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Speedway Motors coming to Jefferson County

By Toni Milbourne - For the Chronicle | Jan 8, 2021

KEARNEYSVILLE — Gov. Jim Justice announced Monday that Speedway Motors will be locating a distribution center in Kearneysville. The company, founded in 1952, is a family owned business started by “Speedy” Bill Smith, providing a broad selection of high-quality, affordable automotive parts delivered quickly and efficiently.

The company worked with the West Virginia Development Office and the Jefferson County Development Authority to finalize the move to the Burr Industrial Park at the former Royal Vendors location.

“We are excited Speedway Motors has selected Jefferson County as their new parts distribution and manufacturing facility, bringing new jobs to the area,” said JCDA Executive Director Dennis Jarvis in a recent press release. “Speedway Motors is a family-owned operation committed to quality products and outstanding service.”

“I thank everybody who worked really hard to make this happen,” Gov. Justice said on Monday. “I’m a business guy. I’m not a politician. Truly, I’ve run small businesses for our family my entire life before taking this job. I know what family businesses are, and I know what a commitment and how difficult of a decision it had to have been to come all this way to West Virginia.

“But in all of that, I want you to know that we’re not going to let you down. You’re going to be really happy with this decision, and, absolutely, I want you to feel like you can call on me at any time,” Justice said.

Clay Smith, president/owner of Speedway Motors, expressed his excitement about finding a home in West Virginia.

“West Virginia is very business friendly and I’d like to thank you, [Governor Justice], for your kind words, and also to the entire West Virginia Legislature for creating such a business-friendly environment,” Smith told Justice during Monday’s announcement. “West Virginia, to us, already feels like home, where — together — we can just get this done. We love your attitude and we’re glad to be in the Mountain State.”

Speedway Motors will bring 25 new jobs to Jefferson County. Hiring for those positions will take place in January and February. Positions include human resources, warehouse and maintenance positions. More information on the jobs can be found on the company website.

“It’s great to welcome a new business to West Virginia and Jefferson County,” said Jefferson County Commissioner Josh Compton. “With Summit Point Motor Sports Park already in the county, what better than to have a family-owned business and American’s Oldest Speed Shop for hot rod parts and racing parts join them.”

“Anytime we can create jobs for the residents of Jefferson County it’s a good day,” said newly-elected Jefferson County Commissioner Steve Stolipher. “It is especially nice because they were able to use an existing building in the county.”