County Commission secures $54M federal grant for Exit 155 reconstruction project

The Monongalia County Commission meeting on July 9, 2025, focused on significant developments regarding the reconstruction of Exit 155, a major transportation project aimed at improving traffic flow and safety in the region. The meeting highlighted the collaboration between the County Commission, the West Virginia Department of Highways (DOH), and local stakeholders to advance this critical infrastructure initiative.

The project will transform Exit 155 into a diverging diamond interchange, replace aging bridges, and construct a two-lane flyover to alleviate congestion, particularly during peak traffic times and major events at West Virginia University. This flyover will allow westbound traffic to bypass the busy intersection at Route 19, Maud Boulevard, and Chapel Hill Road, enhancing access for commuters and event-goers alike.

A key aspect of the meeting was the announcement of a $54 million grant awarded to the county from the U.S. Department of Transportation's MEGA program. This funding is crucial for the project's estimated total budget of approximately $135 million. The grant, which was secured with support from local officials and state senators, underscores the project's regional significance and the need for federal assistance in addressing local transportation challenges.

The agreement reached during the meeting outlines the financial contributions from various parties, with the DOH providing about 50% of the funding, while the County Commission and Westridge will cover approximately 10%. The local entities have committed to funding pre-construction activities and will continue to support the project financially over the next five years.

The collaboration agreement also establishes a steering committee to oversee the project's progress, ensuring effective communication and coordination among all stakeholders. A project website will be launched to keep the public informed about developments, traffic impacts, and opportunities for community input.

Overall, the meeting marked a significant step forward in addressing transportation needs in Monongalia County, with local leaders expressing optimism about the project's potential to enhance connectivity and support regional growth. The next steps involve finalizing the collaboration agreement and engaging with the U.S. Department of Transportation to move the project toward groundbreaking.