Gov. Jim Justice, along with local and state leaders, gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday evening to mark the official opening of the newly renovated Beckley Travel Plaza along the West Virginia Turnpike.
Located at Exit 45 on I-77, the plaza closed last February for demolition and construction. The newly updated facility now offers a variety of amenities for travelers, including popular dining options like Wendy’s, Starbucks, and Popeyes. In addition, the plaza features the Mountain State Market, which offers a selection of local and regional gourmet foods, along with a grab-and-go food bar.
The new plaza also houses a Tamarack Artisan Shop, showcasing the work of local West Virginia artists.
Ongoing Revamp Effort
The Beckley Plaza renovation is part of a larger project to update two key travel plazas along the Turnpike. The revamp also includes Mercer County’s Bluestone Travel Plaza, which is still under construction.
In February, the West Virginia Parkways Authority approved a contract with Paramount Builders LLC of St. Albans, totaling $122,820,381.53, to update both travel plazas. Gov. Justice referred to the travel plazas as the “two glass houses,” highlighting their modern design and importance.
Governor’s Remarks
Gov. Justice praised the project, emphasizing that the newly renovated plaza not only offers travelers a place to rest, relax, and recharge but also serves as an important way to showcase the best of what West Virginia has to offer.
“This not only services all the travelers, but it also acts as a marketing tool like none other,” said Gov. Jim Justice.
Operating Hours
The Beckley Travel Plaza is now open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., providing travelers with convenient access to food, local goods, and much more.