The West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) advises motorists to expect temporary daytime traffic disruptions along Interstate 79 in north-central West Virginia. Swank Construction will be executing localized single-lane and shoulder closures in both the northbound and southbound directions to facilitate essential highway sign installation and structural rehabilitation works.
The maintenance corridor spans from Exit 132 (South Fairmont) to Exit 135 (Pleasant Valley Road). To minimize peak commuter gridlock, operations are restricted to off-peak daytime hours, though significant congestion and delays should still be anticipated.
Project Parameters & Work Schedule
Traffic control configurations will change daily as work crews advance through various designated sign zones. Motorists should review the following operational baseline:
| Operational Parameter | Project Framework Details |
|---|---|
| Affected Corridor | Interstate 79 (Northbound and Southbound) — Segment between Exit 132 and Exit 135 |
| Effective Dates | Monday, January 19, 2026, through Friday, January 23, 2026 |
| Daily Work Window | 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. daily |
| Traffic Impacts | Temporary single-lane restrictions, shoulder closures, and intermittent rolling roadblocks |
| Prime Contractor | Swank Construction Company |
Work Zone Safety & Commuter Guidelines
The planned modifications are necessary to upgrade overhead guidance and safety signage along this critical interstate segment. Due to the proximity of workers to active travel lanes, motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution:
- Expect Rolling Roadblocks: In addition to stationary lane closures, brief rolling roadblocks may be utilized dynamically throughout the day. These slow-moving blocks are necessary to safely deploy overhead sign structures and establish initial traffic control patterns.
- Plan Aggressive Commute Buffers: Commuters traveling between Clarksburg and Morgantown should expect delays, plan alternate routes where possible, and allow extra time to safely clear the active work zone.
- Maintain Alertness: Reduce speeds immediately upon entering the cone pattern, eliminate all mobile distractions, and watch closely for flashing variable message boards and ground personnel.
Operational Note: Motorists are reminded that inclement winter weather, heavy precipitation, or unforeseen sub-surface structural discoveries could force the WVDOH and its contractors to adjust, postpone, or extend this construction schedule.
Accessibility Statement:
The West Virginia Department of Transportation will, upon request, provide reasonable accommodations including auxiliary aids and services necessary to afford an individual with a disability an equal opportunity to participate in our services, programs, and activities. Please contact us at (304) 558-3931. Persons with hearing or speech impairments can reach all state agencies by calling (800) 982-8772 (voice to TDD) or (800) 982-8771 (TDD to voice), toll free.
