The Monongahela National Forest has closed a section of the Williams River Road (Forest Road 86) to all motor vehicle use until critical repairs are completed and the road has been made safe to drive again.
Specifically, the Williams River Road will be closed to motor vehicles from the gate downstream of Tea Creek Campground to the gate near Laurel Run. Signs and safety information will be posted in advance of the closure.
Pedestrians, bicyclists and equestrians are still allowed to use the road.
Two serious safety issues will be corrected during the closure. From Tea Creek Campground to Three Forks Bridge, barriers will be placed between the road and the river, where needed, to allow for safe passage of two-way traffic. Warning signs will also be installed.
The second safety issue involves culverts that carry White Oak Run under the Williams River Road downstream of the Three Forks Bridge. These culverts failed a recent inspection and are no longer safe to carry motor vehicle traffic. Reestablishing a safe crossing at White Oak Run and reopening the Williams River Road to through traffic is a priority for forest staff.
More information and project updates can be found at: fs.usda.gov/main/mnf/home or call the Forest Service at 304-846-2695.
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