PARKERSBURG, WV (December 17, 2008) – Greater Parkersburg Convention & Visitors Bureau President Steve Nicely announced the launch of a new outdoor board campaign this week designed to promote area attractions and welcome travelers to the region.

“This is a project we have considered in the past and are excited to bring to life in 2009,” Nicely said. “One key recommendation from our 2005 research study was the establishment of gateway signage on I-77 and US 50, and with an average of 11,500 people per day viewing the board southbound on I-77, it made sense for our first sign to be placed somewhere along this route.”  

The first outdoor board is currently in place along I-77, just south of the Williamstown exit, with subsequent boards being sought in the Minerals Wells area.

The new board highlights Fenton Art Glass. Boards will rotate seasonally with every quarter and will feature additional key attractions or activities in the region. Future boards will include Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and the Oil & Gas Museum.    

“The primary purpose of the boards is to welcome travelers and offer a sense of arrival to Greater Parkersburg,” Nicely said. “We also hope that the boards will evoke a sense of pride with locals as they are reminded of the many wonderful things there are to enjoy right in their own back yard.”

“In today’s competitive travel conditions, it is important to get the maximum exposure for our local attractions,” Wood County Commissioner Rick Modesitt said. “ Wood County has a substantial number of interesting attractions and by having the new boards along the interstate highway, we will expose our hidden treasures to thousands of people daily, and hopefully will peak leisure travelers’ interest to stop and visit the Mid-Ohio Valley.”

“The billboard will be an excellent way to let people know they have arrived in our area and the many attractions that can be enjoyed,” Parkersburg Mayor Robert Newell said.

To learn more about Greater Parkersburg, visit www.GreaterParkersburg.com. 

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