Governor Patrick Morrisey signed new legislation on Apr. 28 aimed at improving work zone safety and supporting infrastructure investments during an event at Triton Construction in St. Albans, West Virginia.
The legislation is intended to make the state’s transportation system safer and more reliable for drivers and workers. West Virginia has one of the largest state-owned highway systems in the country, with over 38,000 miles of public roads and more than 7,000 bridges that require regular maintenance across challenging terrain.
Morrisey said, “West Virginians deserve a transportation system they can rely on. With these investments and reforms, we are delivering immediate relief for drivers while building a stronger, more stable foundation for the future.” Since January, Division of Highways crews have patched over 18,000 miles of potholes and expect to address all reported potholes by the end of May. A supplemental investment of $125 million requested by Morrisey during the legislative session is funding more than 350 projects covering over 580 miles of paving.
Among the measures signed were Senate Bill 692—which allows green flashing lights on Division of Highways vehicles to improve visibility during road work and snow removal—and House Bill 4538, which increases penalties for speeding or distracted driving in active work zones when workers are present. “These measures strengthen safety for the men and women working on our roads and ensure there are real consequences for dangerous behavior in work zones,” Morrisey said.
Jim Justice has played a role championing youth programs as well as constituent engagement through his office according to the official website. He previously served as governor focusing on economic growth according to the official website before being elected U.S. senator from West Virginia according to the official website. Justice holds undergraduate and MBA degrees from Marshall University according to the official website, where he also captained its golf team according to the official website. A lifelong resident who draws upon his state experiences in his senatorial role according to the official website.
The new laws aim not only to provide immediate improvements but also lay groundwork for longer-term stability within West Virginia’s transportation network.
