PARKERSBURG, WV – The completion of the new Blennerhassett Bridge across the Ohio River, linking Ohio and West Virginia via US Route 50, is expected to increase traffic and visitors to the region.
“Now that the bridge is open to traffic we anticipate a significant increase in traffic flow and accessibility to the area, which we hope means an increase in visitors,” Greater Parkersburg CVB President Steve Nicely said.
Nicely indicated that with the reduction of through traffic in downtown Parkersburg, it should make the city more pedestrian friendly and less congested.
“As Governor Joe Manchin said during the bridge’s opening ceremonies, the new corridor will open up southeastern Ohio and Greater Parkersburg, West Virginia to commerce and tourism,” Nicely said.
There are challenges and opportunities with the opening of the new bridge, Nicely indicated.
“We have to let visitors know that the bridge is open and that it is now much easier to get to and through the Greater Parkersburg area,” he said. “There are a number of new attractions near or just off of Route 50 that people can get to quicker. It’s our job to help travelers realize that. We are currently updating our regional and downtown padded maps used by attractions and hotels, as well as our 2009 visitors guide and web site information.”
Nicely also noted that increased highway signage along the new corridor as people enter the state will also increase the awareness of what shopping, dining, or attractions lie “just around the next bend”.
To learn more about what there is to see and do in Greater Parkersburg visit, www.GreaterParkersburg.com
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Posted on: July 5, 2008
