W.Va. not worried about salt shortage

West Virginia's District 4 is the largest east of the Mississippi River, responsible for clearing snow and ice on about 6,000 road miles.

The Associated Press

11/10/2008

FAIRMONT, W.Va. — A nationwide shortage of road salt has some states scrambling as winter arrives, but West Virginia should be in good shape.

Greg Phillips, Division of Highways manager for District 4 in Fairmont, says the state saved thousands of dollars by stocking up on the supply during the warm weather months.

Since then, the price of salt has gone from $44 a ton to roughly $125 per ton.

West Virginia's District 4 is the largest east of the Mississippi River, responsible for clearing snow and ice on about 6,000 road miles.

Despite that task, Phillips says the state's salt sheds are full, and supplies should last through the winter.