The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 17-4-8a, which focuses on the coordination between utilities and the Division of Highways regarding road paving and utility work. It mandates that utilities provide annual reports detailing their planned projects that will disturb paved roads, including construction timelines and any relevant grants. The Division of Highways is required to review these reports and make the information available on its website, including a map of districts and a list of planned paving activities.

Additionally, the bill allows utilities to opt out of the reporting requirement if they do not have any plans to improve or replace road assets in the next two years. It also clarifies that the Division of Highways can still perform necessary maintenance on roads scheduled for utility work and that utilities are responsible for repairing any damage caused to paved roads during their projects, following established guidelines. The provisions of this bill aim to enhance communication and planning between utilities and the state to minimize disruptions to newly paved roads.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17-31-1, 24-9-1
Committee Substitute: 17-4-8a
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 17-4-8a