CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The state Division of Highways has been asked to consider delaying payments to its vendors in light of the state’s financial situation.
Currently the payments are made approximately three weeks after a bill is received. DOH spokesman Brent Walker says the Justice administration has asked the agency to consider delaying the payments to a six-week window.
“We were asked to consider that as an option should our financial challenges become significant,” Walker said. “Currently we don’t believe it’s an issue, but of course, cash flow is always a concern for us. We are doing all we can not to delay payment.”
The projected state revenue shortfall this fiscal year could finish as high as $123 million, according to state revenue officials. Walker said the DOH keeps a close eye daily on its cash flow situation. He said they will make a move if they have to.
State lawmakers have so far rejected much of Gov. Jim Justice’s plan to put millions of new dollars into highway work. Walker is hopeful there will be some agreement in the future.
“We share the governor’s concern about our infrastructure challenges,” Walker said. “We continue to be open to looking for and discussing ways to improve.”