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MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — A 256-acre sports, recreation, and tourism complex could be coming to Berkeley County.

On Friday, The Berkeley County Development Authority unveiled Project Allstar, saying it will drive new investment, jobs, and visitors to the Eastern Panhandle and the state as a whole.

BCDA Director Jennifer Smith talked about the project this week on Panhandle Live. She called it a “sports tourism convention center project that we’ve developing for over a year.” It would be located off Exit 8 in the Tabler Station Road area.

The BCDA has been working on the idea for about a year. So far, there are plans for eight basketball courts that could convert into 16 volleyball courts, pickleball, or “whatever else you would like to play,” Smith said.

The center, which could hold 4,000 people, will serve as a Convention Center as well, according to Smith. “We’re looking at flex fields as well, flag football, soccer, baseball.”

The complex would be located west of I-81 and feature state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, recreational fields, and community event spaces.

The BCDA has been working with a sports facility company to move the project forward.

The development authority projects the complex will generate “more than 100,000 hotel room nights annually, support 300+ jobs, and produce an annual economic impact exceeding $60 million within its first decade of operation.”

The complex will also feature a 12,000-square-foot Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Clinic as part of a partnership with WVU Medicine that could host 30 to 40 healthcare professionals and bring on-site care for athletes with year-round wellness and rehabilitation capabilities.

“Project Allstar represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Berkeley County and West Virginia,” Smith said in announcing the complex. “It will not only enhance the quality of life for our residents but will establish our region as a true destination for sports, healthcare, and tourism. It’s a smart investment that leverages local, state, and private resources to create lasting value while expanding the tax base without placing new burdens on our school system.”

“This is about creating opportunity — for our youth, for our businesses, and for the entire state,” added Smith. “We look forward to working closely with the Governor’s Office and the West Virginia Department of Economic Development to bring Project Allstar to life.”

Martinsburg, West Virginia is blessed with some great hiking opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk in the woods, or a challenging climb to a mountain overlook there’s a trail just for you.

For a peaceful walk in the woods it’s hard to beat the Tuscarora Trail. The Tuscarora is a 250 mile-long spur trail of the Appalachian Trail with trailheads near Luray, Virginia and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Much of the 33 miles in West Virginia is located within the Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA), and the light blue blazes in the Tuscarora Trail system are located along a number of footpaths, including the Meadow Branch Trail, Old Still Trail, Beacon Trail, Pee Wee Point Trail, and Brush Creek Trail.

The Beacon Trail leads you up a rugged path to the fire tower and on to the Pee Wee Point Trail. Pee Wee Point is a picturesque setting at the end of the mountain perfect for photo-worthy moments. After leaving Beacon Trail, the blue-blazed section of the Pee Wee Point Trail goes on a fairly long downhill course. Anyone looking to get away from the crowds on many of the local trails would enjoy this hike.

One of the most beautiful short hikes in Sleepy Creek WMA is Devil’s Nose. This hike takes you down rugged trails to Meadow Branch along a stretch with numerous rapids, rock formations, a waterfall, and ten-foot high blooming rhododendrons in spring.

The WV Route 9 Bike Path follows the busy thoroughfare from Martinsburg to the Charles Town/Ranson area. It is a popular path for power walking or bike riding, with stops along the way highlighting points of interest.

After a day of hiking, explore the local spirits around the county. Relax and enjoy a refreshing bourbon sweet tea at Black Draft Distillery, celebrated for its agri-tourism vibe. What once began as a family horse farm is now serving up good times with moonshine. Black Draft produces whiskey and bourbon using unique and all-natural ingredients sourced less than 10 miles away. Try seasonal flavors at this locally owned distillery! Be sure to take a tour and sample tastings, as they host various events throughout the year in their charming farm buildings and various outdoor entertainment spaces.

If you prefer beer, head to Amani Brewing, the county’s only brewery, where you can enjoy a great craft beer in their beautiful taproom or relax outside in the fenced-in area. For wine lovers, The Rusty Nail Winery offers a unique small farm experience with different grape varieties and warm hospitality right in Martinsburg.

The perfect way to finish the night is The Young American – Martini Bar & Lounge in downtown Martinsburg. A stylish martini bar inspired by jazz-era elegance. Young American offers expertly crafted cocktails, live music, and an inviting atmosphere perfect for a night out.

Poor House Farm Park is a county-owned park that consists of 225 acres, which includes five miles of biking and hiking trails traversing wooded hills and valleys and wrapping around a well-stocked pond.