**West Virginia Route 51**
**Definition:**
West Virginia Route 51 (WV 51) is a state highway located in the Eastern Panhandle region of West Virginia. It serves as an east–west corridor connecting the city of Martinsburg to the Virginia state line, facilitating regional travel and access to neighboring states.
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## West Virginia Route 51
West Virginia Route 51 (WV 51) is a significant state highway in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, extending approximately 20 miles from the city of Martinsburg eastward to the Virginia state line near the community of Gerrardstown. The route provides an important transportation link within Berkeley County, connecting residential, commercial, and rural areas, and serving as a connector to Virginia’s secondary road network. WV 51 plays a vital role in local commuting, regional commerce, and access to recreational areas.
### Route Description
WV 51 begins in the city of Martinsburg, the largest city in Berkeley County and a regional economic hub. The western terminus is at the intersection with West Virginia Route 45 (WV 45) and West Virginia Route 9 (WV 9) in Martinsburg’s downtown area. From this point, WV 51 proceeds eastward as a two-lane highway, initially passing through urban and suburban neighborhoods before transitioning into more rural surroundings.
As the route leaves Martinsburg, it traverses a mix of residential subdivisions, farmland, and wooded areas. The highway serves several small communities and unincorporated areas, including Gerrardstown, where it intersects with local roads providing access to residential and agricultural properties. The terrain along WV 51 is characterized by rolling hills typical of the Appalachian foothills, with scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Approaching the eastern terminus, WV 51 crosses the state line into Virginia, where it continues as Virginia State Route 51 (VA 51), maintaining its function as a regional connector. The highway’s alignment facilitates travel between West Virginia and Virginia, supporting cross-border commuting and economic activity.
### History
The establishment of WV 51 dates back to the early development of West Virginia’s state highway system in the 1920s and 1930s. Initially, the route served as a local connector road, linking Martinsburg with outlying rural communities and providing access to agricultural markets. Over time, as the Eastern Panhandle experienced population growth and suburban expansion, WV 51’s role evolved to accommodate increased traffic volumes and regional connectivity needs.
Throughout its history, WV 51 has undergone various improvements, including pavement upgrades, realignments to enhance safety, and intersection enhancements to improve traffic flow. The route’s maintenance and development have been overseen by the West Virginia Division of Highways, which continues to monitor and address transportation demands in the region.
### Major Intersections
WV 51 intersects with several important roads along its length, facilitating access to local and regional destinations:
– **WV 45 / WV 9 (Martinsburg):** The western terminus of WV 51 is at this junction in downtown Martinsburg, providing connections to other major routes serving the city and surrounding areas.
– **County and local roads:** Throughout its course, WV 51 intersects with numerous county and local roads that serve residential neighborhoods, farms, and small communities.
– **Virginia State Line:** At its eastern terminus, WV 51 transitions into Virginia State Route 51, continuing eastward into Frederick County, Virginia.
### Traffic and Usage
WV 51 primarily functions as a two-lane rural highway, with some sections near Martinsburg expanded to accommodate higher traffic volumes. The route supports a mix of commuter traffic, local travel, and commercial vehicles, reflecting the diverse transportation needs of Berkeley County residents and businesses.
Traffic counts vary along the route, with higher volumes near Martinsburg and lower volumes in more rural segments. The highway is an essential corridor for daily commuting, school transportation, and access to regional services.
### Surrounding Area and Points of Interest
The corridor along WV 51 passes through a region rich in natural beauty and historical significance. The Eastern Panhandle is known for its scenic landscapes, including rolling hills, farmland, and forested areas. While WV 51 itself does not directly serve major tourist attractions, it provides access to nearby parks, recreational areas, and historical sites within Berkeley County.
Martinsburg, at the western end of WV 51, offers cultural and historical attractions, including museums, historic districts, and community events. The route’s connection to Virginia also facilitates access to additional recreational and cultural destinations in the neighboring state.
### Maintenance and Future Developments
The West Virginia Division of Highways is responsible for the maintenance and operation of WV 51. Routine maintenance includes pavement repairs, signage updates, and winter weather management. The agency periodically evaluates the route for safety improvements and capacity enhancements.
Future development plans for WV 51 focus on maintaining roadway safety and accommodating anticipated growth in the Eastern Panhandle region. Potential projects may include intersection upgrades, shoulder widening, and improvements to drainage and signage. Any major expansions or realignments would be subject to environmental review and public input.
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**Meta Description:**
West Virginia Route 51 is a state highway in Berkeley County connecting Martinsburg to the Virginia state line. It serves as an important east–west corridor in the Eastern Panhandle region.