Paden City high school, once the hub of the community, closed its doors at the direction of the Wetzel County BOE in 2025, leaving the legacy of the once thriving building in limbo. However, the PCDA acquired the facility from the board for a mere $10 and immediately began the transformation from high school to business and entertainment.

On Tuesday May 5, the Development Authority held an open house, giving interested citizens and visitors an opportunity to see what’s been accomplished and what’s in store for the future.

Tuesday’s open house provided visitors the opportunity to see what community development is all about. Working in conjunction with city officials, community leaders, and volunteers, the development authority is doing just what their name represents. “Developing.”

There is a lot of work behind the scenes to promote the community and make it a place where people want to come to live, work, and have fun. There are so many things in the works for the Paden City community that it’s hard to keep up with them all.

Just in the past year there has been interest from several businesses who are looking to move to a less crowded community where taxes and utilities are relatively low compared to other areas. All of that is a plus when considering expenses. Paden City has much to offer, a recent push to clean up the community has really made a difference. However much more is needed!

The city is currently replacing sewer lines and water lines to update ones that are outdated, leaking, and have been in service for nearly a hundred years. Work is ongoing to improve the town’s appearance.

Paden City is located about 40 miles south of Wheeling, and 40 miles north of Parkersburg and Marietta, giving residents access to great restaurants and other fine entertainment without having to drive hundreds of miles. Also they have several things right in their backyard that should attract people who are looking for a more laid back and quiet way of life.

The county fairs and festivals in both Wetzel and Tyler counties provide some big time entertainment with the annual Back Home Music Festival, and the RegattaFest New Martinsville are two of the finest events.

The Tyler County Speedway is another big time operation that draws huge crowds throughout the racing season normally running from April through September. Don’t forget about the annual Paden City Labor Day Celebration which hosts the state’s largest Labor Day Parade each year and has for the past 75 years or more.

The Development Authority has plenty of space available for tenants of nearly every size. Talk is underway for a possible youth center for both counties to enjoy. If it goes through it will be a huge lift for kids and adults, providing activities that children can enjoy in a safe and secure environment. Stay tuned for this one; it could be a life changer for the entire area.

Residents of the community have been asked by the city to keep things cleaned up, all in an effort to make the town more attractive and entice visitors to consider moving to town.

Things can turn around quickly if the opportunity presents itself and with dedicated individuals working towards that goal it’s possible to see a movement in that direction in the near future.