Though no specific deals have been set, officials in the Northern Panhandle said they anticipate substantial economic growth.

Pat Ford, executive director of the Business Corporation of the Northern Panhandle, said officials are bringing in prospective businesses with virtually no effort. Ford said that's a sign that the area is on the radar for companies and industries.

"Locally, we are actually seeing probably some of the highest prospects in recent months than we've seen in years," Ford said.

Ford, who acts as a liaison between potential buyers and owners of property in the panhandle, said officials in Brooke and Hancock counties narrowed the field of prospects down to manufacturing and back offices.

"Now, what the consultants will do is identify what properties in the Northern Panhandle are best suitable to accommodate these industries," Ford said.

Two sites, each of which will be 50 to 150 acres, are needed. Industrial sites will need access to the Ohio River, railways and roads. As for offices, Ford said those companies would need a "prime location along some of our main transportation corridors."

The Three Springs Drive area in Weirton is getting much attention from prospective businesses, in particular the former Walmart building.

But amid the potential for new growth, Ford said officials will need to incorporation the historic backbone of the area: steel.

"It gives us a leg up to have these core industries to be a part of our diverse economy," Ford said.

Ford said the counties will be getting $1.25 million from the federal government to assist in these developments, but he said economic growth extend beyond the two hopeful sites.

He said Brooke and Hancock officials have been working hand in hand with Jefferson County officials in Ohio to make sure both states are benefiting from new growth.

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