AGP Executive Report

Bridge Planning: Residents in Follansbee are weighing options for replacing the Market Street Bridge, with a second public workshop today (4–7 p.m.) in Steubenville as WVDOТ and an environmental-study team review alternatives. Public Safety: West Virginia’s Governor’s Highway Safety Program honored 100+ agencies and officers for DUI, speed, distracted driving, seat belt enforcement, and eCitation use—highlighting that crashes are “conscious choices” and citing 1,873 DUI arrests statewide in 2025. Education Wins: Two Monongalia County students—Emily Nguyen and Maxwell Chen—were named 2026 National Merit Scholars, joining nine other WV honorees. WVU Momentum: A $1M gift to WVU’s Chambers College expands Data Driven WV, funding student work connecting businesses, nonprofits, and government on real community problems. Health Care Pressure: A JAMA study finds abortion bans reduce miscarriage treatment options, pushing more care toward less effective approaches. Tech & Power: New research warns data centers and crypto mining could drive power costs up to 57% in some areas by 2030.

NSF Funding Boost: NSF’s Regional Innovation Engines are lining up an extra $45M over the next three years for eight regions, with annual funding set to double in year three—aimed at expanding emerging tech clusters. Cleanup Costs: Bayer agreed to pay at least $133M to settle PCB contamination claims in Michigan and Rhode Island, continuing a broader wave of state settlements. Power Bills: Mon Power and Potomac Edison asked the WV Public Service Commission to pick between two rate-increase paths, including an “inflation and investment” option tied to reliability and future infrastructure. Workplace Safety: OSHA has just six federal inspectors covering about 60,000 WV workplaces—raising alarms after a deadly chemical incident showed dangerous sites may go uninspected for years. Health & Care: CMS data spotlighted low nursing-home ratings in Brooke and Sistersville, while a new study links abortion bans to reduced miscarriage medication care in states with restrictions. Broadband & Data Centers: West Virginia’s connectivity gap remains a drag on work and learning, even as state leaders discuss major data-center plans like Bedington. Community Tech: Fiber Broadband Association pushes a framework for moving cable networks toward fiber-to-the-home upgrades.

Childcare Crunch: Save the Children says an $8 million grant will expand West Virginia’s rural child care and early education workforce, where some counties have just one provider—or none—leaving parents stuck on long wait lists. WVU Commencement: WVU wrapped Spring Commencement Weekend with more than 3,600 graduates across nine ceremonies, capped by the familiar “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” Workplace Safety Pressure: A new look at OSHA in West Virginia highlights how few inspectors cover tens of thousands of workplaces, raising alarms after recent serious incidents. Data Center Debate: In the Eastern Panhandle, state and business leaders discussed the proposed Bedington data center campus—600 megawatts and big power and water questions included. Tech & Space Spotlight: West Virginia’s Green Bank Telescope tracked Artemis 2’s Orion around the moon, turning “pixels” into a real-time view of the mission. Scam Watch: The WV AG is warning residents about rising Medicare, phishing, robocall, DMV text, and fake court scams.

OSHA Under Pressure: A new look at West Virginia workplace safety highlights a staffing crunch—OSHA has just 6 inspectors covering about 60,000 workplaces—raising the stakes for workers after recent fatal incidents at high-risk facilities. Data Center Debate: In the Eastern Panhandle, state and developers are hashing out the future of data centers, including the proposed Bedington campus, with power, water use, and community impact front and center. Space Tech Spotlight: West Virginia’s Green Bank Telescope helped track Artemis 2’s Orion around the moon, producing a striking “four people in those pixels” view from more than 200,000 miles away. Scam Alerts: The WV AG is warning residents about the latest fraud tactics—Medicare scams, phishing, robocalls, DMV text scams, and fake court notices—pushing people to check the state’s consumer protection resources. Education & Work: Study abroad funding is back in Congress, while SNAP work rules are already affecting families locally, and housing policy experts keep pointing to building more homes as the real fix.

Election Wrap: West Virginia’s primary is basically done, with counties now canvassing results before official certification next week; Tuesday’s turnout landed at 20.91% (250,755 ballots of 1,198,933 registered), with Northern Panhandle participation ranging from 17.38% in Brooke to 23.69% in Hancock. Memorial Day: South Hills communities are lining up wreath-lays and services for May 25 to honor fallen service members. Data Centers Debate: A “Cracking the Code” discussion and local pushback keep spotlighting West Virginia’s data-center future—Bedington’s proposed campus is framed as jobs and national-security infrastructure, while critics warn about power, water, and community impacts. Health Policy: The state and nation keep moving on care access—Kentucky preschool enrollment is down despite quality standards, and Medicare is set to expand free CBD access for some patients. Local Tech/Research: Marshall researchers report tiny gut particles may help drive inflammation and aging-related disease.

Scam Alert: West Virginia AG warns residents about a fresh wave of fraud, flagging Medicare impersonation, computer phishing, robocalls, DMV text scams, and fake court notices—urging people to check the AG’s Consumer Protection site before they click or pay. Data Centers & Power: In the Eastern Panhandle, state and developers met to talk the future of data centers, including the proposed Bedington campus, with the big questions centered on power, water use, and community impact. Rural Health Funding: Gov. Morrisey announced the first round of Rural Health Transformation Program money—$62M+—aimed at recruiting and retaining providers, expanding telehealth, and backing rural health tech. WVU Under Scrutiny: A former WVU professor, Jeanette Garcia, faces felony drug-conspiracy charges tied to alleged prescription drug exchanges with students. Commencement Buzz: WVU kicked off spring commencement weekend with more than 600 graduates walking the stage Friday, including law and multiple health sciences programs. Health Research: Marshall University researchers report gut-derived tiny particles may help drive inflammation and aging-related chronic disease.

WVU Commencement Kickoff: WVU’s 2026 Spring Commencement Weekend is underway, with more than 600 graduates walking the podium Friday at the WVU Coliseum and the Flying WV water tower lighting ceremony wrapping up the university’s “Welcome Home Tour.” Health & Science: Marshall University researchers report tiny gut particles linked to aging—when transferred between young and older animals, they appear to shift inflammation and metabolism. Policy Watch: The Trump administration is moving Medicare toward mainstream CBD access for some patients, while other federal actions continue to reshape healthcare rules nationwide. Higher Ed & Careers: WVU also highlighted new student wins, including a junior earning a national Udall Scholarship, plus two Greenbrier East grads receiving medical degrees from WVSOM. Local Crime: A former WVU professor faces felony drug charges tied to alleged prescription drug dealings involving students. Sports/Community: Holden is headed to Wheeling University, and West Virginia’s learning recovery rankings keep trending up after the pandemic.

Rural Health Funding: Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced $62M in opportunities through West Virginia’s Rural Health Transformation Program, aiming to recruit, train, and retain healthcare workers while expanding telehealth and rural provider support. Education Recovery: New national scorecard data says West Virginia is rebounding after COVID—WV ranked 6th in math recovery and 8th in reading recovery, with Harrison County highlighted for strong math growth. School Levy Win: Morgan County Schools thanked voters after a $5.56M levy renewal passed with 58% support, covering salaries, safety, and programs like special education. Power for AI: Battery storage is gaining traction as data centers look to cut diesel backup use, with batteries positioned to smooth fast AI-driven power swings. Telehealth Abortion Fight: A Supreme Court move keeps telehealth abortion access alive while legal challenges continue. Local Tech/Identity: ROC added to IBIA, signaling more push for biometric identity systems in government and enterprise.

Campus & Community Wins: West Virginia Northern Community College held its 2026 commencement at WesBanco Arena, honoring 320 graduates (plus 335 certificates and degrees) with Dallas Cowboys veteran C.J. Goodwin urging students to “overcome adversity” and seize opportunities. Local Governance: Monongalia County BOE member Christina Fattore Morgan resigned after voters renewed the excess levy, while incumbents swept reelection. Civic Learning: Law Day at the WV Supreme Court of Appeals spotlighted Elkins students William Eisenbrey and Andrew Ray for top essay placements tied to the rule of law and the First Amendment. Health & Education: WVSOM graduate Scott Wentz earned his DO and plans an emergency medicine residency in Indiana. STEM & Workforce: Logan County’s Hope Pathways program is bringing utilities/energy certifications, internships, and apprenticeships to students at a local CTE center. Tech & Power Watch: A new report flags how AI data centers are pushing power deals “behind the meter,” raising questions about emissions promises.

Manufacturing Momentum: Sandvik and Alpha Metallurgical Resources just announced a $25M West Virginia manufacturing facility—100,000 square feet to make rock bolts and resin capsules—with at least 120 new jobs, aiming to strengthen U.S. mining supply chains. Digital Safety: A new push for online child safety highlights how predators use chat apps and pressure tactics—plus practical steps for kids and parents to reduce risk. Courts & Citizenship: The U.S. Supreme Court is set to weigh Trump’s push to narrow birthright citizenship, a move that could affect millions of people nationwide. Health Watch: Maryland reported 69 deer with chronic wasting disease in 2025, all within its existing management area—proof the problem is spreading locally even without new counties. Policy Fight: A House committee voted to block federal marijuana rescheduling funding, even as the administration moves forward. Cyber & Schools: A separate report warns that social media “news” can spread misinformation fast, especially when people rely on scanner chatter.

Manufacturing Push: Sandvik and Alpha Metallurgical Resources just announced a $25 million joint venture in West Virginia—about a 100,000-square-foot plant making rock bolts and resin capsules—with expectations of at least 120 new jobs. Public Health Gap: A new Appalachian Regional Commission report says “deaths of despair” are down nationwide, but Appalachia still lags with higher overdose, alcohol, and suicide rates. Cybersecurity in Schools: A major Canvas hack is again raising alarms about how districts protect student and teacher data—and what happens when systems get hit. Power & Infrastructure: FirstEnergy’s Mon Power and Potomac Edison are moving forward on a new gas-fired plant near Morgantown, while a new study ranks West Virginia among the worst states for bridge conditions. Tech & Learning: WVU Extension is kicking off open listening sessions to shape statewide needs, and Fairmont’s High Tech Center hosted national teen tech awards.

Manufacturing Push: Gov. Patrick Morrisey says Sandvik and Alpha Metallurgical Resources will build a new 100,000-square-foot West Virginia facility, a $25 million project aimed at making rock bolt and resin capsule products, with at least 120 jobs expected. Drone Security: WVU, the Idaho National Laboratory, and Summit Point Training Facility are teaming up to advance drone and counter-drone work for national security, including large-scale testing airspace. Tech + Health Ops: United Hospital Center in Bridgeport is recognized by Xenex for leading UV disinfection use in Q1 2026, logging 18,027 robot disinfection cycles. Local Fiber Build: GoNetspeed starts construction on a 100% fiber expansion in York, Maine, with early connections targeted for July—another reminder that broadband buildouts are still moving fast. Community + History: The Mine Wars Museum launches community meetings for its “Courage in the Hollers” labor history trail, starting with sessions across Mingo, Logan, Boone, and Kanawha counties.

Cuba vs. Iran priorities: As Trump heads to Beijing, he says Cuba is “asking for help” and he’ll respond through dialogue, but Republican senators are pushing back on any military move—arguing the U.S. should focus on Iran and rely on economic sanctions instead. West Virginia power pressure: In the Mountain State, residents are again sounding the alarm over rising electricity bills, saying lawmakers haven’t delivered meaningful rate relief while policy choices keep supporting growth tied to data centers. Appalachian tech & talent: A new WV student spotlight highlights “Aspirations in Computing” award winners, while Vandalia Health names a new CAO and WVSOM honors its graduating classes. Energy + infrastructure debate: Google’s 15-year solar deal for a Matagorda County project adds fuel to the ongoing data center power fight in Texas. Nature watch: Joro spiders are spreading, but experts say the risk is low—the hype is bigger than the threat.

Additive Manufacturing Spotlight: Project MFG crowned West Virginia University’s ETEC as the inaugural Additive Manufacturing National Champions, with the national event staged at EOS North America and teams competing for $10,000. Foster Care Tech Push: First Lady Melania Trump marked 180 days since the “Fostering the Future” order, touting a new federal fund and a digital platform (FosteringTheFuture.gov) aimed at helping youth leaving foster care find education, housing, and career support. Abortion Pill Court Fight: A 23-state coalition backed Louisiana in a Supreme Court filing to keep mail-order mifepristone blocked, with West Virginia among the signers. Broadband/Utilities Clash: Comcast says Appalachian Power is violating an FCC pole-replacement order, arguing it’s still charging unlawful “unreasonable” fees. Local Science Buzz: WVU’s Physics and Astronomy Demo Day brought hands-on experiments—including liquid-nitrogen ice cream—to the community. Election Day Prep: West Virginia’s May 12 primary is underway with new voting rules, including photo ID requirements. State Finance Watch: A new report from Truth in Accounting says West Virginia ranks highest for financial transparency in audited state reports.

Ohio River Restoration Push: The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District is backing a new federal Ohio River Basin Restoration bill aimed at boosting funding for conservation, recreation, and water quality across the region. Election Watch (WV): West Virginia voters head to the polls Tuesday, with multiple Supreme Court and U.S. Senate nomination races on the ballot, plus new voting rules like photo ID requirements. Cyber & National Security: WVU Cyber is launching a strategic partnership with TWENTY to create an internship pipeline focused on offensive cyber and AI-enabled tech. Energy & Schools: Ohio County Schools say energy upgrades have saved more than $4.5M over six years—while Blackstone is betting $1B on “behind-the-meter” power for AI data centers amid grid strain. Tech in the Classroom: Fairmont’s NCWIT “Aspirations in Computing” awards highlighted local student talent, and St. Albans ran a DUI simulation for students. Housing Buzz: Wall Street Journal/Realtor.com ranked Canton-Massillon among the nation’s top housing markets. Health & Safety: A new study flags rising financial scams targeting older Americans, with government imposter scams most common in WV.

Energy & Climate Reality Check: A new look at past “doom” predictions argues many dire climate-linked energy forecasts didn’t pan out, even as the debate keeps evolving. Public Lands & Hunting: The Interior Department ordered managers to remove “unnecessary” barriers to hunting and fishing at about 76 National Park Service sites, a move that’s already drawing conservation and safety pushback. Health & Regulation: Georgia home-birth demand is rising, but a KFF Health News report says some non-nurse midwives are operating illegally under state rules. West Virginia Science Spotlight: The NSF’s Green Bank Telescope is getting a critical repaint this summer to extend its life and keep it ready for major missions. Tech & Infrastructure: Data centers are still driving most nonresidential construction planning growth, even as other sectors stabilize. Global Security: Iran confirmed deploying Ghadir-class midget submarines in the Strait of Hormuz, raising stakes for shipping and energy. Local Life: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library marks 20 years in West Virginia, continuing its monthly book push for kids.