In October 2001, the Kanawha Valley became the seventh community in the nation to achieve the elite Well City USA status. The primary requirement is that 20% of a community’s working population must be employed by either Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum designated Well Workplace Award winning companies.
Charleston is home to the 78th largest community health care system, including the nation’s second largest cardiac care program, a Level I trauma center and a women and children’s hospital. Regional patient capacity exceeds 1,600 beds encompassing four general acute care hospitals, two specialty hospitals and numerous clinics. The Charleston region enjoys the reputation as a leader in start-of-the-art health care facilities and specialties.
Quality of life in Charleston means a safe, clean city where residents can experience a balance between career and family. West Virginia is proud to claim one of the lowest crime rates in the United States for 24 years – from 1974 to 1998. Once again last year, fewer crimes were reported in West Virginia than in almost all other states. Only three states reported a smaller number of crimes in 2002. Charleston’s crime rate is well below the national average and those of comparable areas.
