Traffic Woes Coming to Bridgeport's Downtown Due to New Center Street Bridge Beams Being Set in Place
By Jeff Toquinto on June 02, 2026
For those tired of traffic fatigue in and around Bridgeport, Harrison County, and sections of Interstate 79 throughout North Central West Virginia, this is not what you want to hear. And if you travel along Main Street in Bridgeport, you certainly will not be elated about the news.
As activity has ramped back up on the Center Street Bridge project this week, it has led to the need for the West Virginia Division of Highways to announce a “lane closure at Center Street Bridge.” Since there is no bridge and thus no lanes, the closures will involve flaggers
directing traffic on Main Street.
directing traffic on Main Street.
The reason?
Beginning at 7 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3, and lasting until 7 p.m. Thursday, June 4, 2026, contractors will be setting new beams for the Center Street bridge. The WVDOH has announced that flaggers will be stationed on Main Street to control the flow of traffic around the bridge, as trucks will be moving on and off Main Street during this time.
Bridgeport Mayor Robert Matheny is aware it is going to create headaches and traffic backups, particularly in an area that sees heavy traffic at peak travel times daily. However, he is asking the community to be calm.
“Be patient,” Matheny asked. “It’s an unusual project that I’ve received a lot of questions on relating to timing and various other things. A lot of things there just aren’t immediate answers for because, remember, this is a state project.”
Matheny is correct. The project, despite being a city bridge, is being managed by the state and is a $1.67 million project that saw demolition begin Oct. 22, 2025. RK Construction of Frametown oversaw the demolition of the structure.
“We’re getting a new city bridge at no cost to our residents, but the price has been inconvenience,” said Matheny. “There are still a few more hurdles to jump, but the outcome will be worth the aggravation.”
The WVDOH has given notification of what will have the possibility of turning into significant traffic issues on Main Street ahead of the project. Matheny said he hopes the heads up will “help those using Main Street to comply with the DOH requests to use alternate routes if possible.”
If opting to utilize Main Street, expect delays. Motorists are advised to plan and allow additional time for their commute. Utilization of alternate routes, such as East Philadelphia Avenue, is encouraged.
Please note that inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances could change the project schedule.
The initial project competition date, according to a WVDOH official, was Nov. 15, 2026. It was noted at that time that multiple factors could change that date. Matheny said he has heard no update regarding the timeline from state officials.
Editor's Note: Photos show traffic controls in place Monday during material delivery, as well as work taking place, at the Center Street Bridge site.
