The proposed bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by establishing a county and municipal orphan road and bridge acquisition program, allowing local governments to acquire and maintain roads and bridges that are not currently managed by any governmental entity. The bill outlines specific criteria for designating roads and bridges as "orphan," including their existence as of January 1, 2025, public accessibility, and lack of maintenance by any governmental agency. It also mandates the development of an identification program by the West Virginia Division of Highways, which will assist counties and municipalities in identifying orphan roads and bridges through reports or an online Geospatial Information Systems map.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for public notification and transparency regarding the acquisition of orphan roads and bridges, requiring local governments to inform the public through various means before undertaking any improvements. It authorizes funding for the acquisition, repair, and maintenance of these roads and bridges through existing infrastructure funds, state and federal grants, and partnerships with private entities. Furthermore, the bill establishes Infrastructure Only Common Ownership Associations, detailing their creation, management, and scope, which includes administering common roadways and access to utilities.

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