Connecting Interstate 79 to the West Virginia Turnpike near Beckley, Corridor L runs nearly 70 through the heart of West Virginia. It may be the state's most important route as it is the most direct route for residents and transplants of Western Pennsylvania, New York, and Ontario to the South, but it also opened up this once isolated area to tourism and adventure seekers everywhere. Corridor L is a product of the Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS) that is part of the Appalachian Regional Commission. The Appalachian Development of 1965 put into motion the formation of the ADHS and the funding for the eventual construction of Corridor L. Construction on Corridor L would begin in 1969 and the route would be completed in 1978. (1) A one mile spur of Corridor L connecting to the West Virginia Turnpike would open in 1980. From the West Virginia Turnpike north to US 60 - Corridor L was built as four lanes divided. From US 60 to Interstate 79, the highway was built as a
Because every road has a story.