The Philippi Covered Bridge is undergoing renovations and is currently closed.
PHILIPPI, W.Va. — The historic Philippi Covered Bridge is undergoing some significant renovations and may not reopen for roughly a year, said spokesman Brent Walker with the West Virginia Department of Transportations.
“We’re doing some structural framing,” Walker said. “We’re painting the steel beams. We’re replacing some of the siding and working on a fire repellant system. It really runs the gambit. It’s an overhaul of sorts.”
He said construction costs are just over $2 million, and Orders Construction is the contractor working on the project.
Walker said the work began in June, and the bridge was closed to traffic at that time. The sidewalk which runs parallel to the bridge also is closed due to safety concerns.
Traffic can reroute into town through the Blue and Gold Expy, a route known locally as the “express way” or “Philippi bypass.”
Traffic also can enter town through Maple Avenue, and turn right onto North Walnut Street to cross the Tygart Valley River. Walker said the bridge will remain closed for construction until the project finishes.
“We hope to have it completed by the Blue and Gray Reunion…
