The Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has approved a bill that would remove the financial limitations on how many design build projects may be undertaken by the Division of Highways.
The bill, SB 417, was created as part of Governor Jim Justice’s infrastructure plans.
Currently, no more than $50 million a year up to an aggregate of $150 million may be expended for design build projects.
Mike Clowser, executive director of the Contractors Association of West Virginia, spoke in favor of the bill’s passage.
Tom Smith, secretary of the West Virginia Department of Transportation, was available to answer questions from committee members.
Michael Haid, executive director of the West Virginia Society of Professional Engineers, said the current road system has failed and “is getting worse,” and the bill would help to fix that.
The bill contains a second reference to Senate Finance once reported to the floor.
The committee is recessed until 10 minutes after Senate Finance and Senate Judiciary adjourn this evening.
