2:23 p.m. - Penco Road rededicated with ceremony today

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Area business and government officials came together today to rededicate Penco Road following a three-year, almost $2 million project to revitalize the local roadway.

Officials from the City of Weirton, state of West Virginia, Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce and others came together at 1 p.m. at the intersection of Penco Road and Elaine Street to cut the ribbon officially rededicating the road.

State Sen. Ed Bowman, D-Weirton, who arranged much of the funding for the project, explained the effort to revitalize Penco Road began three years ago when he obtained a beautification grant of $750,000. However, city officials felt the project would be more beneficial if it were redeveloped, including the installation of drainage.

"Obviously we're very, very proud," Bowman said following today's ceremony.

Other local officials agreed, saying the streetscape project and other efforts currently in the works in Weirton will help to bring about a new community spirit.

"It's started to bring pride back into the community," Mayor Mark Harris said.

In addition to the renovations to the roadway, the Weirton Chamber assisted with the purchase of light poles, flags and banners, which were made possible through donations from its membership and local residents.

"We were overwhelmingly pleased," Weirton Chamber President Brenda Mull said.

According to local officials, the completion of the Penco Road project is just one of many beautification and improvement efforts being planned for the city of Weirton.