KINGWOOD – An AML Economic Development Grant will provide funding for a development project in Hazelton, according to Robbie Baylor, Executive Director of the Preston County Economic Development Authority (PCEDA).
Baylor said the project will include the purchase of a portion of a formerly mined site and adjoining property (Former TAZ Hardwoods site) consisting of 41.823 acres and an approximately 12,000 square foot building.
According to a news release from Governor Jim Justice and Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Austin Caperton, the project is part of a $50.65 million abandoned mine land grant that has been awarded to 15 projects. Total AML PILOT grants funds awarded for the Hazelton project was $2,208,102.
Baylor said once the environmental work is completed and approved then they can begin the project. She said this will include building rehabilitation, sanitary sewer and natural gas extensions to the site.
“We hope to get the gas and sewer work completed before the weather becomes bad,” Baylor said.
She said the site will be used for future industrial development on the parcel located adjacent to I-68 in Hazelton. The Preston County Economic Development Authority, a public entity, will be the owner and developer of the property.
“Long-term benefits from the project will include job creation and capital investment in the county and the state on a abandoned mine lands site,” Baylor said. “Once this site is fully developed, it will be attractive to new industry.”
All of the work is expected to be completed within 18 months, according to Baylor.
