Commissioners ‘excited’ about transportation leadership changes

Morgantown: Hope is in the air for the Monongalia County Commissioners. They’re buzzing about the recent shake-up in the West Virginia Division of Highways.

On Wednesday, they learned that Jimmy Wriston is out as the state’s transportation secretary. Governor Patrick Morrisey has appointed Todd Rumbaugh to take over. Rumbaugh has been with the WVDOH for a long time and was the deputy commissioner for construction.

Bill Austin, the Executive Director of the Morgantown Monongalia Metropolitan Planning Organization, shared that Rumbaugh is open to collaborating with local communities. That’s music to the commissioners’ ears.

Commissioner Tom Bloom is optimistic about the new leadership in Charleston and Clarksburg. He thinks it’ll be a game-changer for the county, especially with big road projects on the horizon for 2025.

“I’m excited for a revitalization of communication and a working relationship to accomplish our mutual goals,” Bloom said. He believes next year will be all about road improvements in Monongalia County.

He highlighted several key projects, like upgrades to Green Bag Road and the new access bridge to the Morgantown Industrial Park. There’s a lot happening, and it sounds like 2025 is going to be a busy year for road work.

Commissioner Sean Sikora echoed the excitement, saying they’re ready to hit the ground running with all the projects lined up.

In other news from the meeting, Granville Mayor Patty Lewis updated everyone on the University Town Centre traffic lights. These lights have been in the works since September 2021 and will cost over $1 million, shared between Granville, the county, and the developer.

Lewis mentioned that the foundation work for the traffic lights is progressing, despite some weather delays. They’re making sure everything meets the necessary standards.

Lastly, the commission approved moving forward with some properties that need attention in the county’s enforcement process. It’s a busy time for the commissioners, and they’re hopeful for what’s ahead.