June 2nd, 2024 by WCBC Radio

Gov. Justice signed Senate Bill 1002 giving the West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) $150 million in supplemental highway funding for paving projects throughout the Mountain State.

Gov. Justice asked the Legislature to approve the extra funding during the first special legislative session in May. The money is in addition to $190 million received by the WVDOH in federal highway funds.

“Signing this bill is a huge win for our roads, our people, and West Virginia,” Gov. Justice said. “With federal funds only stretching so far, this additional $150 million means our hardworking Division of Highways crew can roll up their sleeves and tackle even more roads. I am beyond proud we got this across the finish, and I thank the West Virginia Legislature for prioritizing our roads. Now, we can keep the momentum going and continue to improve every corner of our state.”

The $150 million supplemental budget appropriation will be used exclusively for paving projects in every district in West Virginia, and will greatly increase the ability of the WVDOH to pave the roads West Virginians drive every day.

Click here for video of travel plaza progress

Gov. Justice also provided an update on renovations to the Beckley and Bluestone travel plazas on the West Virginia Turnpike, which are expected to open in time for Thanksgiving.

In February 2023, Paramount Builders LLC, of St. Albans, was awarded a contract for $122.8 million to demolish the travel plazas at Beckley and Bluestone and replace them with new, state-of-the-art facilities offering more amenities and conveniences for Turnpike travelers.