West Virginia Pioneer

The Pioneer Network consists of eight counties (Braxton, Calhoun, Clay, Gilmer, Nicholas, Roane, Webster and Wirt), located in central West Virginia. These counties are home to 16 municipalities and 86,339 people. This region of Appalachia consists of some of the state’s most rural areas and beautiful geographical features such as Summersville Lake and the Elk River Trail system.

Historically, the region is known for the strength and ingenuity of its people, thriving energy and timber communities and robust downtown neighborhoods. Unfortunately, due to the steady decline in coal production these eight counties have experienced declining population, deteriorating downtowns and job reduction. Aging infrastructure, dilapidated buildings and blight exacerbate these challenges.

Glenville State University has gathered community stakeholders across the region to leverage the power of partnerships and collaboration to create solutions. As this network moved through its formation, three priority areas were identified: Health & Wellness, Economic Development and Workforce Development. Through the Pioneer Community Network, the included communities hope to capitalize on the state’s growing tourism industry and expand local recreation economies.