Local residents can now share their ideas for how Weyerhaeuser should invest $1 million in the community through a new online survey launched Tuesday.
The survey asks residents what they love about Buckhannon, what needs improvement and which projects should be prioritized for the THRIVE program funding.
“We are grateful for the Weyerhaeuser Thrive Designation, and now is your opportunity to get involved,” the Upshur County Development Authority said in an announcement about the survey. “Your voice matters, and this is a fantastic chance to share your thoughts and ideas to help enhance our community. Your feedback will directly influence community programs and initiatives.”
The survey is available at this link.
Residents are asked to pick three priority areas from options that include a STEM center and workforce training programs, attainable housing, local school support, improved infrastructure, recreation, drug awareness and prevention, and technology-based economic development.
The survey also asks about specific development residents want to see, ranging from expanded educational opportunities to upgraded infrastructure and recreation spaces. Open-ended questions allow residents to suggest changes and improvements they believe would have the biggest positive impact.
Weyerhaeuser announced in October that Buckhannon would receive $1 million over several years through its THRIVE program. The company launched the initiative in 2023 to support sustainable growth in rural communities where its employees live and work.
The funds will be distributed with guidance from local elected officials, business leaders, nonprofits, employees and community partners.
Buckhannon mayor Robbie Skinner said at the time the city was “excited and grateful” to be selected.
“This investment is a clear signal of Weyerhaeuser’s commitment to Buckhannon,” Skinner said. “We look forward to partnering with company leaders and the people of this great community to build a stronger and better future together.”
Buckhannon is the third community nationwide chosen for THRIVE. The first two communities selected were Zwolle, Louisiana, and Raymond, Washington.
Katie Hooker, Weyerhaeuser’s corporate giving manager, said the company works with local leaders to determine the best use of funds based on each community’s unique needs.
“We’ll partner with local leaders and local nonprofits, determine what their highest needs are in the community, but also where we can make that the highest impact,” Hooker said in October.
Local officials emphasized they want the funding to support long-term sustainable projects rather than items that would quickly become outdated or wear out.
Weyerhaeuser has operated an engineered wood products plant in Buckhannon for more than 25 years. The facility ranks among the company’s top-performing sites for safety and manufacturing reliability. The company also manages more than 250,000 acres of timberlands across West Virginia and operates an oriented strand board mill in Sutton.
The survey does not automatically collect names or email addresses unless residents provide them.
