All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

WVDOH uses new drill to rapidly reopen US 19 in Spanishburg

SPANISHBURG, W.Va. – Last week, the West Virginia Division of Highways reopened a 175-foot section of US 19 near Spanishburg in Mercer County.

On March 3, 2021, the road was undermined by the Bluestone River due to high water and collapsed during the night. The next morning, WVDOH sent one of its two new drills to Route 19. The drills are used to build pile walls to hold up failing embankments.

In the past, WVDOH relied on rented drills with their own crews in some areas, while in other areas contractors were the only option. Purchasing two drills for use by WVDOH crews is a step in expanding the capabilities of the Division; it will not replace contractor work, but will expand WVDOH’s overall capacity to get more projects completed more quickly.

“We really appreciate Governor Justice and his support of our people on the ground having what they need to get the job done,” said Joe Pack, District 10 Engineer.

Many areas of West Virginia, with its mountainous terrain, are prone to mudslides, slips, and flooding; problems that can occur quickly.

“We were right along the riverbank,” Pack said. “Material was falling out from under the roadway as we were working.”

Because of the danger of further collapse, Pack decided to close the section of the road while repairs were made. DOH crews built a piling wall along that section of the road and filled in the washed-out bank to stabilize the roadbed and rebuild the road above.

The road reopened on Wednesday, March 17, two days ahead of an already aggressive schedule.

“Our crews worked diligently at it and we were able to expedite it,” he said. “We have Mike Matherly and Doug Potter, the drill operators, and the rest of the crew is Harry Thomas, Ethan Webb, Ricky Doyle, Timmy Weese, and Aaron Keene. They went above and beyond.”

WVDOH saved both time and money because they were able to do the repair work in-house.

“Our guys have a vested interest in this work,” he said. “They live here and they have family here who drive the roads, so they understand the urgency.”

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Upshur County Relay for Life aims to raise $35,000 for cancer research on July 19

The Upshur County Relay for Life will host its annual event July 19 at Jawbone Park, aiming to raise $35,000 for cancer research while celebrating survivors and bringing the community together through activities and remembrance ceremonies.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital team members engage in statewide healthcare leadership program

Two WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital employees were honored by the West Virginia Hospital Association Leadership Academy, with Paula Cutright graduating and Matthew Scott selected for future participation in the statewide healthcare leadership program.

Post 7 drops outings to Doddridge and Morgantown

Buckhannon Post 7 suffered consecutive road defeats, falling 10-2 to Doddridge County and 11-0 to Morgantown Post 2, dropping their season record to 2-15.

Summer basketball league begins week two

The Upshur County Summer Basketball League entered its second week with standout performances from top scorers including Cory Harper, Dalton Hamrick, Cordell Nicola, and Vinny Snuffer leading their teams across multiple games.

Buckhannon City Council Special Meeting Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council has released the agenda for its special meeting scheduled for July 15, 2025.

BCT to light up the stage with Mamma Mia starting this weekend

Buckhannon Community Theatre will present the musical Mamma Mia! at the Colonial Arts Center starting July 12, featuring ABBA hits, lively performances, and a cast assembled from across the region.

St. Joseph’s Hospital supports healthy habits with mile-long midday walks

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital has launched a noon walk initiative, inviting staff and community members to join daily one-mile walks to promote physical activity and improve health outcomes.

John Paul Ingram

John Paul Ingram, 83, a beloved Buckhannon resident, ordained minister, and avid outdoorsman who shared his faith and kindness with many, died July 6, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Wesleyan finishes seventh in MEC Commissioners Cup standings

West Virginia Wesleyan finished seventh in the 2024-25 Mountain East Conference Commissioner’s Cup standings, while the University of Charleston captured its eighth consecutive and tenth overall title for all-around athletic excellence.