Transmission Lines, Shepherdstown Projects, Community Volunteers
Published about 3 hours ago • 15 min read
Observer Weekly
June 11, 2026
Jefferson County, WV news & events
Residents and visitors alike appeared to enjoy last weekend’s Street Fest in Shepherdstown. Even the intense storm that blew through late in the day couldn’t stop the music — thankfully the main stage was under cover and the bands resumed playing after the storm passed. The music lineup for this weekend’s WV Fest looks equally impressive, so everyone has a chance to keep the party going this weekend.
Closing an entire downtown street for an entire day always generates mixed feelings among residents and businesses alike. The question on the table in Shepherdstown is whether a much smaller stretch of street might be closed on a more permanent basis. The idea to close the street around the Market House has been kicking around for many years, in various forms. The latest proposal is in the pilot phase, but there is a lot of skepticism around town about whether it should proceed.
Valley Link Transmission LLC, a joint venture of several major energy companies, recently announced a schedule of public meetings for a new 765-kilovolt transmission line it intends to build across West Virginia, Virginia and Maryland.
The project, known as Valley North, would include approximately 260 miles of transmission line connecting the John Amos generating plant in Putnam County, West Virginia, to new substations in Hardy County, West Virginia, and Frederick County, Maryland.
Valley Link will host an open house to discuss the project on Tuesday, June 30 from 4 to 7:30 pm at the Storer Ballroom in Shepherd University's Student Center, located at 210 North King Street in Shepherdstown. Parking will be available in university lots and on nearby streets.
The Valley Link joint venture includes Dominion Energy, FirstEnergy Transmission, and Transource Energy. Transource is jointly owned by American Electric Power and Evergy. Dominion Energy announced in May 2026 that it had agreed to be acquired by NextEra Energy.
The Valley North project proposal was accepted by PJM Interconnection, the regional power grid operator, in 2024. This project is separate from a 500-kilovolt transmission project proposal accepted by PJM in 2023, which consists of two segments:
MARL (Mid-Atlantic Resiliency Link), to be developed by NextEra, would run from Greene County, Pennsylvania, through Allegany and Garrett counties in Maryland and Monongalia, Preston, Mineral, and Hardy counties in West Virginia before ending in Frederick County, Virginia, west of Winchester. The project also includes construction of a new substation near Winchester.
GDGC (Gore-Dobbs-Goose Creek), to be developed by FirstEnergy, would connect to the MARL line in Frederick County, Virginia, and cross Jefferson County, West Virginia, Loudoun County, Virginia, and Frederick County, Maryland, before connecting to upgraded substations in Maryland.
FirstEnergy held an open house for the GDGC project in August 2025. First Energy has said it plans to use much taller monopoles for the Jefferson County segment to allow the planned 500 kilovolt transmission line to stay within an existing right-of-way that currently exists for a smaller 128 kilovolt transmission line.
NextEra has filed its plans for the MARL project with the West Virginia Public Service Commission (PSC), and the county commissions of the four West Virginia counties within the project's footprint have filed as intervenors in the PSC proceedings. FirstEnergy has not yet formally submitted its GDGC plans to the PSC.
Local Opposition
In February 2025, the Jefferson County Commission voted to send a letter to PJM opposing the proposed GDGC route through Jefferson County. The vote followed a presentation by local residents outlining concerns about the project.
Those residents later organized as Jefferson County VOLT, which has continued efforts to oppose the GDGC line.
The Commission's letter to PJM included one qualification to its opposition, stating that it could support transmission projects that include substations providing direct benefits to Jefferson County.
At present, however, no new substations are planned in Jefferson County as part of either the 500-kilovolt MARL/GDGC project or the 765-kilovolt Valley North project.
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Shepherdstown Council Discusses Plaza, Pipes and PUDs.
Shepherdstown Town Council on June 10
The Shepherdstown Town Council had a full agenda on June 10, with discussions ranging from the controversial Market House Plaza proposal to a major water infrastructure project, along with several recognitions for community leaders and outgoing council members.
Market House Plaza Project Draws Questions
The evening's longest and most spirited discussion focused on the proposed Market House Plaza pilot project, which would close the section of King Street surrounding the Market House in the heart of downtown.
Before hearing public comments, council members spent considerable time discussing exactly what had been approved during an April 8 vote on the project. Following that discussion, the council voted to amend the April meeting minutes to clarify that it had approved moving forward with the pilot project.
During public comment, Maria Allen, a town resident and business owner, read a written statement on behalf of herself and several other downtown business owners and residents. She raised concerns about whether the Town has done its homework on how delivery vehicles, emergency responders and other traffic will move around the town if South King Street around the Market House is permanently blocked. Allen urged the Town Council to do more thorough work before moving forward, including considering alternative approaches to a permanent street closure that might improve the safety and usability of the space around the Market House.
Water Line Replacements In The Future
While the Market House discussion generated the most public interest, another project discussed Tuesday night could have an even larger impact on town residents over the coming decade.
Public Works Director Woody Coe introduced plans to replace 422 galvanized water service lines throughout Shepherdstown. The project is required under updated Environmental Protection Agency regulations aimed at reducing potential lead contamination in drinking water systems.
Although Shepherdstown has already removed its lead pipes, galvanized lines connected to older lead infrastructure can still pose risks because they may have accumulated lead over time. The affected lines are concentrated primarily in the downtown area, including portions of German, High, New, Princess and Washington streets. Federal regulations require the work to be completed by 2037. The cost of replacing the lines will be covered through a combination of town utility funds and grant funding from the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection.
Coe suggested the town may want to consider tackling sidewalk, streetscape and other infrastructure improvements at the same time to minimize future disruptions and potentially take advantage of additional grant opportunities.
The project is in its early planning stages, and council members are expected to revisit the topic before any construction begins.
PUD Ordinance Changes Delayed
A proposed update to the town's Planned Unit Development (PUD) ordinance was put on hold after council members requested additional revisions.
The proposed PUD ordinance changes would affect how the Town reviews and approved larger residential developments with shared open spaces and community amenities. Instead of moving forward with a second reading, the Town Council opted to send the draft back for further staff review.
Honoring Community Leaders
This week’s Town Council meeting also included several moments of celebration.
Mayor James Gatz presented a proclamation honoring retiring Shepherd University President Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix for her service to both the university and the broader Shepherdstown community. Council members unanimously approved the recognition.
The Council also recognized outgoing Councilmembers Marty Amerikaner, Linus Bicker, Carrie Blessing and Shannon Thomas, all of whom will complete their terms at the end of June. The proclamations were accompanied by warm remarks and a few hugs.
Town Plans Purchase of School Building
During a special meeting earlier in the week, on Monday June 8, the Town Council voted unanimously to move forward with purchasing the former Shepherdstown Elementary School property from the Jefferson County Board of Education. You can read more about that topic at ObserverWV.com.
During the Monday meeting, the Council also confirmed the ballot counting for the recent election. At the Wednesday meeting, the Council formally certified the results, The three new Councilmembers (Jim Auxer, Ashleigh Sanders, and Joe Yates) and new Recorder Harriet Pearson will join the Council starting July 1. Mayor James Gatz, along with Councilmembers Marcy Bartlett and Cheryl Roberts, will be continuing on the Council. All will be serving for a two year term through June of 2028.
A message from WVU Medicine
The Future is Here!
WVU Medicine is bringing advanced specialty care, new services, and major investments directly to the Eastern Panhandle region. Advancements are underway to ambulatory services, cancer care, and more at WVU Medicine Jefferson Medical Center as part of a major $260 million investment to expand healthcare access in the Eastern Panhandle. Learn more about our new services and providers at WVUMedicine.org/FutureisHere, or follow us on social media.
The participants in this year’s Leadership Jefferson program gathered at Hite Park on June 5 to dedicate their “Roots of Hope” service project and present a check for $18,000 to CASA of the Eastern Panhandle . According to Michelle Sudduth, who was marking her last day as Executive Director of CASA, this was the largest donation the organization has received from private donors during her seven year tenure.
For the project at Hite Park, the Leadership Jefferson volunteers installed 10 benches and planted 24 trees to enhance the park usability for visitors. The trees were donated to the project by the Cacapon Institute.
In a statement read by Ricky Beaulieu and Dillon Gray, they described the Leadership Jefferson class as “20 strangers who were brought together by the amazing work of the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce. As we discussed what we would like to do as a group, we knew that we wanted to do two things, provide a space that the community could enjoy for years to come and help the children of CASA. We were able to accomplish both, leaving a legacy within the community.”
This Year’s Class
This year’s Leadership Jefferson class included the following individuals: Crystal Baker (Potomac Bank), Andy Beall (Jefferson County), Richard Beaulieu (American Public University System), Leah Brooks (Pour Choices), Tiffany Cookus (WVU Medicine), Sara Duncan (RE/MAX Distinctive Real Estate), Dana Fogle (Fogle Accounting & Consulting PLLC), Dillan Gray (Hospice of the Panhandle), Nicole Hopkin (Harpers Ferry Park Association), Ashton Kwek (Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races), Veronica Marcus (Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races), Alison Mee (The Stubblefield Institute), Leonardo Miranda (Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races), Tracy Regalia (Edward Jones-Regalia), Cecilia Shields (WVU Medicine), Liana Stinson (Bowles Rice), Shelby Turley (Steptoe & Johnson), Tara Vann (Jefferson County), Rhonda Willingham (Jefferson County Assessor's Office). The class was led by Heather Morgan McIntyre, Kayla Launi, and Amy Panzarella.
Training Local Leaders
Leadership Jefferson is a program of the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce. Each yearly class offers participants to learn about local government, education, economic development, nonprofits, and community services while building strong cross-sector relationships with their fellow participants.
Applications for the 2027 Leadership Jefferson class are open until August 15. The application and information about the program is available on the Chamber of Commerce website.
A message from the Shepherdtown Opera House
Town Run Theater Company presents Greater Tuna
The fictional town of Tuna may be the third-smallest town in Texas, but the laughs are bigger than life. Two actors, 20 characters, and a blizzard of oddball costume changes make for a fast-paced and zany exploration of small-town life in America. Two weekends only, June 12-13-14 and June 19-20-21, at the Shepherdstown Opera House. >>>Details & tickets…
Worth Noting...
County Assessor Wins Award — Assessor Angela Banks (image above) was awarded the 2026 Ralph C. Boyles award by the West Virginia State Tax Department. The award recognizes her dedication to public service, professionalism, responsiveness to constituents, strong leadership, and deep knowledge of property tax administration. She was also commended for supporting staff, maintaining meticulous records, and demonstrating a commitment to both her office and the broader community. >>>Read more…
Municipal Election Results — Both Ranson and Shepherdstown have completed the official canvas from their recent elections. The ballot canvass added a few previously uncounted votes to the totals (updated results here). There were no changes during the Shepherdtown ballot canvass. The Shepherdstown Town Council certified the election results during its regular meeting on June 10. The Ranson City Council will certify its election results at its June 16 regular meeting.
School Board Stipend Review — The Jefferson County Board of Education gave direction during its June 8 meeting to Superintendent Chuck Bishop to have further discussions with an independent consultant about analyzing compensation for all employees of the school system. The Board also voted to approve a new three year contract with Dr. Bishop beginning on July 1.
Jefferson County Schools Employment Fair — The school system is looking for bus drivers, cooks, custodians, carpenters and other support staff. Saturday, June 13, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at Ranson Elementary School (245 Ranson Campus Dr, Ranson) >>>Details & application…
Bulky Trash Collection — The Berkeley County Solid Waste Authority will hold its annual Bulky Collection event on Saturday, June 20, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Grapevine Road Recycling Center (111 Landfill Dr, Martinsburg). >>>More info…
A message from A T Ridenour family and friends
Arts, Culture & Community Events
Highlights of upcoming events around Jefferson County:
Storytime in the Dale — A community storytime program for children and families. St. Andrews Mountain Community Center, 58 Mission Road, Harpers Ferry. Friday, June 12, 10:15 am. Free. Info…
Spray Tie Die — A tie-dye activity program for participants of all ages. Bring your own shirt or other item to use for this craft project. Bolivar-Harpers Ferry Library, 151 Polk St, Harpers Ferry. Friday, June 12, 2 pm. Free. Info…
Brunswick Family-Friendly Pride — A community Pride celebration featuring activities for all ages. Downtown Brunswick, 1 East Potomac St, Brunswick, MD. Friday, June 12, 5-8 pm. Free. Info…
Live Music: Tartan Terrors — A performance by Celtic music group Tartan Terrors as part of the Levitt AMP Shenandoah Junction Music Series. The AMP at Sam Michaels Park, 235 Sam Michaels Drive, Shenandoah Junction. Friday, June 12, gates open 6 pm, music at 7 pm. Free.Info…
On Stage: Greater Tuna — A live theater production of the comedy Greater Tuna by the Town Run Theater Company. Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 West German St, Shepherdstown. June 12, 13, 14 & 19, 20 21. Fri & Sat at 7 pm and Sun at 3 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
On Stage: A Night of Fight & Fury — A play presented by the Roving Peregrine Theatre Company. Black Box Theater, 113 South Princess St, Shepherdtown. June 12, 13, 14 & 19, 20, 21. Fri & Sat at 8 pm and Sun at 2:30 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Middleway Cleanup Day — Volunteers will help clean public areas in and around Middleway. Grantham Hall, Union Church, 112 East St, Middleway. Saturday, June 13, 9-11 am. Info… Info…
Town Run Stream Cleanup — Volunteers will assist with stream and watershed cleanup efforts organized by the Town Run Watershed Group. Morgan's Grove Park, 4198 Kearneysville Pike, Shepherdstown. Saturday, June 13, 9 am-noon. Info…
WV Fest — A community festival featuring vendors, food, games, and live music throughout the day. Downtown Charles Town. Saturday, June 13, 10 am-5 pm. Free. Info…
38th Annual Martinsburg June Jubilee — A family-friendly event featuring kids’ activities, live music, magic, local vendors, food trucks, and mini golf. War Memorial Park, 500 North Tennessee Ave, Martinsburg. Sunday, June 14, 11 am-5 pm. Free. Info…
Tea Party in the Courtyard — An afternoon tea gathering held in the courtyard of the historic McFarland House. 409 South Queen St, Martinsburg. Sunday, June 14, 1-3 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Flag Day Celebration — A family-friendly Flag Day event featuring games and activities organized by We The People. Jefferson Memorial Park, 801 South Mildred St, Charles Town. Sunday, June 14, 2-6 pm. Free. Info…
Jazz in the Park — An outdoor jazz concert by Moonbright Jazz Band. Shafer Park, 37 Park Dr, Boonsboro, MD. Sunday, June 14, 7 pm. Free. Info…
Our Composite Nation — Academic symposium on the practice of history education in the public sphere organized by the MacMillan Center at Yale University that is open to the public. Shepherd University campus (multiple locations). Sunday, June 14–Tuesday, June 16. Free. Info…
Heroes & Villains: Reconciling the Legacies of Our Country's Historical Leaders — A program exploring the complicated legacy of key figures in American history presented by the Stubblefield Institute for Civil Political Communications at Shepherd University. Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History and Education Auditorium, 213 North King St, Shepherdstown. Tuesday, June 16, 7-8:30 pm. Free. Info…
Trivia Night: School's Out — A trivia competition fundraiser benefiting the Shepherdstown Public Library. Shepherdstown Public Library, 145 Higbee Ln, Shepherdstown. Wednesday, June 17, 6-8 pm. Info…
Graveyard Tour — A guided tour of the historic cemetery at Zion Episcopal Church. Zion Episcopal Church, 301 East Congress St, Harpers Ferry. Wednesday, June 17, 6-7:30 pm. Free but reservations required. Info…
Ongoing
Art & Earth Juried Exhibit — 16th annual exhibit hosted by the Berkeley Arts Council. Berkeley Art Words, 116 North Queen St, Martinsburg. Open Thursdays and Fridays 11 am-4 pm; Saturdays and Sundays 11 am-5 pm. Ongoing until June 14. Free. Info…
St. Isidore Market — Weekly market featuring local vendors offering produce and handmade goods. St. James Catholic Church, 49 Crosswinds Dr, Charles Town. Thursdays, year-round, 5-6:30 pm. Free. Info… Brunswick Main Street Farmers Market— A farmers market featuring local produce, food, and vendors. 300 East Potomac St, Brunswick, MD. Friday, June 12, 4-7 pm. Free. Info…
Charles Town Farmers Market — Weekly open-air farmers market featuring local produce, baked goods and artisan vendors. South Samuel St between Washington St and Congress St, Charles Town. Saturdays, 9 am-noon. Free. Info…
Shepherdstown Farmers Market — Weekly farmers market featuring local produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and live music. Behind the Market House, 100 South King St, Shepherdstown. Sundays, 9 am-1 pm. Free. Info…
Martinsburg Farmers Market — Seasonal farmers market featuring local produce, baked goods, and artisan vendors. 125 W King St, Martinsburg, WV. Saturdays, April–October, 10 am-2 pm. Free. Info…
Spotlight — Contemporary American Theater Festival
Opening night for the 2026 Contemporary American Theater Festival (CATF) is only a few weeks away, but the Shepherdstown is already buzzing with excitement and energy as the cast and crew work to bring five new plays to life. The energy goes well beyond the three stages on the Shepherd University campus to infect the entire town.
At the welcome cookout event on July 8 (image above), there were brief introductions and some fun games to get the newly arrived company members introduced to each other. CATF Artistic Director Peggy McKowen invited everyone to explore the town and warned them to expect lots of friendly interactions with the residents.
This year’s festival features five plays (click on play title for details, show times, and ticket links):
The Smoker — An unlikely cohort of under-employed, underinsured dreamers on a New York street corner who have one thing in common: their need for a cigarette.
Refugee Rhapsody — A chance meeting of a pair of young Arab Americans and an impossibly rich patroness sets in motion a chain of events that leads to a violent crime.
¡VOS! — A young woman on a journey toward motherhood that unexpectedly uncovers the lives of two women who vanished during Argentina’s Dirty War.
My Favorite Sociopath — A biting comedy set at the dawning of the 24-hour news cycle era, portraying three journalism students whose friendship spirals into a dangerous game of ambition, seduction, and betrayal.
The CATF calendar also includes more than 30 talktheater events that offer discussions, lectures and behind the scenes visits to explore the new play development process.Details about these events and available at CATF.org.
Every week, The Observer digs into the details that matter in Jefferson County. Our content is free for everyone to read, but producing well-researched local news isn’t free.
