WKKX EDITORIAL NO. 94
(Route 2 and I-68)
Two major highways in northern and central West Virginia which are vital to residents and our future economy continue to be stymied by Governor Manchin. They are Route 2 from Parkersburg to Chester and I-68 from Morgantown to Moundsville.
Governor Manchin has placed no priority on these projects, which are being ignored despite a 30 percent increase in federal funds to the State and a projected $100 million surplus from State collections in 2007. This wilful neglect by our Governor ignores the needs and benefits these highways represent.
Route 2 and I-68 bisect or adjoin 33 of our 55 counties with over one-third of our State’s residents. Route 2 is the only north-south highway that runs the entire length of the State and is entirely within State borders. I-68 would be the only east-west interstate link to the Ohio River between Wheeling and Charleston.
Governors Underwood and Wise and leaders in the Legislature initiated upgrades as priorities. More than $100 million were invested and vital links of Route 2 constructed. Those 6 years of progress came to a screeching halt with the election of Manchin, who continues to ignore the Northern Panhandle’s needs.
Governor Manchin found $162 million to invest in Route 35 in Putnam County and an estimated $170 million to invest in Route 9 in Martinsburg. Governor Manchin’s story that there are no funds available evidently only applies to us here in the Northern Panhandle.
In 2009, a less than one-mile segment in Marshall County is planned, but this is a pittance compared to Putnam County and Martinsburg’s $300+ million commitment.
When you vote for governor in November, remember that Manchin is not sending the money to us here in the Northern Panhandle.
