For many the beginning of 2009 means it's time to look to the future. With 2008 ending with the nation in an economic recession, looking ahead may be more important than ever this year.

The mayor's of both Parkersburg and Marietta are cautiously optimistic heading into 2009.

Michael Mullen, Marietta Mayor: "Well it's been a challenging year and we've had to tighten our belts just like you have in your home or your business and government is going to have to operate with ever decreasing resources."

2008 meant consolidations in Marietta with three departments turning into one. Mayor Michael Mullen says that belt tightening will continue into the new year.

Michael Mullen, Marietta Mayor: "We're prepared with a good plan going forward. No cut in services. Actually we've got some great

Along with those street projects Mayor Mullen says the city will be adding 2 more miles to the multi-use river trail. In Parkersburg it's what's under the streets that has officials hoping for federal funding from a proposed stimulus package.

Bob Newell, Parkersburg Mayor: "We have a list of things that we could go to bid tomorrow on. Major items that could create a lot of jobs and at the same time improve Parkersburg's infrastructure, mostly in the area of stormwater management."

Mayor Newell says they'll also be working on community based projects to help make the city a great place to stay around if residents can't afford to travel this year.

Bob Newell, Parkersburg Mayor: "We're still looking pretty strong for 2009 of course we'll know more in 6 or 8 months. But right now we seem to be holding our own. I'm optimistic things will go as well in 2009 as they had in 2008 for our community."

Aside from community projects, Mayor Newell says Parkersburg could see some additional jobs come to the city in 2009. That's with the expected completion of the new Blue Cross Blue Shield building and the possibility of a downtown campus for WVU-P.