photo by: Joselyn King

Wheeling Mayor Denny Magruder provides the keynote speech during the 2025 “Economic Driver Brunch” on Thursday at Waterfront Hall.

WHEELING — The streetscape project in downtown Wheeling is in its final stages, and the result is about more than just flowers, trees and good looks, according to Mayor Denny Magruder.

“New sidewalks, new lighting, new crosswalks, these aren’t just aesthetic changes,” he said. “They are invitations for residents to continue to take part in their city.

“It is one of the most visible signs that Wheeling is building for the future. Economic development isn’t just about buildings. It’s about people. It’s about quality of life.

“Wheeling has proven you don’t have to be a big city to think big.”

Magruder provided the keynote address as the Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 “Economic Drivers Brunch” Thursday at Waterfront Hall.

Dan Milleson, owner of Waterfront Hall, was one of two recipients of this year’s “Economic Driver Award” presented by the chamber.

The other was Pastor Chris Figaretti of Newbridge Church, which has renovated the former Children’s Museum of the Ohio Valley building at 1000 Main Street into the Newbridge Academy For Kids daycare center and the NB Cafe & Creamery.

Magruder told those present there is an energy apparent in Wheeling, and that people “are talking about Wheeling again.”

“I can tell you first-hand, there’s a spark in Wheeling right now, and it’s spreading quickly,” he said. “It’s not just wishful thinking. It’s momentum, and it’s tangible and visible and it’s growing throughout our city each day.

“Wheeling’s downtown is coming alive again.”

The cited the development of Waterfront Hall, the Newbridge properties, and The Doris Apartments and the current construction of the DiCarlo condominium complex.

The businesses are creating new venues and a vibrant culture scene, according to Magruder. This attracts people to the downtown, and increases traffic to existing restaurants and businesses, he said

The activity is also spilling out into other areas of Wheeling such as Woodsdale and Elm Grove, where construction and development are happening, Magruder continued.

The future includes the new WVU Cancer Institute St. Joseph Regional Cancer Complex in the downtown, and other projects are “in the pimple stages.” There is potential for more businesses coming to Wheeling, but none of this can be announced yet, Magruder added.

“People are starting to realize Wheeling isn’t just affordable. It’s investible,” Magruder said. “There are plenty of investment opportunities in our community.”

A panel discussion during the event included participants Milleson, Figaretti and Project BEST Executive Director Nathan Butts.

Figaretti spoke of the importance of historic rehabilitation tax credits, and how these made it possible for the church to invest in its building located at 1000 Main St. Milleson added these bonds can often provide the needed money “to cover 45% of the process.”

Butts said he would suggest to those not knowing about Wheeling but considering a move here that they look at the attributes of the city. It is safe, secure and has four seasons, he explained..

Butts also said he hopes more people who already live here will want to stay here.

“The more folks stick around, the better we will be,” he told those present.