WTAP – Internet’s Role in Economic Growth in Parkersburg, W.Va.

PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) – Senator Shelley Moore Capito stopped by the Mid-Ohio Valley to learn how local businessesexpand their reach online.

She partnered with the Internet Association to tour four local businesses that use the web to grow their business.

Rural broadband accessibility is one of the main concerns facing these business owners.

They want to reach a larger audience for more online interactions. Capito says she wants to work with other leaders to make sure all West Virginians have access to the internet.

That way, they won't be left behind.

"Some of our people living in the rural areas do not have good connectivity. Their internet options are not good at all. It was really good to hear from here that she's working hard to get those companies to expand their services to the rural areas of our state," said Erin Augenstein, executive director of the Schrader Youth Ballet.

The Schrader Youth Ballet was one of the stops along the way, including The Coffee Bar, the Parkersburg Brewing Company and Netranom.