West Virginia plans to advertise a request for qualifications for the first P3 project under the state’s recently enacted legislation for a 3.3 mile segment of the Coalfields Expressway.
“A solid infrastructure helps provide our communities with additional economic development opportunities, and the public-private partnership concept is a great example of how state government and the private sector can work together to improve the quality of life for our residents,” said Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin (D) said in a statement.
The Coalfields Expressway project is multi-lane expressway connecting the I-64/I-77 interchange at Beckley, W.Va. and U.S. 23 near Grundy, Va.
“Our state is breaking new ground with this partnership agreement,” said Rep. Nick Rahall (D). “It is most welcome news for the Coalfields Expressway, but it is equally promising news for other highway projects as well. Innovative financing is a true asset in attracting every available federal and other funding dollar to build our highways and the jobs that come with them.”
The state legislature passed Senate Bill 190 authorizing P3s in their 2013 session and it took effect on July 1, 2013.