The proposed bill, known as the "West Virginia River Access and Bridge Modernization Act," aims to enhance public safety and access to navigable waterways in connection with bridge projects. It establishes a framework for evaluating river access during substantial bridge projects, requiring the West Virginia Division of Highways to assess the feasibility of creating public river access facilities. The bill emphasizes the importance of safety and design standards, prohibits the use of eminent domain for acquiring property for these facilities, and allows for voluntary property acquisition to improve public safety. Additionally, it mandates the installation of informational signage to enhance user orientation and safety.

The legislation also outlines the division's authority to coordinate with various governmental agencies and apply for grants to support the development of public river access facilities. It includes provisions for limiting liability for the division and private property owners regarding injuries at these facilities, ensuring that the division's responsibilities do not exceed those imposed by general law. Finally, the bill requires a legislative review within five years of enactment to assess its implementation and safety outcomes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17-4B-1, 17-4B-2, 17-4B-3, 17-4B-4, 17-4B-5, 17-4B-6, 17-4B-7, 17-4B-8, 17-4B-9, 17-4B-10, 17-4B-11, 17-4B-12, 17-4B-13, 17-4B-14
Committee Substitute: 17-4B-1, 17-4B-2, 17-4B-3, 17-4B-4, 17-4B-5, 17-4B-6, 17-4B-7, 17-4B-8, 17-4B-9, 17-4B-10, 17-4B-11, 17-4B-12, 17-4B-13, 17-4B-14