BHJ director reports on bridge, brownfield efforts

The Brooke-Hancock-Jefferson Metropolitan Planning Commission announced a significant $87. 5 million funding award for the replacement of the Market Street Bridge. At a recent Brooke County Commission meeting, BHJ Executive Director Mike Paprocki highlighted the funding from the Federal Highway Administration's Large Bridge Investment Program, alongside $52. 5 million from the West Virginia Department of Transportation. HDR Engineering has been selected to conduct necessary preliminary environmental studies to comply with federal regulations.

Additionally, Paprocki detailed plans to utilize a $1. 2 million EPA grant for environmental cleanups at multiple industrial sites, including former Weirton Steel property and land near Beech Bottom. This grant, one of 30 awarded in the region, requires no local match and aims to revitalize contaminated locations. The commission is also reforming its advisory council for the county's emergency 911 center, which has been inactive. New members will serve staggered terms, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance local emergency services.

Paprocki expressed hope for further project developments by June, underscoring the importance of these initiatives for local infrastructure and economic growth.