McDowell prison needs wares, workers to run a small city
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Published: February 07, 2010 10:15 pm
McDowell prison needs wares, workers to run a small city
By CHARLES OWENS
Bluefield Daily Telegraph
WELCH — With construction on the new McDowell Federal Correctional Institution scheduled for completion next month, officials are stressing opportunities that are currently available for local businesses and entrepreneurs.
In addition to the ongoing hiring of employees, the federal prison also will be looking to buy goods and services from the community, according to Rachel Lester, the county’s economic development director.
“We’ve actually put a package together for citizens and business leaders,” Lester said. “There are so many items that could be provided locally — anything that it would take to operate a small city. It’s also an opportunity for local entrepreneurs to start up businesses and something we could help them with. If they are interested, we have packets they can pick up at the EDA (office in Welch) that provides them details.”
Lester said several workshops and webinars also are being held to inform and assist the public with government contracting.
Construction on the $232 million federal prison is scheduled for completion next month. Lester said the Federal Bureau of Prisons is still listing its opening date as spring.
Lester said hiring for internal positions is well underway and response has been good so far from McDowell County citizens.
“Everything is on schedule,” Lester said. “They are still saying spring. I know they are holding interviews. We are excited to get it going.”
A number of workshops are being planned, and interested citizens can call (304) 623-7447 for more details, or e-mail Naomi.Bassel@sba.gov.
Lester said local companies must be registered to do business with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and the free workshops are designed to aid citizens in the process. Lester said citizens seeking more details can call the economic development office in Welch at (304) 436-3833.
