PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Capito Visits Jefferson County Government Complex to Highlight Federal Investment in Public Health and Access
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Edwina Benites-LM, county administrator
Phone: (304) 728-3284
Email: edwina.c.benitesLM@jeffcowv.gov
CHARLES TOWN, WV (April 10, 2026) – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito visited the Jefferson County Government Complex at 393 North Lawrence Street this week to receive updates on the relocation and expansion of the Jefferson County Health Department—an initiative supported by $365,000 in federal funding she advocated for through the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.
During the visit, Senator Capito met with local leadership to review progress on the project and discuss the importance of continued investment in public health infrastructure. The funding was secured through Congressionally Directed Spending, a process used to prioritize community-driven projects across West Virginia.
“The work underway in Jefferson County reflects a strong commitment to protecting public health—an effort I’ve been proud to support through the Appropriations process,” Senator Capito said. “I appreciated the opportunity to receive updates on the expansion of the Jefferson County Health Department. Through the CDS process, I’ve worked to support priorities that ensure families have access to quality care. Jefferson County is making meaningful progress, and I’m proud to partner with local leaders to help advance these important initiatives.”
“Jefferson County has made public health its top priority, and Senator Capito has made this project possible. Moving and expanding the Health Department to the new Government Complex will improve public health outcomes and services for generations of Jefferson County residents. We are so grateful for Senator Capito’s support and dedication to our community.”
The move to the Government Complex represents a significant upgrade from the County’s current dispersed and space-limited facilities. By co-locating services in a modern, centralized building, the County is improving operational efficiency, enhancing service delivery, and ensuring residents have greater access to preventive care, treatment resources, and public health programming.
“This new space allows us to better serve our community both today and into the future,” said Brandon Rhodes, Director of the Jefferson County Health Department. “From expanded clinical capacity to improved accessibility, this relocation positions us to meet growing demand while delivering high-quality public health services.”
As part of the visit, County officials also highlighted recent infrastructure improvements supporting access to the site, including the groundbreaking of a new bus shelter in partnership with the Eastern Panhandle Transit Authority (EPTA). The project coincides with the creation of a new transit route and stop serving the Government Complex—expanding transportation options for residents and helping remove barriers to accessing critical services.
“Access is everything when it comes to public services,” said Louis Grindle, Deputy Director of EPTA. “By establishing a route and stop at the Government Complex, we are connecting more residents to essential services, including healthcare, in a reliable and accessible way.”
The Jefferson County Commission extends its appreciation to Senator Capito for her continued support of community-driven projects in Jefferson County, including her advocacy for this critical investment in public health infrastructure.
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