WHEELING, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today made a stop in Wheeling at Oglebay Park where she met with staff from Oglebay and the Wheeling Park Commission. Oglebay is the recipient of a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan, which was included as part of the CARES Act to help businesses struggling due to COVID-19. During the visit, Senator Capito toured the park and heard directly from park leadership and others about how the PPP has helped the park during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following the initial lockdown due to COVID-19, Oglebay lost more than $1.5 million in lodging revenue. Following the passage of the CARES Act, Oglebay sought assistance through Senator Capito’s office and, as a result, was successful in securing a nearly $2 million PPP loan through local lender WesBanco that saved 554 jobs. Additionally, WesBanco, which is headquartered in Wheeling, provided $850 million in PPP loans.

“PPP has been a critical lifeline for small businesses and community assets like Oglebay, providing them with the resources needed to help keep employers and employees connected during this pandemic,” Senator Capito said. “Today’s visit was proof that businesses can not only survive during these unprecedented times, but they can also come out on the other side stronger. Oglebay’s story is an inspiring one, and I’m thrilled my office was able to help them throughout this process so West Virginians and others across the country can continue to enjoy all that this incredible venue has to offer.”

The PPP was created through the CARES Act to help small businesses pay employees and remain open during the coronavirus pandemic. As of August 8, 2020 when the PPP closed, SBA has reported that there have been approximately 18,062 approved PPP loans totaling approximately $18 billion in West Virginia.

ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND ON OGLEBAY’S PPP LOAN:

Oglebay and the Wheeling Park Commission, which is a subdivision of governments and operates Oglebay Park, have seen a slight increase in utilization of the park’s amenities during the pandemic due to the PPP loan assistance. According to the Wheeling Park Commission: 

  • Room occupancy in August is up nearly 20 percent over the previous year.
  • Golf utilization is up 10 percent despite no rounds being played during March through May because of the COVID Stay at Home orders.
  • Restaurant revenue is up 20 percent primarily due to outdoor dining options.
  • The Good Zoo experienced its best summer attendance in five years.

Photos from today’s visit are included below:

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Senator Capito tours the Oglebay grounds with Wheeling Park Commission President and CEO David Lindelow. 

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Senator Capito meets with Oglebay Park leadership and others to discuss how their PPP loan has helped during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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