New bridge plans shared with Weirton

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State officials came to Weirton to share information concerning the new plans in store for the local bridges Wednesday as part of a public hearing held at the Weirton Millsop Community Center.

A study was conducted over a span of 10 years to address the needs of the local bridges as well as the residents in the surrounding communities. The study consisted of several options, such as not building and repairing the bridges already in place or finding a new location to build a brand new bridge.

Several sites for the new bridge include erecting a new bridge at Washington Street in Steubenville or just south of Wellsburg. The Ft. Steuben Bridge will be torn down as well.

Lovell Facemire, an environmental project manager with the West Virginia Division of Highways, said that they hoped many of the local residents would come out to hear what they had to say.

"It is important for them to understand that we will maintain the Market Street Bridge until the new one is built, however it will be closed when the new bridge is finished," Facemire stated.

Facemire also stressed that the Market Street Bridge is not unsafe at the posted weight limits and does not wish to alarm anyone.

A few local residents attended the public meeting to find out what is going to happen. Some in attendance stated they are worried about how it will affect this area but others think it will be a benefit.

Jim Zalkoski of Weirton said that he thinks it's a shame that the Ft. Steuben Bridge will be torn down.

"I do think that a new bridge in Wellsburg will be good for their local community but I wish they'd still keep the Market Street Bridge," said Zalkoski.

Officials said that this has been a long process and a long time coming. Advocates for this process wish to hear comments from the local communities about any concerns they may have. The final public meeting will take place in Brilliant, Ohio today from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

If residents are unable to attend the meeting, they can send comments and concerns to Gregory Bailey, P.E. Director, Engineering Division, West Virginia Division of Highways, State Capitol Complex, Building 5 Room 450, 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East, Charleston, WV 25305-0430.