Companies have already expressed interest in the former Wheeling-Corrugating plant in Beech Bottom. Since the Business Development Corporation of the Northern Panhandle announced its purchase last week, it is figuring out a plan of attack for redeveloping Brooke County.

BDC officials said the 616-acre site has a lot of potential for any industry that wants to set up shop. It's a unique situation in which they said about half the battle is over in terms of finding a building and equipment that's ready to be used.

"Strong foundation, all the utilities are here. We also have great access from our roads, roads to handle road cargo, as well as the Ohio River here for river cargo," explained BDC executive director Pat Ford. "Just over the past week, we've received a number of inquiries from people who are both interested in leasing space in the building (and) also the real estate, as well as potentially buying some of the real estate from us."

Hackman Capital teamed with the BDC to figure out what to do with the machines inside, said Marvin Six, assistant executive director of BDC.

"They're going to handle and use the equipment in any way they choose. It could be put back into use or it could be used outside the site (or) moved onto another plant," said Six.

The water treatment facility on the site will catch the attention of oil-and-gas-related companies, but there's much to do before officials settle down with prospective buyers or leasers, Ford said.

"The permits with the DEP (need to be) transferred over in our name. We have to go through all the necessary steps to get all the legal material taken care of," said Six.

BDC officials said they want to maximize use of the property and keep the community involved throughout the process. Ford said they reached out to environmental agencies before striking a deal and discovered they have a site that's move-in ready. Currently, they are looking at preserving the building and equipment inside during the winter season, officials said.