CHARLESTON, W.Va. — State transportation officials say they are taking immediate steps to improve safety around the Interstate 77/Interstate 64 split in Charleston following a series of recent crashes, including a fatal incident on August 21.
West Virginia Transportation Secretary Stephen Todd Rumbaugh said engineers have been developing a project to install high‑friction surface treatment on several elevated portions of the interstate. The treatment is designed to improve traction and reduce the likelihood of vehicles leaving the roadway. Rumbaugh said the upgrades are expected to be installed later this fall.
The Division of Highways is also working closely with the Charleston Police Department to monitor crash activity in the area and determine whether additional safety measures are needed as investigations continue.
Rumbaugh noted that roadway safety depends on multiple factors, including engineering, driver behavior, vehicle condition, and emergency response. “None is more important than the others,” he said.
He urged drivers to follow posted speed limits, buckle up, and avoid impaired or distracted driving.
“It takes all of us to prevent tragedies on our roadways; you do your part and we will keep working hard to do ours,” Rumbaugh said.
