NICHOLAS COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Mountain State Transit Authority (MTA) has officially launched a major renovation project at its Summersville headquarters, marking a significant milestone for public transportation in the region. The project, aimed at modernizing and expanding MTA’s facilities, is expected to enhance operations and improve service for riders across Nicholas, Webster, Pocahontas, and Greenbrier counties.
Bill Robinson, Executive Director of Public Transit in the West Virginia Department of Transportation’s (WVDOT) Division of Multimodal Transportation Facilities, emphasized the project’s long-term impact. “This is the beginning of headquarters rehabilitation projects that will serve the public’s needs for the next 20 years,” he said.
Expanding Public Transit Access
MTA plays a crucial role in connecting communities such as Summersville, Richwood, Webster Springs, and Lewisburg, providing residents with reliable transportation for work, medical appointments, and education. Since adding Pocahontas County to its service area in 2021, the agency has further expanded mobility options, linking rural communities to essential services and economic opportunities.
“We have several people tell us that if it wasn’t for MTA, they would not be able to go to jobs,” said MTA General Manager Tim Thomas. “They would not be able to go to medical appointments. They would not be able to go to school. And by school, I mean college.”
Additionally, MTA’s network connects to the Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority (KRT), providing key transportation links to Fayette County and beyond.
Project Details and Funding
The $2.12 million renovation project will include:
- New office spaces to support administrative and operational staff.
- A dedicated training room for driver education and professional development programs.
- Expansion of the garage area to accommodate MTA’s growing fleet of buses.
Funding for the project is largely supported by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), which has contributed $1.69 million toward the renovations. The upgrades will ensure MTA remains equipped to meet the increasing demand for public transit in the region.
Strengthening West Virginia’s Transit Infrastructure
The headquarters renovation is part of a broader initiative by the WVDOT Multimodal Division to enhance public transit access in Appalachia, where reliable transportation is vital for connecting remote areas to larger urban centers.
With the project set for completion in fall 2025, MTA reaffirms its commitment to providing efficient, affordable, and sustainable transportation for residents and visitors throughout the region. The improvements will allow the agency to better serve its communities, ensuring that public transit remains a dependable option for years to come.
