Sewer project could open I-81 corridor for business

December 11, 1998|By BRYN MICKLE

MARTINSBURG, W.Va. - Construction could start next May on a sewer project expected to open up hundreds of millions of dollars in development potential for southeastern Berkeley County, officials said.

Walt Sebert, the general manager of the Berkeley County Public Service Sewer District, said $29 million in state funds have been approved for 60 miles of sewer line and two treatment plants.

The project will open up the Interstate 81 corridor from Inwood to Exit 8 for the development of subdivisions, industrial areas and malls, he said.

Sebert said the project is part of a $70 million overall plan that will serve 6,000 sewer customers and open up the I-81 corridor to development from Martinsburg to Virginia.

Each of the three phases will serve about 2,000 customers and is expected to take one year for construction, he said.

Sebert said the district is also starting a study for a $50 million to $70 million sewer expansion project along I-81 between Martinsburg and Maryland. Construction on that project could begin in 2000 or 2001, he said.

Berkeley County Commission President Jim Smith said the sewer expansion project would benefit the entire county.

"It's the best news for all of Berkeley County," Smith said. "It will correct major health problems and a provide for a lot of growth, both residential and industrial."

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