Manchin, McKinley, Capito Announce Urge Approval of I-79 Interchange Proposal in Morgantown

Washington, DC — Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-WV) sent a letter to the U.S. Department of the Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg requesting swift approval of the Interchange Justification Report for the proposed Harmony Grove Interchange in Morgantown.

“In order to ensure West Virginia’s continued economic growth and job creation, we must regularly upgrade and improve infrastructure across the state. Last year, I was proud to help secure funding for a waterline extension through the Economic Development Administration to spur new investment at the Morgantown Industrial Park. With increased traffic and investment at the site, the proposed Harmony Grove Interchange is great news for Morgantown and the region, and will bolster transportation and economic activity across the entire state. I will continue working with Secretary Buttigieg to expedite the review process and bring these crucial changes to the Harmony Grove Interchange,” said Senator Manchin.

“For too long, West Virginia has ranked last in the country due to aging roads and bridges, which has hurt our ability to be competitive in attracting new businesses, good jobs and more opportunity to the state,” said Representative McKinley. “The Harmony Grove Interchange is one example of how West Virginia can move forward and support new and expanding businesses and strengthen future economic development. This project will benefit the Morgantown Industrial Park, connect West Virginia to the rest of the country, and bring good jobs and opportunities to the region.”

“Morgantown and other communities along the I-79 corridor have seen significant growth in past years. The Harmony Grove Interchange is necessary to facilitate more economic expansion and meet truck and passenger vehicle capacity needs. Approval of this IJR is critical to ensuring the continued prosperity of the Morgantown area and helping it meet its economic potential,” said Senator Capito.

This infrastructure improvement will add exits on I-79 to provide greater access to businesses and will enhance economic activity at the Morgantown Industrial Park.