It's a disappointment that the first announcement about a cracker plant places it in Pennsvlvania. But despite what some critics are saying it is not some kind of death knell.
First, there is a distinct possibility that more than one company will build a cracker. There are at least 2 other companies who have been considering one. So the Mountain State and/or Eastern Ohio may yet see construction.
Second, the effects of the cracker are likely to be so huge that it is inevitable the spin-off will make its way across the border into WV. Large numbers of construction workers will be needed and it seems entirely likely many will come from our area. The state border doesn't stop potential employees from applying and being hired when construction is complete. And there are going to be a lot of down stream jobs, ancillary services, and even brand new companies spingting up to service the cracker that could easily be part of the Mountain State.
Ohio Governor John Kasich likely had a heads up about Shell's decision--in Southeastern Ohio this week he significantly downplayed the possibility of an Ohio cracker. WV Governor Earl Ray Tomblin has been pointing out that the large amount of immediately available land needed just wasn't available in the Mountain State.
GOP critics have already begun to tout "Tomblin's failure" on the cracker.
Congressman Dave McKinley calls the Pennsylvania decision "puzzling" and says there is a need for greater cooperation on enticing such a plant.
Senator Joe Manchin mentions the possibility of more than one cracker and also stresses that mny jobs could be created FOR West Virginians no matter where it's located.
Jay Rockefeller calls it a "setback".
The gas industry is a huge and growing part of the local economy. A cracker would indeed have been "the crown jewel" but officials now need to focus their efforts on the next step of success in developing the Shale economy.
In the midst of the hustle and bustle and of your busy morning, take a minute to reflect each day on the bigger picture.
