The West Virginia Turnpike is poised to elevate the travel experience for motorists with the imminent grand opening of the newly constructed Beckley Travel Plaza. Located strategically along this vital transportation artery, the Beckley Travel Plaza West Virginia is nearing completion and promises to be a significant upgrade for travelers.
Parkways Authority Executive Director Jeff Miller has indicated that the project is in its final stages. Addressing MetroNews, Miller stated, “We are working on the final touches of a grand opening as we speak and we’re going to be making that announcement real soon.” This announcement signals the near-term availability of the Beckley Travel Plaza West Virginia, eagerly anticipated by both local residents and those passing through.
The construction of the Beckley Travel Plaza West Virginia represents a substantial investment in modernizing the West Virginia Turnpike’s facilities. The project, awarded to Paramount Builders, a St. Albans-based contractor, is part of a larger $122.8 million initiative that includes the Bluestone Travel Plaza, which is slightly behind Beckley in its construction timeline, and the upcoming Morton Travel Plaza in Kanawha County. The demolition of the previous Beckley travel plaza buildings commenced in spring 2023, paving the way for this state-of-the-art facility.
Miller expressed optimism about the Beckley Travel Plaza West Virginia opening in time to serve holiday travelers, stating, “I’m hoping we can capture some Christmas traffic. Beckley is right there. The operator is finishing out the restaurants and putting all of their equipment in there.” This timeline suggests the plaza will be operational very soon, providing timely services for those journeying during peak travel periods.
A recent job fair highlighted the economic impact of the Beckley Travel Plaza West Virginia, with 50 individuals hired to staff the new facility. This influx of jobs underscores the plaza’s role not only as a travel amenity but also as a contributor to local employment.
Furthermore, the Beckley Travel Plaza West Virginia will showcase the artistic heritage of the state. Efforts are underway to stock the Tamarack artists area within the plaza, offering travelers a taste of West Virginia’s crafts and culture. This integration of local artistry adds a unique dimension to the travel stop experience.
Travelers visiting the Beckley Travel Plaza West Virginia will find a diverse range of dining options managed by Areas USA. These include popular fast-food chains such as Wendy’s, Starbucks, and Popeyes, alongside a 24-hour convenience store. For those seeking a more relaxed dining experience, outdoor options will be available, including a permanent food truck-style structure.
Recognizing the evolving needs of modern travelers, the Beckley Travel Plaza West Virginia is equipped with enhanced amenities. Notably, the plaza will offer 50 additional parking spaces for tractor-trailers, addressing a crucial need for commercial drivers. Moreover, it will feature 16 electric vehicle charging stations, catering to the growing number of EV owners and promoting sustainable travel along the West Virginia Turnpike.
In conclusion, the Beckley Travel Plaza West Virginia represents a significant upgrade to the travel infrastructure of the state. With its diverse amenities, dining options, and enhanced facilities like increased parking and EV charging stations, the plaza is set to become a premier stop for travelers on the West Virginia Turnpike. The imminent grand opening marks a new chapter in travel plaza experiences in West Virginia, promising convenience, comfort, and a taste of local culture for all who visit.
