In an article published in Development Magazine’s Spring 2026 issue, Jonah Samples discussed the Appalachian region’s attractiveness to the next generation of megaprojects through an alignment of policy, infrastructure and workforce initiatives.

“When U.S. Space Command announced in September 2025 that its permanent headquarters would be relocating to Huntsville, Alabama, many of the headlines focused on national security implications,” Samples shared. “But the decision also underscored another important development: Appalachia has become a serious contender for the nation’s most competitive investments.”

“As companies evaluate future expansions in aerospace, energy, logistics and advanced manufacturing, Appalachia is emerging as a central player,” Samples explained. “With continued investment in sites, incentives, and workforce and innovation ecosystems, the region is poised to capture a significant share of America’s next generation of megaprojects.”

You may read the full article here.