The Department of Public Works consists of seven divisions: Streets, Sanitation and Trash, Traffic Engineering, Motor Pool, Inspections and Permits, Building Maintenance, and Administration.
STREETS DIVISION
The Streets Division maintains 196 miles of roadways and approximately 200 miles of alleys in the city. The division also maintains trees in the public right-of-way and handles salting and snow plowing in the winter.
SANITATION AND TRASH DIVISION
The Sanitation and Trash Division is responsible for curbside refuse pickup of residential garbage. The service runs Monday through Friday. The division also handles monthly pickups of non-household garbage. Residents can call the division at 304.696.5540 and then press option 1 to schedule a free monthly pickup.
TRAFFIC ENGINEERING DIVISION
The Traffic Engineering Division maintains more than 120 traffic intersection controls and lights, more than 700 streetlights, and thousands of street signs and markings on public roadways. The division also assists with the placement of seasonal decorations in the downtown.
MOTOR POOL DIVISION
The Huntington Motor Pool Division repairs and services vehicles and equipment for the Police Department, Fire Department, Huntington Municipal Parking Board, Sanitation and Trash, and Street divisions. Vehicles used by Mountain Health Arena, city employees, the Sanitary Board, and Traffic Engineering are also serviced. Work is performed in day and evening shifts at the city garage, 419 2nd Ave.
INSPECTIONS AND PERMITS DIVISION
The Inspections section of the Inspections and Permits Division is staffed by three inspectors (building, electrical, and plumbing) who look at structures to make sure they are safe and comply with the International Building Code. They also work with and inspect buildings for the Unsafe Buildings Commission. The Permits section issues permits for additions and repairs to houses and buildings. Because most structural work on houses requires a permit, it is best to inquire about permits before starting work.
The Inspections and Permits Office is located in Room 100 at City Hall. The office can be reached at 304.696.5540 ext. 2003 or permits@huntingtonwv.gov. Inspectors can meet with the public between 8 and 9 a.m. and 3 and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Calling ahead for an appointment is recommended.
BUILDING AND MAINTENANCE DIVISION
The Building and Maintenance Division is responsible for the upkeep and repair of eight city buildings and assists with the upkeep of seven other city-owned buildings.
ADMINISTRATION
The Administration Division is responsible for the budgets and oversees work distribution for the six other divisions under the Department of Public Works. The division comprises the public works director, general superintendent, and public works director’s executive assistant.