When you open Wednesday’s edition and look through the pages of the first installment of this year’s Progress Edition, you’ll find comments that say a lot about the direction the Tri-State Area is headed in.

Jefferson County Commissioner Jake Kleineke, for one, is excited about the opportunities for growth that are being seen around the region.

“I feel like we’re making steps in the right direction,” he explained while discussing development, adding that when one community scores a development hit, it creates a ripple effect that is felt across the region.

That optimism comes from numerous projects that are taking shape on both sides of the Ohio River. In Jefferson County, there’s continued expansion at the Franciscan University of Steubenville — in addition to a new building that will house numerous restaurants at Franciscan Square, the school last week announced plans for a new dormitory project along University Boulevard.

Then there is the excitement surrounding the decision of Youngstown State University to move into the complex along Sunset Boulevard in Steubenville that formerly held Eastern Gateway Community College — and plans to develop a portion of the remaining property.

On the West Virginia side of the Ohio River, Biddel Gas Compression plans an expansion at its Weirton operation, Ergon has a $00 million growth plan that will preserve 240 jobs and add 25 new ones and Current Hydro is looking to develop a hydro-electric plant at the New Cumberland Locks and Dam.

“If a company can say they’re using diverse types of energy, it makes their application look better to all the people who are going to approve the permits. It gives us an edge for development,” explained Hancock County Commissioner Eron Chek.

This year’s annual comprehensive examination of the Tri-State Area will have a different look: It will be delivered in three installments, instead of the five we’ve offered for many years. The first will come Wednesday, and it will include an overall look at the region’s economic outlook, tourism and the many factors that make our communities stand out.

On Feb. 18, the focus will be health and education, and the Feb. 25 installment will be centered on business, industry and transportation.

You’ll also find profiles about the businesses and organizations that make our communities strong and provide goods and services with that local touch.

There’s reason for optimism about the future of our area, as you will find by reading the stories in any of the three sections. At the end of the month, when you will have been able to take a collective look at all three sections, you will have been reminded that our region remains a strong, vibrant place in which to live, work, do business and raise families.

The format of our Progress Edition has changed many times over the years, but it’s goal remains the same: To carry a positive message, one that speaks well about the future — it’s one we remain happy to share.