Again!? There are more lane restrictions and slow downs because of the Tunnel Ridge (Alliance Coal) longwall coal mining operation under I-70. In 2022 I made a daily commute to work using the I-70 stretch between Wheeling and Washington and even to this day I sometimes think about that commute in frustration. Neon orange lane closure signs were regular sights those days. So was the traffic and so was my high stress level.
I initially thought the “construction” was your typical freeze and thaw pothole repair, but as it dragged on and on I realized it had to be something else. I found that CCJ had alerted residents of the issues the mining was causing under I70 in 2019. I wrote a blog in 2022 describing what I witnessed from making that commute over that year. Substantial vehicular accidents and significant delays were not unfamiliar sights during my 2022 commute.
I wanted to write a small update on this issue because mining is taking place once again under I-70. According to PennDOT, “Eastbound and westbound traffic will be shifted to the inner passing lanes and reduced to a 45- mph speed limit between the West Virginia state line and one mile east of Exit 1 (West Alexander). The restrictions are being implemented in response to potential impacts from Alliance Resource Partners, L.P., and Tunnel Ridge, LLC’s longwall mining operations at Tunnel Ridge Mine. They will remain in place for several weeks (no end date set) until mining is complete and roadway conditions allow for normal traffic flow.”
This work, and these changes, were expected to begin on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
We at CCJ wanted members and residents to know exactly what is going on beneath the ground they walk and drive on. We want everyone to stay safe! Please be cautious when using this stretch of I70.
If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to us.