Update on Davis Avenue Bridge Replacement

On June 3, 2025, Elkins city officials attended a meeting with representatives from the West Virginia Department of Highways (DOH) and Mannik Smith Group, the general contractor leading the design phase for the future Davis Avenue Bridge. 

The City of Elkins is now in the early stages of preparing to close the 70-year-old Davis Avenue Bridge. The DOH and Mannik Smith Group are currently designing a replacement for the bridge, which connects south Elkins to downtown. The City and DOH aim to complete the project before the 2027 Mountain State Forest Festival.

As of press time, Mannik Smith, the contractor selected by the DOH, is expected to finalize the preliminary design in fall 2025. At that time, the City of Elkins and the public will have an opportunity to review the plans and provide feedback. The final design and construction timeline will be announced by June 2026. 

A commitment to safe and timely construction 

Currently, DOH’s goal is to use a turnkey construction approach (“get in and get out”) to complete the project in less than one year. Phased construction, the alternative approach, would take significantly longer—a major concern given the bridge’s role as a critical thoroughfare for vehicles and pedestrians. 

Under the current timeline, construction would begin after the 2026 Mountain State Forest Festival and finish before the 2027 festival. The new bridge’s design, now approximately 30% complete, includes lighting for vehicles and pedestrians, wider shoulders for cyclists, and new abutments on both sides of the Tygart Valley River. 

While the City of Elkins owns the Davis Avenue Bridge, a DOH program will cover the majority of the estimated $4 million replacement cost. Like many communities across West Virginia, Elkins faces infrastructure challenges—the state has one of the highest percentages of structurally deficient bridges in the nation. According to a June 2024 U.S. Department of Transportation report, nearly 19% of West Virginia’s 7,300+ bridges were rated in “poor” condition. 

The DOH’s funding commitment means the City of Elkins will not have to shoulder the financial burden of a $4 million project—a relief for Elkins’ citizens given the city’s annual budget of approximately $6.5 million. 

However, several challenges remain. The city and DOH must coordinate the relocation of a major gas line, address any impacts on the adjacent privately owned properties, modify stormwater and sewer systems, and decide on how to include pedestrian access to the planned riverside walking trails. 

Looking Ahead 

The City of Elkins remains committed to working closely with the DOH, Mannik Smith Group, and the community to ensure a smooth transition during this vital infrastructure project. Public input will play a key role in shaping the final design, and updates will be shared as the project progresses. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the city’s official channels and participate in upcoming opportunities for feedback. 

For more information, visit this page, which the City will update as more information becomes available.