DPNews@DominionPost.com
MORGANTOWN — The Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office is advising residents and visitors to prepare for significant traffic congestion throughout the county this weekend, particularly on Saturday.
A high volume of concurrent events at Mylan Park, the WVU Coliseum and local athletic fields will lead to heavier-than-normal traffic patterns. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to seek alternate routes when possible.
Impacted Areas & Peak Times
Traffic will be most heavily impacted around the following interchanges and corridors:
— I-79, Exit 155 (Star City/Osage): Expect heavy congestion on the exit ramps and throughout the Chaplin Hill Road area due to multiple events at Mylan Park.
— I-68, Exit 7 (Pierpont Road): Increased volume is expected near the soccer and baseball complexes.
— Monongahela Boulevard & Patteson Drive: Heavy traffic is anticipated surrounding the WVU Coliseum for the NCAA Tournament.
Major Events Schedule (Saturday, March 21)
— NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament: West Virginia University vs. Miami (OH) at the WVU Coliseum (Tip-off at 5 p.m.).
— Jurassic Quest: A large-scale family event at Mylan Park running throughout the day (8 a.m. – 6 p.m.).
— 2026 PA YMCA State Swimming Championship: Hosted at the Peak Health Aquatic Center at Mylan Park (Events beginning at 8:00 AM).
— Marty Pushkin Invitational Track Meet: Outdoor track and field competition at the Track & Field Complex at Mylan Park (Starting at 10 a.m.).
— Youth & High School Sports: Multiple baseball and softball tournaments are scheduled at the Mylan Park and local community fields.
Public Safety Notice
To assist in alleviating traffic congestion and ensuring public safety, the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Monongalia County Emergency Management Agency and WVU Police, will be deploying personnel to high-volume areas this weekend.
Deputies and Officers will be stationed at key intersections and exit ramps to direct traffic and manage the flow of both motorists and pedestrians.
Recommendations for Travelers
— Avoid the Area: If you do not have a destination in the Star City or Mylan Park areas, please use alternate routes.
— Allow Extra Time: If you are attending an event, plan to arrive at least one hour earlier than usual.
— Stay Alert: Be mindful of increased pedestrian traffic near sports complexes and the Coliseum.
“With several thousand visitors expected in the county this weekend, we ask for the public’s patience,” the Mon County Sheriff’s Office said. “Our priority is ensuring everyone reaches their destination safely. Please follow the directions of law enforcement on-site.”
