West Virginia Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, joined West Virginia transportation officials Friday to receive an update on the expansion of U.S. Route 35.
One of Capito’s priorities since being elected to Congress in 2001, the road is an important part of expanding WV/s economy.
“Residents across our region, especially in Putnam and Mason counties, have long recognized the economic and safety benefits that a four-lane Route 35 will provide,” she said. “That’s why I made Route 35 my top priority when I was first elected to Congress. Not only will this road improve the quality of life for our local residents, but it will also have a positive impact on our economy, bringing new jobs to the region. I thank Secretary White and Commissioner Wriston for joining me today to provide an update on this project, and I look forward to the day when this road is finally completed, and West Virginians can reap the benefits.”
Capito was joined by West Virginia Secretary of Transportation Byrd White, Deputy Secretary and Acting Commissioner of Highways Jimmy Wriston, and others in reviewing how the project, expected to be completed in 2021, was coming.
“We extend our appreciation to Senator Capito for her interest in this important project,” Secretary of Transportation White said. “The project will have a lasting, far-reaching impact on the people of our state and help us reach the future they deserve. For that to happen, we all need to work together.”
Capito secured more than $512 million to complete the project since being elected to Congress. Since becoming chairman of EPW, she’s also been able to secure eight times more discretionary funding for the state. As chairman, she was also integral in writing the America’s Transportation Infrastructure Act, which authorizes $287 billion over the next five years to maintain and repair America’s roads and bridges.