Mabscott Bridge Replacements Move Forward as DOH Accepts Construction Bids

Mabscott Bridge Replacements Move Forward as DOH Accepts Construction Bids
The West Virginia Division of Highways is moving ahead with plans to replace two aging bridges along WV‑16 in Raleigh County, a project officials say is necessary to restore full load capacity and improve regional travel. Bids were accepted this month for the replacement of the Mabscott Overhead Bridge and the Cova Street Overhead Bridge, both of which were constructed more than sixty years ago.
The bridges, built in 1960 and 1958, currently operate under posted weight limits due to age‑related deterioration. Engineers say the structures have reached the end of their service life, and replacing them will eliminate restrictions that affect commercial traffic and emergency response routes.
The project is part of a broader effort to modernize infrastructure along WV‑16, a corridor that has grown in importance as the Coalfields Expressway expands toward Beckley. Transportation officials have said the route is expected to carry heavier traffic volumes in the coming years, making structural upgrades essential.
Once construction begins, drivers can expect periodic lane closures and detours. The Division of Highways typically phases bridge replacement work to maintain traffic flow, though full closures are sometimes required depending on site conditions.
The DOH has not yet announced a construction start date or the winning contractor. Replacement projects of this scale generally take between one and two construction seasons to complete, depending on weather and site complexity.