WHEELING — Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced a $2 million grant Tuesday to modernize water infrastructure in Ohio County, targeting several long-standing needs in the county’s water system. The funding from the West Virginia Water Development Authority’s Economic Enhancement Grant Fund will support four projects in partnership with the Ohio County Public Service District, according to a statement released from the governor’s office.
“Safe, reliable drinking water is something no community should ever have to worry about,” Morrisey said. “Today, we are taking decisive action to ensure families, students, and businesses in Ohio County have the water system they deserve.”
The projects include maintenance and recoating of the 500,000-gallon Cabela Elevated Water Storage Tank, installation of aeration mixing systems to reduce disinfection byproducts, replacement of about 5,300 feet of aging water main along Route 88 in West Liberty and upgrades to the West Liberty water tank to improve water circulation.
The Route 88 project will replace a 12-inch cast iron line installed in the 1960s that has experienced recurring breaks and service disruptions affecting residents and West Liberty University. The governor also credited Ohio County PSD Chairman Randy Wharton and the engineering firm Vaughn, Coast & Vaughn for helping identify the infrastructure needs and work with the state on the improvements. The announcement comes as West Virginia continues investments in infrastructure and economic development across the state.
