There’s still a great deal of excitement and intrigue surrounding Form Energy and its decision to locate its first high-volume manufacturing facility in Weirton.

Residents, no doubt, have a lot of questions about the company’s plans and what they could mean for the area. This past week, they had the chance to get some of those questions answered, as Form Energy hosted a pair of community open houses.

Company officials on Thursday and Friday met with residents, discussed the plant’s construction timeline, the types of jobs that will be created and what Form Energy hopes will be accomplished by it operating in Weirton.

A considerable number of local residents turned out for the event to find out more about Form Energy and its plans.

“I’m excited people are here,” said Ted Wiley, Form’s president and chief operating officer. “It’s really a thrill to meet the people of Weirton and get to know the community.”

Form will be moving quickly in the coming weeks, Wiley said, noting ground likely will be broken on the new plant this month.

The development of the targeted 55-acre piece of property, once home to the open hearth operations of Weirton Steel, could be the centerpiece of efforts to bring that area back to life. It will be the latest piece in the puzzle of breathing new life into the area. And with the promise of 750 new jobs, and an investment of $90 million in taxpayer funds by the state, there is a great deal at stake in this project.

Considering the criticism of the Form deal from certain legislators in the 2023 session, the company made a wise decision to introduce itself to the region and answer questions. Let us hope this open door policy continues and that Form is the right partner to help revitalize the city.