Harrison County Seeks Public Input on Plan for Future Growth
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. — Harrison County residents are being asked to help shape the county’s long-term priorities as officials collect public input for an updated Comprehensive Plan.
The plan will serve as a guide for future decisions involving land use, housing, transportation, economic development, infrastructure, recreation and quality of life throughout Harrison County.
The Harrison County Planning Department and Planning Commission are seeking input from residents, businesses, municipal officials and other community stakeholders as they identify the needs and priorities that should guide the county in the years ahead.
Residents can complete the Harrison County Comprehensive Plan Community Survey here.
The survey asks the public to share its views on land use, housing, transportation, economic development and quality of life. Harrison County is promoting the survey through the County Commission’s official website as part of the public participation process.
A comprehensive plan does not immediately approve a development, construction project or infrastructure investment. Instead, it creates a broader framework that county officials can consider when evaluating growth, development proposals and future public needs.
The process could influence discussions involving housing availability, commercial and industrial development, water and sewer extensions, roads, broadband service, abandoned and deteriorating properties, recreation and transportation.
It also provides an opportunity for residents of smaller municipalities and unincorporated communities to identify needs that may differ from those facing the county’s larger population centers.
Under West Virginia law, the Planning Commission is responsible for preparing the comprehensive plan and recommending it to the appropriate governing body. The Harrison County Commission will ultimately consider the proposed plan and may adopt, reject or amend it.
State law also requires public participation throughout the process. Public hearings must be held before the Planning Commission submits its recommendation and before the governing body acts on the proposed plan.
The survey is an early opportunity for Harrison County residents to participate before the county’s goals, recommendations and implementation strategies are finalized.
The Harrison County Comprehensive Plan Community Survey can be completed here.
Additional information about county planning activities is available through the Harrison County Planning Department.
Questions can be directed to the Planning Department at 304-624-8690 or planning@harrisoncountywv.gov. The department is located at 229 S. Third Street, second floor, in Clarksburg.
