday at Waterfront Hall. n nDan Milleson, owner of Waterfront Hall, was one of two recipients of this year’s “Economic Driver Award” presented by the chamber. n nThe other was Pastor Chris Figaretti of Newbridge Church, which has renovated the former Children’s Museum of the Ohio Valley building at 1000 Main Street into the Newbridge Academy For Kids daycare center and the NB Cafe & Creamery. n nMagruder told those present there is an energy apparent in Wheeling, and that people “are talking about Wheeling again.” n n“I can tell you first-hand, there’s a spark in Wheeling right now, and it’s spreading quickly,” he said. “It’s not just wishful thinking. It’s momentum, and it’s tangible and visible and it’s growing throughout our city each day. n n“Wheeling’s downtown is coming alive again.” n nThe cited the development of Waterfront Hall, the Newbridge properties, and The Doris Apartments and the current construction of the DiCarlo condominium complex. n nThe businesses are creating new venues and a vibrant culture scene, according to Magruder. This attracts people to the downtown, and increases traffic to existing restaurants and businesses, he said n nThe activity is also spilling out into other areas of Wheeling such as Woodsdale and Elm Grove, where construction and development are happening, Magruder continued. n nThe future includes the new WVU Cancer Institute St. Joseph Regional Cancer Complex in the downtown, and other projects are “in the pimple stages.” There is potential for more businesses coming to Wheeling, but none of this can be announced yet, Magruder added. n n“People are starting to realize Wheeling isn’t just affordable. It’s investible,” Magruder said. “There are plenty of investment opportunities in our community.” n nA panel discussion during the event included participants Milleson, Figaretti and Project BEST Executive Director Nathan Butts. n nFigaretti spoke of the importance of historic rehabilitation tax credits, and how these made it possible for the church to invest in its building located at 1000 Main St. Milleson added these bonds can often provide the needed money “to cover 45% of the process.” n nButts said he would suggest to those not knowing about Wheeling but considering a move here that they look at the attributes of the city. It is safe, secure and has four seasons, he explained.. n nButts also said he hopes more people who already live here will want to stay here. n n“The more folks stick around, the better we will be,” he told those present.