Revitalizing Hinton's Southern Gateway: Updates on the State Route 20 Culvert and Future Plans
- JimLeslie2020
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
The recent collapse of the culvert on State Route 20 at 17th Avenue in Hinton caused significant disruption to traffic and local infrastructure. Now, the West Virginia Department of Highways (WVDOH) District 9 engineers report that the project is nearing completion. The new culvert is fully operational, and the old one remains closed. This development marks a crucial step in restoring safe and efficient access to Hinton, especially as the city serves as the southern gateway to The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and many of Summers County’s natural and historic attractions.
Culvert Replacement Progress and Current Status
The collapsed culvert had posed a serious hazard, forcing closure and rerouting of traffic. WVDOH District 9 engineers have worked closely with the contractor to finalize the project. The remaining tasks involve “punch list” adjustments—minor fixes and finishing touches to ensure everything meets safety and quality standards.
The newly constructed culvert now supports good water flow, preventing future blockages or flooding risks. This improvement is vital for maintaining the integrity of State Route 20, a key artery for residents and visitors alike.
Plans to Improve the Route 20 and Summers Street Intersection
Hinton’s Mayor Jack Scott and the City Council are collaborating with WVDOH engineers to explore ways to reduce the sharp curve on Route 20 as it approaches Summers Street. This curve has long been a concern for drivers due to limited visibility and tight turning radius.
While the preliminary concept drawing for future intersection improvements does not include changes to the curve, the city and WVDOH remain open to adjustments if feasible. One challenge is that WVDOH no longer permits grassy or planted areas within state route intersections, limiting landscaping options that might soften the curve visually or physically.
The plan is to pave the intersection this fall. This timing allows for necessary ground-level adjustments before final surfacing, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience.
Enhancing the Southern Gateway Experience
The intersection at Route 20 and Summers Street is more than just a traffic point. It serves as the southern gateway to several of Summers County’s most treasured destinations:
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Hinton Historic District
The New River and Greenbrier River
Sandstone Falls
Pipestem Resort Park
Bluestone State Park, Lake, and Dam
Recognizing this, the City of Hinton plans to create a “WELCOME TO HINTON/SUMMERS COUNTY” view shed on city property near the intersection. This site once housed buildings for the Hinton Police Department and Department of Defense contractors, which were removed following the culvert collapse.
The view shed will provide visitors with a warm welcome and a visual introduction to the natural beauty and history of the area. It will also serve as a landmark that highlights Hinton’s role as a gateway to outdoor recreation and cultural heritage.
What Residents and Visitors Can Expect Next
With the culvert replacement nearly complete and intersection paving scheduled for fall, the community can look forward to safer and more attractive roadways. The collaboration between WVDOH and Hinton’s city officials shows a commitment to both infrastructure and community pride.
The final design for the intersection and view shed remains flexible. Public input and engineering assessments will guide any changes, especially regarding the curve on Route 20. The city aims to balance safety, aesthetics, and regulatory requirements.
Moving Forward with Community and Safety in Mind
The State Route 20 culvert project highlights the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure in rural areas. It also underscores how transportation improvements can support tourism and local economies by improving access to natural and historic sites.