The Clarksburg Telegram
by John G. Miller, Managing Editor
BRIDGEPORT, (Wednesday, October 25, 2000)
One of the first investments planned for Charles Pointe, the new master-planned community unveiled on Wednesday, is a $9 million conference center and hotel.
The City of Bridgeport will own the 10,000 square foot conference center while the hotel will be constructed and operated by The Humphrey Companies. According to a press release, the two parties are working on an agreement to finalize the design and construction of the conference center. Construction should begin by mid 2001.
In an exclusive interview with the Telegram, James A. Corton, president of Genesis Partners, the community’s main developer, said that the hotel is expected to be a "Hilton-type" although negotiations are pending with several of the leading hotel chains.
In a prepared statement, Jim I. Humphrey, chairman and owner of Humphrey Companies, said he will negotiate a deal to bring "high-end hotel brands such as Hilton and Marriott" to the development."
"I see Charles Pointe as being a world class development that will host visitors from around the nation and world This development needs world class hotels to match its commitment to a quality community."
Corton said the main hotel will be one of possibly three located on the 2,000-acre site. He added that he and his wife, Jennifer Compton Corton, are excited that Bridgeport is providing "an important anchor to Charles Pointe by locating the conference center in our development."
Bridgeport Mayor L. J. Timms said in a prepared statement that the city believes the development is wonderful for his city, the region and the entire state.
"Charles Pointe provides an excellent opportunity for our city to grow, not just in numbers, but in quality of life and new jobs," Timms said.
"The new economic development spurred by Charles Pointe, combined with the natural beauty of West Virginia, will create the ultimate environment to live and work.
Another prominent partner in the development, West Virginia University, was represented by president David C. Hardesty, Jr. He said the university will provide assistance in education, training and research, which are critical for the success of any community.
"West Virginia University stands ready to assist the fortunate occupants of Charles Pointe as they grow, learn and stimulate the economy," Hardesty said in a prepared statement. "That is our mission as the state’s flagship land-grant university, and we look forward to the many opportunities ahead."
