CHARLESTON, WV (WOAY) – With the 6th largest highway system in the country to maintain, West Virginia Division of Highways employees are covering ground with new equipment. New equipment received by the Department between January 2019 and June 2020 includes Gradalls, mowers, stinger cranes, dump trucks, and more.
“Thanks to the Roads to Prosperity Program, the Secondary Roads Initiative and the continued support of Governor Justice, new equipment keeps coming in,” said Deputy Secretary, Jimmy Wriston, P.E. “It will take awhile to get our inventory built out, but we are making gains.”
“Our people are really taking pride in being able to use these Gradall’s, the Roadtec pavers, and all of the new equipment,” said Jeff Pifer, Director of the Equipment Division. “With each type of new equipment that comes in, we have trainings we require our employees to take on proper care and maintenance, and getting the most out of the features of these machines. They used to spend as much time working on equipment as they did being able to use it, so they are truly grateful to have what it takes to get the job done efficiently. It makes a world of difference to them.”
WVDOH crews are out and about on the new equipment all across the state. Deputy Secretary Wriston recently joined one paving crew on Access Road near Williamstown, to drive one of the new pavers. “It’s an excellent machine,” said Wriston. “I’m impressed by the quality of the work and the pride our people are showing in getting a smooth surface. Our contracting partners will continue to work on larger roads and interstates, while our WVDOH crews tackle long neglected secondary roads, bridge approaches and projects like that.”
Citizens can search for projects in their area using the interactive roadwork map at www.transportation.wv.gov. The map was developed by WVDOH to increase transparency and the ease with which the public can access information on projects scheduled and completed.
With work continuing in all 55 counties throughout the summer, WVDOH reminds drivers to slow down in work zones to keep each other safe. “Heads up, phones down!”
