#cityofwheeling

WHEELING, W.VA. – With a stretch of bitterly cold weather in the forecast for the area, the City of Wheeling is reminding residents to take steps to prevent frozen water lines and the problems they can cause. Water Superintendent Lori Siburt said freezing temperatures can quickly lead to blocked or burst pipes, especially in vulnerable areas of the home. “Any pipe exposed to cold air is at risk, including those in basements, garages, along exterior walls or even inside kitchen and bathroom cabinets,” Siburt said. “When temperatures drop this low, it doesn’t take long for water to freeze and create serious issues.” Siburt noted that one of the most effective ways to reduce the chance of freezing is to allow water to flow slowly through the pipes. “For homes that have experienced frozen lines in the past, we recommend keeping a small, steady stream of water running, about the size of a pencil,” she explained. “That movement helps prevent ice from forming and can save homeowners from costly repairs.” She added that taking preventative action now can protect water meters and service lines while avoiding unnecessary service disruptions. “Letting water run just a little can make a big difference during extreme cold,” Siburt said. “It’s a simple precaution that can help residents avoid damage and the inconvenience of frozen pipes.” The City of Wheeling urges residents to follow these precautions as temperatures fall. For additional guidance or questions, residents may contact the City of Wheeling Water Department at (304) 234-3849. Read the full article

WHEELING, W.Va. — Due to inclement weather in the forecast, the City of Wheeling has rescheduled its free Movie Night featuring Zootopia 2. The event, originally planned for Friday, July 10, will now take place on Friday, July 17, at Heritage Port. The movie will begin at dusk, but the evening's family-friendly fun starts well before the opening credits. From 7:30 to 9 p.m., Oglebay's Good Zoo will be on site with several animal ambassadors, giving attendees the opportunity to meet and learn about a variety of animals. Additional free activities will include face painting and balloon art, and food trucks will be available throughout the evening with a variety of food and beverages available for purchase. In Zootopia 2, rabbit police officer Judy Hopps and her partner, the clever fox Nick Wilde, reunite to solve a mysterious new case that leads them on another adventure through the bustling animal metropolis. The film is rated PG. Admission to the movie and all pre-show activities is free. Families are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the activities, visit with the Good Zoo's animal ambassadors and settle in before the movie begins. Vendors interested in being a part of the event should contact Park & Recreation Director Rochelle Barry at [email protected]. For more information about the City's summer events, visit wheelingwv.gov/summerevents. Read the full article

WHEELING, W.Va. — Classic cars, music and community will come together to celebrate the life and legacy of longtime City of Wheeling employee Rusty Jebbia during the Forever in the Driver's Seat Car Cruise: A Tribute to Rusty Jebbia, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, July 12, at Heritage Port, 12th and Water streets. The free event will feature a non-judged car cruise, dash plaques for participating vehicles, music, food trucks and a 50/50 drawing. Jebbia dedicated more than 40 years of service to the City of Wheeling and was instrumental in organizing the Heritage Port Car Show, which he founded 22 years ago. Through his passion for cars and his commitment to the community, he helped build the annual event into a favorite summertime tradition for automotive enthusiasts and families alike. Following Jebbia's passing in February, it is appropriate to honor his memory by continuing the tradition he loved while celebrating the lasting impact he made on Wheeling. This tribute is a fitting way to celebrate Jebbia’s life, his dedication to the City and the legacy he leaves behind. We invite everyone to join us as we remember Rusty and enjoy an afternoon filled with great cars, great food and great fellowship. There is no registration fee to participate, and admission is free for spectators. Whether showcasing a classic vehicle or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the cruise, attendees are encouraged to come out and help celebrate the life of a man whose love for cars helped create one of Wheeling's most enduring community events. For more information, contact the City of Wheeling at (304) 234-6432. Read the full article

I was 9 in the summer of 1976, fresh off fourth grade at St. Mike’s and ready for our family vacation to Disney World. It was a trip that tricked me and my siblings, though, because there were hours of separation between Florida’s north border and the Land of Mickey Mouse outside of Orlando. There was only the Magic Kingdom back then, too, and it was still fresh from its opening eight years earlier. Cinderella’s Castle, the Carousel of Progress, Space Mountain, The Hall of Presidents, The Haunted Mansion … it sure did feel like a small world after all. But those Disney memories aren’t my favorites from the summer of 1976, and that’s because the United States was celebrating her Bicentennial birthday and it was a very big deal in Wheeling, W.Va. Every storefront in downtown Wheeling was dressed up in red, white, and blue ribbons and flags, veterans were wearing their dress uniforms, patriotism was expected and appreciated, and I swear someone dove off of the Suspension Bridge on the Fourth of July. The Wharf was consistently crowded with cars owned by employees in downtown Wheeling, and by shoppers. The Ohio River was hidden from downtown Wheeling 50 years ago by a giant, steel parking garage known as The Wharf. Those four floors could hold more than 900 cars, and it’s where most downtown employees would park so the street spots were available for customers. On July 4, 1976, every single spot was filled with tailgaters and their kids, and the top, sunny level was the most crowded area. Rock bands were playing across the river at a barge bar called “The Yacht Club” on Wheeling Island, the water was choppy from all of the boat traffic, and everyone was waiting for the fireworks at dusk. But before the first boom was an amazing splash. It was just as the valley got golden with the sun beginning to dip behind Bridgeport when everyone’s attention was directed to the historic bridge. There was a man on a small platform directly in the middle of the span, and he was wearing a 1979-style Speedo. And off he went. Like a needle. It seemed to take a while before the man disappeared, and then the crowd roared the moment he resurfaced. Programming for America 250 Wheeling is supported by the City of Wheeling, Elizabeth Stifel Kline Foundation, First Presbyterian Church, Fort Henry Chapter of the National Society Sons of the American Revolution, Oglebay Institute, Ohio County Public Library, Wheeling Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Wheeling Heritage, and the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra. He raised his arm as if he had reclaimed our freedoms with his brave leap into what was a dumping site of a waterway, and the joy was palpable. We The People were proud, and the fireworks had never been better than they were that night. And here we are today, 50 years later and just seven weeks away from Independence Day, and it’s the country’s Semiquincentennial birthday – or America’s 250th. The City of Wheeling has partnered with Wheeling Heritage and a number of other organizations to develop the celebrations surrounding the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra’s annual “Celebrate America” performance at Heritage Port, and thousands of local residents will gather along the riverfront in downtown Wheeling. As long as the weather cooperates, the valley will get gold again as the sun dips down just before the pyrotechnics begin, and while there isn’t a daring diver on the agenda this year, I still have to wonder what today’s 9-year-olds think about their country and its birthday. https://ledenews.com/an-open-letter-to-the-new-hatfields-mccoys/ Read the full article

Wheeling, W.VA. - Dust off your leather jackets and dig out those poodle skirts! The City of Wheeling is inviting the community to a free outdoor screening of the classic musical Grease on Friday, June 26, at Heritage Port. The movie will begin at dusk. “Summer movie nights are a wonderful way to bring the community together and enjoy an evening along the waterfront,” said Parks & Recreation Director Rochelle Barry. “We’re excited to welcome residents and visitors downtown for a fun-filled night featuring one of the most beloved movie musicals of all time.” Set against the backdrop of the 1950s, Grease follows the story of Sandy Olsson and Danny Zuko as they navigate young love, friendships and high school life after a summer romance unexpectedly continues at Rydell High. Featuring memorable songs, energetic dance numbers and standout performances from John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, the film has remained a fan favorite for generations. Grease israted PG.Admission is free, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Read the full article

City pools are also available to rent for private evening parties. Reservations can be made online at https://www.wheelingwv.gov/departments/Parks-Recreation.

I was 9 in the summer of 1976, fresh off fourth grade at St. Mike’s and ready for our family vacation to Disney World. It was a trip that tricked me and my siblings, though, because there were hours of separation between Florida’s north border and the Land of Mickey Mouse outside of Orlando. There was only the Magic Kingdom back then, too, and it was still fresh from its opening eight years earlier. Cinderella’s Castle, the Carousel of Progress, Space Mountain, The Hall of Presidents, The Haunted Mansion … it sure did feel like a small world after all. But those Disney memories aren’t my favorites from the summer of 1976, and that’s because the United States was celebrating her Bicentennial birthday and it was a very big deal in Wheeling, W.Va. Every storefront in downtown Wheeling was dressed up in red, white, and blue ribbons and flags, veterans were wearing their dress uniforms, patriotism was expected and appreciated, and I swear someone dove off of the Suspension Bridge on the Fourth of July. The Wharf was consistently crowded with cars owned by employees in downtown Wheeling, and by shoppers. The Ohio River was hidden from downtown Wheeling 50 years ago by a giant, steel parking garage known as The Wharf. Those four floors could hold more than 900 cars, and it’s where most downtown employees would park so the street spots were available for customers. On July 4, 1976, every single spot was filled with tailgaters and their kids, and the top, sunny level was the most crowded area. Rock bands were playing across the river at a barge bar called “The Yacht Club” on Wheeling Island, the water was choppy from all of the boat traffic, and everyone was waiting for the fireworks at dusk. But before the first boom was an amazing splash. It was just as the valley got golden with the sun beginning to dip behind Bridgeport when everyone’s attention was directed to the historic bridge. There was a man on a small platform directly in the middle of the span, and he was wearing a 1979-style Speedo. And off he went. Like a needle. It seemed to take a while before the man disappeared, and then the crowd roared the moment he resurfaced. Programming for America 250 Wheeling is supported by the City of Wheeling, Elizabeth Stifel Kline Foundation, First Presbyterian Church, Fort Henry Chapter of the National Society Sons of the American Revolution, Oglebay Institute, Ohio County Public Library, Wheeling Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Wheeling Heritage, and the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra. He raised his arm as if he had reclaimed our freedoms with his brave leap into what was a dumping site of a waterway, and the joy was palpable. We The People were proud, and the fireworks had never been better than they were that night. And here we are today, 50 years later and just seven weeks away from Independence Day, and it’s the country’s Semiquincentennial birthday – or America’s 250th. The City of Wheeling has partnered with Wheeling Heritage and a number of other organizations to develop the celebrations surrounding the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra’s annual “Celebrate America” performance at Heritage Port, and thousands of local residents will gather along the riverfront in downtown Wheeling. As long as the weather cooperates, the valley will get gold again as the sun dips down just before the pyrotechnics begin, and while there isn’t a daring diver on the agenda this year, I still have to wonder what today’s 9-year-olds think about their country and its birthday. Read the full article

Wheeling, WV (April 16, 2026) – Five (5) sealed submissions were received by Desmone for the public bid construction of the Wheeling Gateway Visitors and Heritage Center were received and unsealed Thursday afternoon, marking one of the final steps toward mobilizing construction on one of the most transformational development projects in Northern West Virginia’s modern history. A Once-in-a-Generation Investment The Wheeling Gateway Visitors and Heritage Center is a prototype for what tourism-driven economic development can look like in West Virginia — and a landmark that will redefine Wheeling’s primary entrance from the I-70 corridor for generations to come. More than 4,200 locals and visitors shaped the direction of this project through extensive community engagement. Their priorities guided every design decision from start to finish, including: A direct connection to the Heritage Trail Maximized views of the Historic Suspension Bridge Experiences rooted in Wheeling’s history The renderings for the new welcome/heritage center on 10th and Main streets in downtown Wheeling were released about two weeks ago, and the images revealed the facility would have access to the trails system along the Ohio River. That community vision resonated far beyond city limits. A coalition of federal, state, and local funding sources came together in support of this project, with contributions championed by Senator Shelley Moore Capito, Senator Jim Justice, Governor Patrick Morrisey, Congressman Riley Moore, and Senator Joe Manchin, among others. Most recently, a $2 million allocation was approved through the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026 to fund the structure connecting the building to the Heritage Trail below, one of the community’s most aspirational goals. “Going out to bid is how you take the temperature of the market, and that information is what our funding partners asked us to gather. This process gives us a clear picture of what it costs to deliver a project like this in today’s environment,” said Frank O’Brien, Executive Director of the Wheeling-Ohio County Convention Visitor’s Bureau. O’Brien continued, “Today, our architect has checked that the bids are all considered qualified and compliant with our funding agencies, and next week, the architect will meet with the three qualified, lowest bids to certify that their pricing matches the scope the project needs.” “The pricing we’ve received will directly inform how we work with our funding sources to refine our strategy and chart the clearest path forward.” Overview of Bidding Requirements  The public bidding process was led by the Wheeling-Ohio County Convention & Visitors Bureau in conjunction with Desmone Architects. Because the Wheeling Gateway Center has been made possible through a partnership spanning federal, state, and local funding sources, each with its own compliance requirements, the bid structure was carefully designed to meet the standards of every contributing agency. To qualify, every contractor who submitted a bid was required to: Obtain the complete bid document from the architect Attend the mandatory pre-bid meeting and site tour on March 26, 2026 Submit a fully completed AIA Document A305-2020 “Contractor’s Qualification Statement” Submit pricing for all seven base bid packages as outlined in the bid document Additional project-specific requirements specific to the funding sources included: Davis-Bacon Act Wages BABA (Build America, Buy America) Act Hazardous Soils Immediately after unsealing, Desmone Architects reviewed all submissions to confirm each met the full qualification requirements before advancing in the process. Firms that Submitted Completed Bid Packages in the Order They Were Publicly Opened: Stonemile Group - $25,900,000 United Construction Company - $38,309,047 Rycon Construction Incorporated - $28,895,00 Mascaro Construction - $33,976,000 Massaro Corporation - $32,656,600 The interior of the new Heritage/Welcome Center will feature historical displays that focus on the Wheeling area. What Comes Next? With bids now in hand, they will be sent to funding partners to allow for a review process that will take place from April 17 to April 20 to review the qualified bids through a structured analysis.  The three qualified and lowest bidders will then complete a meeting on April 22 to certify their bid scope, price with respect to the drawings and bidding instructions. Once the project team and funding partners have verified that all submissions are in full compliance with the requirements of every funding source, the contract negotiations will begin with the contractor who submitted the qualified, lowest bid covering the complete project scope as defined in the architectural drawings. A formal press release and statement will be made by the CVB when this process has concluded.  From the first public meeting to today’s bid opening, the Wheeling Gateway Center has been shaped by the people it will serve. The support of legislators and agencies across every level of government is a testament to what a community-driven vision can accomplish. The project team looks forward to the next phase, and to welcoming the partner who will help bring this landmark to life. Read the full article