This bill aims to enhance the maintenance and management of roads and infrastructure in West Virginia by establishing a county and municipal orphan road program. It allows counties and municipalities to acquire and maintain roads and bridges that are not currently managed by any governmental entity, referred to as "orphan roads and bridges." The bill outlines the criteria for designating these orphan roads and bridges, the procedures for their identification, and the necessary public notification and transparency measures. Additionally, it authorizes funding sources for the acquisition and maintenance of these roads and bridges, including existing infrastructure funds, state and federal grants, and partnerships with private entities.

Furthermore, the bill introduces the concept of Infrastructure Only Common Ownership Associations, which can be formed by homeowners to manage specific infrastructure elements such as roadways, utilities, and drainage systems. It establishes guidelines for the creation, management, and termination of these associations, ensuring uniformity with existing laws. The bill also mandates the West Virginia Division of Highways to create an online map of state roads by July 1, 2026, to improve public access to information regarding road maintenance and management. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve infrastructure management and enhance community involvement in maintaining essential roadways and services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-13B-1, 8-13B-2, 8-13B-3, 8-13B-4, 8-13B-5, 8-13B-6, 8-13B-7