CHARLESTON, W.Va – The Star City interchange at Interstate 79 in Morgantown is now officially named the “Michael A. Oliverio, Sr. Interchange.”
“I am happy that we were able to make this happen,” said Senator Bob Beach (D-Monongalia) in making the announced Friday, Sept. 12. “Mr. Oliverio was a kind gentleman who dedicated his life to the betterment of the global community, receiving over forty exceptional honors and achievements. Knowing Mr. Oliverio added quality to my life.”
The Star City Interchange is at Exit 155 on I-79. Beach said the West Virginia Department of Highways will remove the draping currently on the interstate signs, revealing the official name change.
Michael Oliverio, Sr. was a distinguished counselor, statesman, educator and civic leader in Monongalia County. Oliverio, a native of Carolina, WV and a graduate of Fairmont State College and West Virginia University, dedicated his life to helping fellow West Virginians.
“Monongalia County is a better place thanks to the work of Michael Oliverio, Sr.,” says Delegate Anthony Barill (D-Monongalia). “He is responsible for many great projects, including the Ronald McDonald House, and will be most remembered for his work in the fields of rehabilitation and counseling. He was a great man.”
Oliverio served the people as County Clerk for Monongalia County. He was also instrumental in building relationships between West Virginia and the Calabria region of Italy, including starting an exchange student program and a sister cities partnership between Clarksburg, WV and San Giovanni in Fiori, Italy. Oliverio is survived by four children, including former State Senator Michael Oliverio, Jr.
“On behalf of my family, I would like to say a special thank you to Senate President Jeff Kessler, House Speaker Tim Miley, Senator Bob Beach and Delegate Tony Barill for spearheading the passage of the resolution that led to the renaming of the interchange in honor of my father,” says Oliverio. “We are honored to see our father recognized in this public way and proud of all his accomplishments. This is such a wonderful tribute to a great man.”
