Mayor Williams Presents check to CoalField Development Corp. for Job Training and Economic Development Programs.

Coalfield's WestEdge Factory and Future Diamond Back facility will "transform" the community.

Mayor Steve Williams presented a $1,121,000 check to Coalfield Development Corporation on Thursda,y Aug. 18th to support job training and economic development programs in Westmoreland. 

"The funding that the City of Huntington has received from the American Rescue Plan Act will transform our community for the next 50 years," Williams said. "Our focus is to allocate ARPA funding for projects that enhance infrastructure, economic development, or job creation. Coalfield Development is a proven enterprise that will create a substantial number of new jobs and investment in our community as a result of this funding." 

Coalfield Supports New businesses and New Development

Programs out of WestEdge Factory include comprehensive job training and construction, deconstruction, apparel printing, woodworking, sustainable industries, regenerate agriculture and supply chain and logistic improvements. 

Coalfield programs will support the development of new, small businesses in emerging sectors that are key to Huntington's vitality - creating jobs based in arts and culture; manufacturing; transportation and logistics; and construction, according to a COH press release. 

Dennison says the new investment will cause a "positive ripple effect" throughout Huntington

"Mayor Williams' support for the WestEdge Factory has been unceasing, and we deeply appreciate it," said Brandon Dennison, chief executive officer for Coalfield Development. "From earliest days of this project, when all we had was a vacant, dilapidated building and a vision for its renewal, the mayor believed in us and committed to do all he could to see our vision become a reality."

Dennison told the crowd that Mayor Wlliams' challenged him to take his biggest dream, and dream even bigger, and "that's what's happening here today," he said. 

A Hub of Creativity

Today, West Edge has become a hub for the economic, workforce, and artistic development. Dennison said it has attracted more than $12 million in new investment to Huntington. Since its creation in 2010, Coalfield has trained 1,500 people in new economic sectors, created more than 600 jobs, and bought $35 million in new investments in the region. 

Make Way for Success

Keep an eye on WestEdge as this award will result in new investments, job developments and training, climate-resilient technologies, and community-held events! Visit Coalfied's website to get a complete look at what they offer and their success in the community.