Morgantown, West Virginia
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| Morgantown, West Virginia | |
|---|---|
| Name | Morgantown |
| Settlement type | City |
| Nickname | "The University City" |
| Motto | "A City on the Move" |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | West Virginia |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Monongalia County |
| Established title | Founded |
| Established date | 1772 |
| Established title2 | Incorporated |
| Established date2 | 1838 |
| Government type | Council–Manager |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | Jenny Selin |
| Area total km2 | 27.24 |
| Area total sq mi | 10.52 |
| Area land km2 | 26.20 |
| Area land sq mi | 10.12 |
| Area water km2 | 1.04 |
| Area water sq mi | 0.40 |
| Elevation m | 293 |
| Elevation ft | 961 |
| Population total | 30,347 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Population density sq mi | auto |
| Timezone | Eastern (EST) |
| Utc offset | -5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | -4 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Codes |
| Postal code | 26501–26508 |
| Area code | 304, 681 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 54-55756 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 1555161 |
| Website | morgantownwv.gov |
Morgantown, West Virginia is the county seat of Monongalia County and the principal city of the Morgantown metropolitan area. Situated along the Monongahela River, it is best known as the home of West Virginia University, a major public research institution. The city's economy, culture, and identity are deeply intertwined with the university, creating a dynamic, youthful atmosphere within the scenic landscape of Appalachia.
History
The area was originally settled by Morgan Morgan, considered the first European-American settler in West Virginia, with the town officially founded by his son, Zackquill Morgan, in 1772. Early growth was fueled by river trade on the Monongahela River and the development of coal mining in the surrounding region. The arrival of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in the 19th century further cemented its status as a transportation and industrial hub. A pivotal moment came in 1867 with the establishment of the Agricultural College of West Virginia, which later became West Virginia University, fundamentally reshaping the city's future. Throughout the 20th century, Morgantown evolved alongside the university and became a center for energy research, notably with the development of the Morgantown Personal Rapid Transit system in the 1970s.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 10.52 square miles, characterized by steep hills and narrow valleys typical of the Allegheny Plateau. The Monongahela River flows through the city, joined by tributaries like Deckers Creek. This rugged topography has presented unique urban planning challenges, addressed in part by the innovative Morgantown Personal Rapid Transit system connecting the university's campuses. The city's layout includes distinct neighborhoods such as South Park, Suncrest, and the downtown Wharf District.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 30,347. The presence of West Virginia University creates a unique demographic profile, with a significant portion of residents being college-aged; the United States Census Bureau notes the median age is approximately 23. The population is predominantly White, with growing communities of Asian and Black residents, many affiliated with the university. The Morgantown metropolitan area encompasses all of Monongalia County and Preston County.
Economy
The economy is dominated by West Virginia University, West Virginia University Medicine, and the associated healthcare sector, which is the region's largest employer. High-tech and research and development are significant, fueled by entities like the West Virginia University Research Corporation and the federal National Energy Technology Laboratory. Retail and hospitality sectors thrive due to the student population and visitors for NCAA events, particularly Big 12 Conference games. Historically important industries like coal and glass manufacturing have diminished, though Mylan (now part of Viatris) maintained a major pharmaceutical manufacturing presence for decades.
Education
West Virginia University is the centerpiece of the city's educational landscape, a land-grant university and R1 research institution with notable programs in energy, forensic science, and health sciences. The Morgantown High School Mohigans are part of the Monongalia County Schools system. Other institutions include the West Virginia University Institute of Technology which was previously located in the city before moving to Beckley, and Monongalia County Technical Education Center.
Culture and recreation
Cultural life is heavily influenced by the university, featuring venues like the Creative Arts Center and events such as the WVU Mountaineers football games at Milan Puskar Stadium. The downtown area hosts festivals like the Morgantown Arts Walk and FallFest. Outdoor recreation is accessible via the Mon River Trail System and nearby Coopers Rock State Forest. The city has a vibrant music scene, having produced artists like Landon Tewers of The Plot In You, and is referenced in the works of novelist Jayne Anne Phillips.
Category:Morgantown, West Virginia Category:Cities in West Virginia Category:County seats in West Virginia Category:Monongalia County, West Virginia