Chester preparing for $3 million paving project

HANCOCK COUNTY, W.Va. ( WTRF ) – Chester residents and those who pass through the small town should expect some construction on side streets and alleys in the next two weeks.

Mayor Ed Wedgewood tells 7News the city secured $3 million from the state to re-pave all city operated streets.

“We received funds in conjunction with our delegate, Pat McGeehan. The city worked with the state to find a way to get some funds to set aside for this project so that we can have some economic development up here in the northern part of the state.”

Mayor Ed Wedgewood | City of Chester

Mayor Wedgewood says the city has slowly been able to repair some side streets, like 6th street.

The focus of this upcoming project will be on the side streets and alleys that have not seen any kind of concrete resurfacing.

He mentioned some residents have asked about repairs to Carolina Avenue but says the city cannot do anything since it is a state route.

Along with side streets and alleys, the parking lot of the municipal building is getting re-paved as well.

“Our roads haven’t been paved properly in the past 30 years or so. We’ve been relying on patching and cold patch to basically get by. It’s a huge uplift for the town, not only in lifting the spirits of the people that are here, but hopefully raising some of the property values in the process. [We hope it will] also attract people to come into town, maybe start a business and move our city economy forward.”

Mayor Ed Wedgewood | City of Chester

The project is expected to begin in September and will last around six to eight weeks depending on weather conditions.

Mayor Wedgewood wants to remind residents and those who pass through Chester to remain patient once the paving begins.

“We ask people to be kind and patient. No one is purposely going to hold you up. And delays aren’t going to be sprung on anyone last minute. We will let everyone know ahead of time what streets are being worked on so they can plan accordingly.”

Mayor Ed Wedgewood | City of Chester

There will be a meeting on Aug. 23 to discuss the schedule for street/alley paving. To stay up to date, stay with 7News and follow City of Chester Facebook page by clicking or tapping here .

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