Discussions between the Tyler County Development Authority and Dana Transport are proceeding at a moderate pace.

Meeting April 17, Eric Peters, TCDA director, informed the organization of a recent meeting with Dana Transport where the company was seeking information on an addition to the existing Ben’s Run railspur to allow the company to expand its operations to railcars.

The development authority and Dana Transport have been in negotiations since October 2007 regarding the purchase of nearly five acres in the Ben’s Run Industrial Park to expand its operations. The first obstacle was an industrial road connecting state Route 2 to the proposed site.

Peters has been meeting with Division of Highway officials who will provide up to $400,000 for the access road. Monies for projects will be awarded June 1.

Currently Dana Transport utilizes an existing facility for office space, but wishes to expand, adding to its already existing 47 terminals in the United States.

The company has also promised a 10-percent down payment in good faith of the project.

Peters also advised the TCDA they may be obligated to absorb the cost of providing utilities to the site, but said there is money available if the project’s cost goes above and beyond what can be provided.

He thanks Delegate Roger Romine who helped secure the money for the contingency fund.

He also told the group the Sistersville Walking Trail bridge had been delivered and he expects installation shortly.

“There is a contractor interested,” Peters said. “We do have money in grant funds for a match if needed.”

Prior to the TCDA meeting, the Tyler County Planning Commission met to discuss the recent W.Va. 2-I 68 Authority held in New Martinsville. Peters reported a DOH representative had noted completion of the four-lane on W.Va. 2 between Consolidated Coal and Washington Lands should be done by June or July.

He did say Gov. Joe Manchin has indicated he would like to see the authority’s scope modified as the W.Va. 2-I-68 organization is the only one in the state to represent two roadways. The governor also expressed interest in continued discussions in the future.