Associated Press Published

W.Va. Governor Announces $250K Grant for Pipeline

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A Preston County natural gas pipeline project that’s expected to create 25 jobs is receiving a $250,000 state grant.

On Thursday, Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin visited the Allegheny Wood Products site in Hazelton to announce the grant.

The money will help extend a natural gas pipeline to the company. It’s expected to help increase lumber production there by 50 percent, from 20 million board feet annually to 30 million board feet.

The additional 25 jobs would increase the plant’s employment by more than 50 percent by the fall.

The gas line should be finished by September.

The extension will let the company replace diesel-powered kilns with natural gas-fueled ones.

The West Virginia Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council grant will go to the Preston County Economic Development Authority.