Which characteristic is commonly associated with the highway system in West Virginia?

The highway system in West Virginia is primarily characterized by its role in connecting rural and urban areas. This is particularly important given the state's diverse geography, which includes mountains and valleys that can isolate communities. The highway system facilitates access not only for daily commuting between towns and cities but also for the transportation of goods and services, thereby fostering economic development throughout the region.

While air travel is significant, the highways do not serve this purpose. The presence or absence of toll roads varies across the state, and not all transportation is limited to public transport; personal vehicles dominate travel. Thus, the integration of rural and urban communities through the highway system is a critical aspect of how transportation functions within West Virginia.