Construction of the new Bridgeport Public Utilities Department office building in Bridgeport, West Virginia, is progressing well and is expected to be completed by the end of April. The project is crucial for enhancing the city’s infrastructure to meet the growing demands of its public utilities department. The new office space is designed to accommodate both the current needs and future expansion as Bridgeport continues to grow.

The new building will feature several key upgrades, including a renovated garage, a meter department, and a shop. Additionally, the facility will provide three new offices, two restrooms, and an expanded break room. These improvements aim to make operations more efficient and provide the staff with a more functional working environment.

"This is really just the right size of facility for not only our staff but also the growth of Bridgeport. That's really what drove this project," said Pat Ford, Bridgeport’s City Manager. The need for a new building has become evident as the city continues to grow and the demand for more space and modern facilities increases.

Located near the wastewater treatment facility, the new office is being built by Lee Reger Builds Inc. The construction is expected to cost the city a total of $410,000, a significant investment to improve the public utilities infrastructure. The original office building, which was added onto the treatment plant in 1996, was no longer adequate for the department's expanding needs.

Superintendent Jared Cummons of the Public Utilities Department mentioned that the project started last summer, and the construction crew has worked tirelessly throughout the winter months. Bridgeport's Director of Public Information, Andrea Kerr, emphasized that, despite occasional weather challenges, the new office building is on track to be substantially completed by April 30. As of this week, the construction is about 75% complete, with crews focused on installing epoxy flooring and finalizing other details.

"Definitely a long time," Kerr said when asked how long the department had needed these upgrades. The improvements will provide the department with more room to accommodate staff, equipment, and expand operations. However, City Manager Pat Ford clarified that while there will be additional space for growth, there are currently no immediate plans for increasing staff.

The completion of the new office building will provide a modern, functional space for Bridgeport’s Public Utilities Department, ensuring that it has the resources necessary to continue serving the community effectively as the city grows and evolves. The project’s completion will help meet the needs of the department while supporting the city’s ongoing development.

Originally reported by Damian Phillips in WV news.