Clarksburg Water Board Secures $19 Million for Lead Line Replacement

The Clarksburg Water Board has been awarded $19 million in state funding for the next phase of its lead waterline replacement project, as announced by West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey on Monday. This financial support highlights the administration’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure, which is seen as essential for improving quality of life and attracting further investments in the region.

During the announcement held at the Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center, Governor Morrisey emphasized the importance of replacing lead lines that pose health risks to families in West Virginia. He noted that the funding would not only facilitate the removal of these hazardous lines but would also contribute to upgrading the system’s undersized water mains. “The upgrades are going to help strengthen fire protection — which is very important in this area,” he stated. “It’s going to modernize water meters, repair leaking lines, and, most importantly, deliver lasting improvements to the community.”

Morrisey commended the efforts of Clarksburg officials for effectively coordinating multiple construction projects within the city. He remarked on the strategic approach being taken to minimize disruptions to residents by synchronizing various upgrades. “They’re trying to open up the streets and get everything done at the same time,” he said. “You don’t have to have this back and forth — one year you’re doing water, one year you’re doing broadband, and another year you’re looking to do energy.”

Jason Myers, general manager of the Clarksburg Water Board, expressed optimism that the additional state funds would enable the utility to eliminate lead service lines ahead of the timeline set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “Part of our Corrective Action Plan with the EPA gives us a 10-year timeline to get the lead removed from the system,” Myers explained. “We’re going to be way ahead of that.”

The funds will support Phase 3B of the project, which is part of a larger $50 million initiative. Myers indicated that the project is expected to go to bid around January or February 2026, with construction anticipated to commence in June 2026. This phase aims to eradicate the remaining lead service lines, which number just over 2,400.

Currently, the ongoing work in Clarksburg constitutes Phase 3A, which involves upgrading water mains and addressing approximately 1,600 lead service lines. Myers noted that Phase 3B will focus specifically on the removal of the remaining hazardous lines.

Governor Morrisey confirmed that he finalized the details for this funding last Thursday, underscoring the administration’s prioritization of infrastructure and public safety. Myers remarked, “To turn it around that fast, you can tell where his priorities are — it’s infrastructure and the safety and welfare of the citizens of this state.”

With this significant investment, the Clarksburg Water Board is poised to enhance the safety and reliability of the water supply for its residents, reinforcing the state’s commitment to addressing public health concerns associated with lead contamination.