CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- The Division of Highways says it's decided on a plan for replacing a bridge linking Fayette and Raleigh counties.

After hearing from the public, it's decided to build a new span downstream from the existing Thomas Buford Pugh Memorial Bridge. The work will take about three years.

Officials say they will let traffic continue to flow on the current bridge and avoid the need for a 60-mile detour.

Highway engineer Marvin Murphy says the state wanted to understand how the communities would be affected. He says this is a case where the division listened and learned -- and helped the public avoid a major inconvenience.

A weight restriction of 3 tons and a 9-foot vertical clearance will remain on the existing bridge.