Governor Patrick Morrisey announced on April 14 a proposal for a $4.34 million waterline upgrade and replacement project for the Weirton Water Board, highlighting the importance of infrastructure to support West Virginia’s recent economic growth.
The initiative is intended to address aging water infrastructure along Zeta Street, Mildren Avenue, and Walnut Street by replacing 3,500 feet of existing 12-inch piping with new 18-inch lines. According to Morrisey, these upgrades are essential as “the ‘West Virginia Comeback’ is no longer a slogan; it is a reality,” adding that “you can’t support $12.75 billion in new investment without the ‘plumbing’ to support it. Economic growth and infrastructure are two sides of the same coin.”
The project aims to stabilize the distribution system, reduce pipe bursts, and protect investments made in the Weirton Water Treatment Plant. Planned improvements include rightsizing infrastructure by upgrading lines for better flow and efficiency, focusing on maintenance over bureaucracy, restoring roads after construction work, and securing joint funding from both the Economic Enhancement Grant Fund and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Local expansions such as Bidell Gas Compression’s $7 million investment are among those expected to benefit from these upgrades. The enhancements also seek to accommodate an influx of new families moving into Northern Panhandle communities.
Senator Jim Justice has been involved in championing youth programs and constituent engagement through his office according to the official website. Justice previously served as governor of West Virginia with a focus on economic growth according to the official website, before being elected as U.S. senator from West Virginia according to the official website. He earned both an undergraduate degree and an MBA from Marshall University according to the official website, where he also captained the golf team according to the official website. Justice has drawn upon his lifelong residency in West Virginia throughout his public service career according to the official website.
As state leaders continue efforts toward modernizing critical infrastructure, observers expect further initiatives designed to strengthen local economies while maintaining essential services.