Calhoun County, W.Va. – A section of U.S. Route 33 that slipped into a nearby bank will soon be repaired, officials announced. The slip, located right on the Calhoun‑Roane county line, caused traffic disruptions and a crash earlier this week.
Emergency contract awarded
According to a press release from the West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT), GeoStabilization Inc. (GSI) received a $150,000 emergency contract to address the problem. The slip was first reported in mid‑August, but the repair was delayed while the state drafted the emergency agreement.
Repair plan
GSI will fill the slipped area with a combination of rock and earth to restore the road’s surface. Once the fill is in place, the crew will install soil nails – steel rods driven into the ground – to hold the material in place and prevent future movement. The technique is a standard geotechnical solution for stabilizing slopes and banks adjacent to highways.
Timeline and impact
The department estimates the work will take roughly four weeks to complete. During that period, drivers can expect temporary lane closures and detour signage. WVDOT officials emphasized that safety remains the top priority and that the repairs are designed to keep the highway open and reliable for the long term.
Local response
Residents of both Calhoun and Roane counties expressed relief that the state is moving quickly to fix the hazardous condition. “We’ve been worried about that spot for weeks,” said a local motorist who was involved in the Tuesday crash. “Knowing the road will be stabilized gives us peace of mind for our daily commutes.”
Why the repair matters
U.S. Route 33 is a vital east‑west corridor that connects several small towns and serves as a primary route for commercial traffic, school buses, and emergency responders. A stable roadway is essential for maintaining the flow of goods and services throughout the region, supporting both families and local businesses.
Looking ahead
The WVDOT plans to monitor the repaired section after completion to ensure the soil nails and fill remain effective. If additional issues arise, the department has pledged to act swiftly, reinforcing its commitment to keeping West Virginia’s transportation network safe and dependable.
For real‑time updates on road conditions and detour routes, drivers are encouraged to visit the WVDOT website or follow the agency’s social‑media channels.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
