Development Department 2023 Annual Report

A Message from Development Director, Ryan Barber

As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, I am filled with gratitude and pride in the progress we've achieved together in the City of Parkersburg. Our Planning & Development Department has navigated challenges and embraced opportunities, shaping a landscape of growth and revitalization throughout our community.

I extend my appreciation to the dedicated professionals in our department whose commitment and foresight have been the driving force behind our
successes. Your passion for enhancing our city's vibrancy has been instrumental in implementing initiatives that positively impact the lives of our residents.

I want to express my gratitude to Mayor Joyce for his support and vision for a beer Parkersburg. His leadership has been instrumental in steering us towards creating safer neighborhoods, sound infrastructure, and a prosperous city.

In 2023 our commitment to enhance our physical spaces was a top priority. The transformative investments in large-scale infrastructure projects like the Parkersburg Ohio River Trail, Market Street Sidewalk Enhancements, Benne-Stump Baseball Field, and the Southwood Park Swimming Pool exemplify our continued commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents.

These initiatives represent the collective efforts of a city that values our area’s natural beauty and recreational amenities.

Looking ahead to 2024, I am filled with excitement about the opportunities that await us. As we continue to communicate, coordinate, and collaborate, I am confident that 2024 will be another exceptional year for Parkersburg. Together, we will build upon the foundation we've laid and create an even more vibrant, sustainable, and prosperous city for generations to come.

With gratitude,
Ryan Barber
Development Director

Download the 2023 Development Annual Report (opens in a PDF)