All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Mayor McCauley and West Virginia Elected Leaders Urge Congress to Restore Our National Parks

Bill to fix repairs await action by Congressional leadership

BUCKHANNON — Local leaders across the country, including Mayor McCauley of Buckhannon as one of 11 in West Virginia, are calling on congressional leadership to act on legislation that would invest in serious repairs, ensuring that national parks continue to sustain tourism dollars, bolster local economies, and preserve national treasures in West Virginia.

More than 400 local elected officials across the nation sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi asking them to move legislation forward to address high priority deferred maintenance issues. 

These repairs account for more than half of National Park Service’s (NPS) $12 billion maintenance backlog, and $6.5 billion provided by the legislation would go a long way to fix deteriorating historic buildings, crumbling roads, eroding trails and campgrounds, and outdated water and sewer systems. The New River Gorge has over $21 million in deferred maintenance that needs attention.  

“Park restoration is crucial,” said Mayor of Buckhannon, Dave McCauley. “It supported over a thousand jobs and added nearly $74 million to the state economy in 2018 alone.”

The Restore Our Parks Act in the Senate (S. 500) and the Restore Our Parks and Public Lands Act in the House (H.R. 1225) would direct up to $6.5 billion over five years to address priority maintenance needs, financed by unobligated mineral revenues from public lands and waters. The legislation has support from nearly ½ of the Senate and over ¾ of the House of Representatives. In West Virginia, we are fortunate that our entire delegation has signed on to co-sponsor this vital piece of legislation.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Upshur County pool splashes back from repairs, continues busy summer with activities, parties and night swims

After a multi-day closure for repairs, the Upshur County Pool is reopening with a packed summer schedule featuring lessons, parties, night swims, and new event packages, positioning it for one of its busiest seasons yet.

Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur welcomes new members, new president for 2025-26

The Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur installed Sandi LaRosa as its new president for 2025-26 after a year marked by 1,500 service hours, significant membership growth, and numerous community grants.

Kyle and Judy Lane to celebrate 60th wedding anniversary this weekend

Kyle and Judy Lane will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with a gathering at Kesling Mill Lions Club on June 21, inviting friends and family to join in marking the milestone.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital welcomes Valorie Richardson as surgical services manager

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital has appointed Valorie Richardson, a veteran surgical nurse and leader, as Manager of Surgical Services, citing her extensive experience and dedication to patient-centered care.

Upshur Update: Catch up on the latest local news in our June 17, 2025 podcast

This week’s Upshur Update podcast covers a new school cellphone policy, a hospital leadership hire, local student achievements, a DUI arrest, community outreach for houseless residents, a job opening, and record attendance at the Strawberry Festival.

Mother, son both earn degrees from WVWC School of Nursing

Mother and son Valerie and Noah Jordan both graduated from West Virginia Wesleyan College’s School of Nursing during Commencement Weekend, celebrating their shared family tradition and commitment to nursing education and leadership.
Upshur County Courthouse

Buckhannon Banter: Get the local lowdown for June 17, 2025

This week’s local highlights include a scholarship for the Class of 2026, a free Soulful Energy Festival, temporary service changes at Fish Hawk Acres, and open youth soccer registration for the fall.

Celebrate the summer solstice with an evening paddle hosted by the Buckhannon River Watershed Association

The Buckhannon River Watershed Association is inviting the public to a free, all-level Summer Solstice paddle and ice cream social on June 21, promoting community and river stewardship along a gentle four-mile river stretch.

Robert John Taylor Jr.

Robert John Taylor Jr., a devoted family man, avid outdoorsman, dedicated professional, and beloved community member, passed away at 71, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and resilience.