To Whom It May Concern:

I support the proposed bridge on McDowell Street in Welch, WV that will span over the railroad underpass and eliminate road closures during high-water events. Multiple times each year, flood waters have closed this road and made access to the hospital impossible for much of the county.  This threatens the health and well-being of many of our citizens. Additionally, since the railroad has installed additional protective barriers on their overhead tracks, numerous vehicles have struck the structure, blocking the roadway and they prevent larger transport vehicles from passing under the railroad tracks accessing most of the county. The bridge will save lives and protect the flow of commerce to McDowell County from the ever-expanding Coalfields Expressway and Route 16, regardless of the weather and water levels.  I fully support this project as a concerned citizen. 

Sincerely,