MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — Mayor Kevin Knowles says his city is experiencing unprecedented growth.
“We’ve seen a 49% increase in businesses in Martinsburg over the last three years,” Knowles said. “Over the last year we became the third highest city in the state for business licenses. That’s huge.”
Knowles, who recently gave his state of the city, said he’s proud of the way that Martinsburg’s reputation has changed in recent years.
“Years ago they used to call use little Baltimore and we’re not called that anymore. We are a thriving city that’s moving forward real quick, real fast, that’s been able to utilize the funding that we got through ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) to help businesses,” Knowles said.
Projects ahead for the city include near streetscape work in the King Street area and the completion of the Mill project. Monument Companies announced plans in 2021 to invest $120 million in three-phase project that will turn the old Interwoven Mill and Perfection Garment Company into commercial space along with nearly 400 residential units. Knowles said 80 applications have been approved for residents to live there.
“There are huge things happening all around the city,” Knowles said.
Martinsburg’s next city budget will be at more than $52 million. Knowles said the city is fiscally strong. The city has used a significant part of its revenue to pay city workers more.
“In the past three years as mayor,” Knowles said. “We’ve given over 15%-plus increases in pay across the board, to elevate those wages so they are competitive with county and local areas.”
