West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey has announced $2.5 million in new grant funding for essential water and sewer projects in several communities across the state.
Speaking at a press conference in Welch, McDowell County, Morrisey emphasized that these investments are about more than just infrastructure—they’re about safeguarding public health and revitalizing local economies.
“We’ve been digging deep to find funding for the most deserving projects,” Morrisey said. “Clean drinking water isn’t optional—it’s a basic necessity, and these projects will make a real difference.”
Three Communities to Benefit
The grants, awarded through the state’s Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council, will fund major upgrades in Calhoun, Barbour, and McDowell counties:
- Calhoun County: The Pleasant Hill Public Service District is receiving $500,000 to help extend water lines to the communities of Cain, Big Root, and Bull River Run. The full project is expected to cost $4.5 million.
- Barbour County: The town of Junior will receive $1 million to overhaul its aging water system—including lines, meters, hydrants, and valves—impacting around 396 households. The total cost is $2.9 million.
- McDowell County: The town of Bradshaw is being awarded $1 million to address serious deficiencies in its sewer system. The $8.5 million project will also draw from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and other sources, benefiting over 100 residents.
“Every person deserves access to clean water,” said Morrisey. “These projects help ensure that our communities remain safe and open for growth.”
Supporting Long-Term Flood Recovery in McDowell
The announcement also included a renewed commitment to ongoing flood recovery efforts in McDowell County, which was hit hard by devastating storms earlier this year. Morrisey acknowledged that the path to full recovery is long but promised his office’s continued support.
“McDowell County was shaken by the February floods—lives were lost, homes were destroyed, and the pain continues,” he said. “But we’re here, and we’re not going anywhere. There should be no forgotten places in West Virginia.”
According to Morrisey, McDowell County has already received $12.8 million in federal aid from FEMA, part of the $29 million distributed statewide. Additional counties receiving FEMA assistance include Wayne, Mingo, Logan, Wyoming, Raleigh, Mercer, Lincoln, Boone, Summers, Monroe, and Greenbrier.
Action Already Underway
Since the floods, the West Virginia National Guard has removed over 17,000 tons of debris, with another 10,000 tons cleared by contractors. The Guard has also coordinated the distribution of essential supplies—food, water, cleaning products, and vaccines.
State agencies are continuing to assess and repair damages. The Department of Environmental Protection, working with the Department of Highways and the Conservation Agency, deployed seven inspection teams just last week to evaluate over 100 critical sites in McDowell County.
A Broader Infrastructure Push
Morrisey’s announcement follows a major infrastructure push that began last year under former Governor Jim Justice.
In 2023, the state awarded funding to 161 infrastructure projects, including 72 sewer systems and 61 water lines, across 51 counties. That effort was supported by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and attracted nearly $1.8 billion in private investment.
Morrisey said the ARPA funds were well-spent before he took office in January, and his team is now focused on identifying and investing in projects that will have the greatest long-term impact.
Local Voices Appreciate the Effort
McDowell County Commissioner Michael Brooks responded to recent criticisms about the pace of flood recovery, assuring residents that the state has been responsive.
“I know for a fact that the Governor’s Office has gone above and beyond,” Brooks said. “There’s a lot happening behind the scenes that people might not see, but the work is ongoing.”
As Morrisey continues touring the state and announcing new investments, his message remains clear: clean water and strong infrastructure are essential building blocks for West Virginia’s future.
“People deserve to live in safe communities with modern utilities,” Morrisey said. “We’re just getting started.”
