New travel plaza opens on the West Virginia Turnpike

BECKLEY, W.Va. (WSAZ) – Jarrett Trombley, who lives in North Carolina, said he was surprised by the newly renovated travel stop in Beckley on his way home from visiting family in Michigan.

“I thought it was really nice. It was kind of fancy for like a travel plaza,” Trombley said. “It was really cool that they had a lot of restaurants and clean bathrooms.”

Gov. Jim Justice joined other state officials for the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the travel plaza after a soft opening last week.

Justice said the renovations represent what the state has to offer to more than 3 million drivers on the turnpike each year.

“This not only services all of the travelers, but it also acts as a marketing tool like none other,” Justice said.

“It does a good job at sort of setting an example for West Virginia, giving it a good impression to people who may not be from here,” Trombley said.

After surveying travelers, state officials decided to add a 24/7 market, as well as other food options, picnic areas, an artisan shop and more room for gas pumps and parking.

Trombley said the travel stop’s success comes down to reliability.

“Places like this would be much more beneficial and pleasurable to stop at than just stopping at any old exit and any old gas station,” Trombley said.

Justice said the travel plaza will jumpstart the next administration’s efforts to increase tourism with more travel plaza upgrades on the way.

“But we just gotta make sure we keep it going, and I truly believe and I’m gonna be supportive of the next governor Patrick Morrissey and all the good stuff that can be done. I’ll be standing ready to help any time in any way.”

The plaza will offer a Popeyes, Wendy’s and Starbucks along with some electric vehicle charging stations.

State officials tell WSAZ the Bluestone Travel Plaza is set to open in mid-January.

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