The West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) has reduced the speed limit and made other safety enhancements along the Interstate 64 and Interstate 77 corridor in Charleston to improve overall motorist safety in anticipation of next year's construction work on the Eugene Carter Bridge.
Reduced Speed Limits
Effective immediately, speed limits through the corridor have been lowered to 50 mph. Updated speed limit signage was installed Thursday, October 22, 2026. The reduced speed zone applies to the following areas:
Northbound/Westbound I-77 and I-64: Beginning approximately at the 35th/36th Street bridges.
Southbound I-77: Beginning at Westmoreland Road.
Eastbound I-64: Beginning between the Montrose Drive and Oakwood Road exits.
Surface Treatment and Enhanced Signage
High-friction surface treatment will be laid down in several locations beginning Monday, October 26, 2026, weather permitting. This work will be performed during daytime hours, and motorists are advised to expect minor travel delays.
Additional warning signs have also been installed. These improvements include chevron alignment signs clearly delineating sharp curves, as well as advisory signs reinforcing the recommended 50 MPH speed limit..
Long-Term Infrastructure and Safety Review
The WVDOT is also looking at ways to make the barrier walls higher in the area. A traffic study of the corridor will also be underway.
Law Enforcement Coordination
The WVDOT is working closely with West Virginia State Police and Charleston Police Department to increase law enforcement presence in the area to enforce the new 50 mph speed limit.
The WVDOT urges drivers to observe posted speed limits, avoid the use of cell phones, and drive appropriately for road conditions on all Mountain State roads.
