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Interstate 64
[The Purple Heart Trail]
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The Purple Heart Trail

Interstate 64 in Kentucky is designated the Purple Heart Trail. The transportation cabinet has erected signs noting this designation at the Indiana and West Virginia state lines as well as each county line crossing along I-64 in Kentucky.

I-64 is Kentucky’s major east-west highway; it connects Louisville, Frankfort, and Lexington to Ashland in the far eastern part of the state.

Construction started on parts of I-64 in 1958 and the entire route in Kentucky was completed by December of 1976. The length of I-64 in Kentucky is 191.507 miles. This includes 6.308 miles that I-64 shares with I-75 in Fayette County.

Related images: [14 images related to this topic.]

Related image galleries: [I-64 - Sherman Minton Bridge] [Louisville - Miscellaneous Images]

Related links:

Related news topics: [Bath County] [Boyd County] [Carter County] [Clark County] [Fayette County] [Franklin County] [Indiana] [Jefferson County] [Montgomery County] [The Ohio River] [Rowan County] [Scott County] [Shelby County] [Woodford County]


I-64 News Items

[I-64]
Clark County I-64 Rest Area Again Judged ‘Best Maintained’ in Kentucky
Posted: 17-May-2023 1:57PM CDT

From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet:

Clark County I-64 Rest Area Again Judged ‘Best Maintained’ in Kentucky

Staff praised for providing clean, safe haven to motorists

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 15, 2023) – Kentucky’s “best maintained” rest area for 2023 can be found on the eastbound lanes of Interstate 64 in Clark County, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) announced today.

“The interstate highway system was planned with rest areas along the way as a convenience. Now, they’re a necessity,” said Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray, whose agency annually presents the Best Maintained Rest Area Award. “It sends a message about our state when we can offer visitors a clean, safe facility in which everything is in working order.”

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[I-64]
I-64 Sherman Minton Bridge over Ohio River Closed Indefinitely
Posted: 10-Sep-2011 10:57PM CDT

Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels ordered the Sherman Minton Bridge, I-64's bridge over the Ohio River, closed indefinitely on Sept. 9, 2011 after cracks were found in the structure during an inspection: Louisville Courier-Journal: Sherman Minton Bridge closed indefinitely due to structural cracks (Sept. 9, 2011) [Outside Link]

From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet et al:

Transportation Leaders Announce Traffic Plans With Indefinite Closing of Sherman Minton Bridge
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (September 10, 2011) — The public should expect long traffic delays, especially during peak rush hours, with the indefinite closing of the Sherman Minton Bridge between Louisville and New Albany, transportation leaders on both sides of the Ohio River announced today.
Mayor Greg Fischer, joined by officials from the Indiana Department of Transportation and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, announced the following items to help alleviate some of the congestion.
  • When possible, it’s important for people to avoid peak travel times in the morning and evening.
  • People should carpool – three or four to a vehicle – to help reduce the number of automobiles on the interstates.
  • People should stagger their commute times – going to work early and leaving early or going to work late and leaving late.
  • Companies should be as flexible as possible and allow employees to work from home…to telecommute…and to have staggered arrival and departure times.
  • If possible, when traveling within Louisville, drivers should use surface streets and stay off the interstate. This will cause more congestion on side streets, however it will help alleviate cars on the interstates.
A detailed traffic management plan is being developed to ensure that congestion is alleviated as much as possible for as long as the bridge is closed. As soon as feasible, lanes of the Second Street Bridge will be converted to reverse lanes, though that is unlikely to occur before Monday.
When the reverse lanes are in place, there will be three southbound lanes and one northbound lane during the morning commute. For the evening commute, that will reverse, with three northbound lanes and one southbound lane. Traffic flow on the Kennedy Bridge (I-65) will remain normal.
Where possible, exit ramps along I-65 in Southern Indiana will be widened from one to two lanes to help traffic flow.
In addition, officials from the Transit Authority of River City are working with the two states to develop plans to use public transit to move people by buses across the river.
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[I-64]
Sherman Minton Bridge Repainting Underway
Posted: 31-Mar-2010 8:00PM CDT

The Sherman Minton bridge, Interstate 64's crossing of the Ohio River, is being repainted: Louisville Courier-Journal: Sherman Minton Bridge painting gets under way (March 23, 2010) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Contract awarded to widen I-64 in Shelby County
Posted: 9-Nov-2009 7:38PM CST

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet recently awarded a contract to widen five miles of I-64 in Shelby County. Work is expected to be completed in the summer of 2011: Louisville Courier-Journal: Contract awarded to widen I-64 in Shelby County (Nov. 9, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Major Slide Closes Lanes on I-64
Posted: 21-Sep-2009 9:20PM CDT

The two westbound lanes of Interstate 64 are closed at the Catlettsburg exit after they sank about a foot due to an embankment failure: Associated Press: 2 interstate lanes sink in northeastern Ky (Sept. 21, 2009) [Outside Link], Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Department of Highways District 9: Westbound Interstate 64 remains closed at Catlettsburg; Crews expediting repairs; eastbound traffic unaffected (Sept. 21, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
I-64 Bridge Work Near Frankfort; Traffic Delays Expected
Posted: 18-Aug-2009 12:12AM CDT

From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet:

I-64 Project to Detour Traffic
FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 31, 2009) –The Interstate 64 twin bridges crossing KY 420 (Old Lawrenceburg Road) in Franklin County will undergo repairs beginning August 3rd. The project will involve maintenance repairs to the structural steel, expansion joints and bridge deck. Motorists may want to find alternate routes or adjust their plans during peak travel times.
As part of the project, one lane of traffic will be closed continuously during the bridge deck work. Other phases of work will be performed underneath the bridge with minimal disruption to motorists. The speed limit will be reduced to 55 MPH in the vicinity of the work zone.

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[I-64]
Sherman Minton (I-64) Bridge Closed Briefly after Barge Strike
Posted: 5-Feb-2009 10:49AM CST

The Sherman Minton Bridge which carries I-64 over the Ohio River west of downtown Louisville was closed for about three hours this morning after being struck by a barge. An inspection found that the bridge had only suffered superficial damage.

More information: Louisville Courier-Journal: Sherman Minton Bridge reopens; Strike by boat closed span for three hours; damage 'superficial' (Feb. 5, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Courier-Journal: 8664—Lot’s of Hype; Little Proof
Posted: 30-Jul-2006 11:17PM CDT

A Courier-Journal article finds there is lots of hype among those trying to have I-64 removed from downtown Louisville; however, there is little supporting evidence for some of the supporters claims: Courier-Journal: I-64 removal: Fans but little proof; Riverfront plan lacks supporting studies (June 12, 2006) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Third Street Ramp May Close as Part of Spaghetti Junction Reconstruction
Posted: 30-Jul-2006 11:10PM CDT

The interchange between I-64 and Third Street in downtown Louisville may be closed as part of Spaghetti Junction reconstruction partition of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridges Project: Courier-Journal: Third Street ramp might be eliminated; River Road would gain exit (April 18, 2006) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Repairs to Louisville Downtown I-64 May Slow Traffic
Posted: 1-Mar-2006 2:41AM CST

Work to replace expansion joints on the elevated section of I-64 in downtown Louisville is expected to begin late this year: Courier-Journal: I-64 repairs along river will shut parts for months; $30 million project to replace joints (Feb. 28, 2006) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
I-64 Cannonsburg Interchange Work to Begin this Summer
Posted: 5-Feb-2006 2:30AM CST

Work is expected to begin this summer on a project to reconstruct the I-64/KY 180 interchange in Boyd County: Ashland Daily Independent: Summer to kick off I-64 Cannonsburg interchange overhaul (Jan. 15, 2006) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Resident Proposes Removing I-64 from Louisville; Bridge Designed Presented
Posted: 5-Feb-2006 2:25AM CST

A suggested proposal for the reconstruction of Spaghetti Junction would remove I-64 from downtown Louisville and route it into Indiana over the proposed East End Bridge: Courier-Journal: Plan would erase I-64 from downtown; Bridges proposal faces uphill battle (Nov. 25, 2005) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Public will get chances to see ideas for bridge; Two hearings set on downtown span (Nov. 28, 2005) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Downtown bridge ideas unveiled; Public provides feedback on designs (Nov. 30, 2005) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Bridge designs to be unveiled; Public can see how eastern span may look (Dec. 11, 2005) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Spaghetti Junction debated; Forum explores removing I-64 (Jan. 12, 2006) [Outside Link]

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[I-71]
I-71 Public Meetings
Posted: 9-Nov-2005 2:13PM CST

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will be holding public meetings this week and next to discuss proposed changes to I-71 between Spaghetti Junction and the Gene Snyder Freeway in Jefferson County: Business First of Louisville: Transportation Cabinet to hold public meetings on I-71 changes (Nov. 7, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[US 231]
US 231 Indiana Widening Scheduled for Completion in 2011
Posted: 2-Oct-2005 8:32PM CDT

A project to widen US 231 in Indiana between I-64 and the William H. Natcher Bridge might not be complete until 2011 under Indiana’s new ten-year plan: Messenger-Inquirer: Final leg of widening could be done in 2011; Work part of Indiana's 10-year road plan (Sept. 30, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Spaghetti Junction Project Redesigned to Avoid Skate Park
Posted: 10-Sep-2005 9:42PM CDT

Plans for a redesigned Spaghetti Junction in downtown Louisville will be changed to avoid impacting the city’s Extreme Park: Courier-Journal: Planners do a 180 on Extreme Park; Pillars for Spaghetti Junction won't be in skate area (July 29, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[US 60]
Shelbyville By-pass Work May Begin Soon
Posted: 10-Sep-2005 9:38PM CDT

Traffic improvements are on the way for Shelbyville and Shelby County. Contracts for the construction of a new by-pass around the city are expected to be let this month, and a project to widen I-64 through the county is expected to begin in 2007: Shelbyville Sentinel News: By-pass bids set for fall, interstate work in 2007 (July 6, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
I-64 Rehabilitation Project Underway in Eastern Kentucky
Posted: 10-Sep-2005 9:38PM CDT
A $24 million maintenance project is underway on part of I-64 in eastern Kentucky: Ashland Daily Independent: Fifteen-month $24 million I-64 rehab begins (July 7, 2005) [Outside Link]
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[I-64]
“Superload” Move Slows Traffic on I-64 in Indiana, Illinois
Posted: 1-Jul-2005 3:50AM CDT

The transportation of a large container over I-64 recently slowed traffic in Indiana and Illinois: Evansville Courier & Press: Move of 'superload' to delay I-64 traffic (June 15, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
States Split Right of Acquisition Process for Louisville East End Bridge
Posted: 30-Apr-2005 5:53AM CDT

Kentucky and Indiana will allow subcontractors working on projects related to the proposed Eastern Jefferson County Ohio River bridge to handle right of way acquisition instead of having one contractor handle all of the property purchases: Courier-Journal: New plan to buy land for bridges assailed; States say change is more efficient (April 8, 2005) [Outside Link]

In other bridge news, another protest group has popped up to claim the two proposed bridges at Louisville are unneeded: (Jeffersonville, Ind.) Evening News: Bridges not needed, group contends (April 8, 2005) [Outside Link]

A WAVE 3 reporter describes his look at a 3D model of the proposed bridges: WAVE 3 TV: Downtown Bridges Will Eliminate Spaghetti Junction (April 20, 2005) [Outside Link]

The Courier-Journal profiles Ed Cox, who is the Indiana Department of Transportation’s Project Manager for the bridges project: Courier-Journal: Engineer is at the helm of bridge project; He's no stranger to improving traffic (April 25, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
I-64 Bridge Project to Slow Traffic near Huntington, WV
Posted: 30-Apr-2005 5:53AM CDT

A project to reconstruct and widen a bridge in Huntington will slow traffic traveling into West Virginia: Huntingon (W.V.) Herald-Dispatch: Motorists can expect delays as I-64 bridge project begins (April 7, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[KY 645]
Preferred KY 645 Alternative Would Widen KY 32
Posted: 4-Apr-2005 1:36AM CDT

At a recent citizens advisory board meeting, a route that would widen KY 32 between Sandy Hook and Morehead was chosen as the preferred alternative for a proposed extension of KY 645 from US 23 to I-64.

More information: Morehead News: Proposed KY 645 widens KY 32 east; adds interchange at Rodburn area (April 1, 2005) [Outside Link], Ashland Daily Independent: Ky. 645 debates continue (April 3, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Shelby County Officials Get First Look at I-64 Widening Plans
Posted: 1-Apr-2005 3:51AM CST

This week, Shelby County officials got their first look at plans to widen I-64 to six lanes through the county. Work is expected to start in 2007 to widen I-64 from the Gene Snyder Freeway (Interstate 265/KY 841) in Jefferson County to mile marker 35 in Shelby County. The work will begin at the Gene Snyder Freeway and progress eastwards in four mile sections. The project should be completed by 2011.

More information: Shelby County Sentinel News: Officials get first look at I-64 widening plan (March 23, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Indiana-Illinois Rail Trail Plan Hits Snag after Bridge Collapse
Posted: 9-Feb-2005 2:52AM CST

Plans for a rail trail linking Indiana and Illinois hit a snag when a segment of the abandoned Indiana Hi-Rail railroad bridge collapsed into the Wabash River in January. A group of civil engineering students at the University of Evansville were studying how to best rehabilitate the bridge which is located just upstream from the I-64 bridge.

More information: Evansville Courier-Press: Trail project for bridge hits a snag (Jan. 30, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Abandoned Wabash River Railroad Bridge Washed Out by Flood
Posted: 19-Jan-2005 2:49AM CST

A section of an abandoned railroad bridge across the Wabash River was washed out by recent flood waters. The bridge was most recently used by Indiana Hi-Rail and had previously been used by the Illinois Central railroad. The bridge sits immediately upstream from the I-64 Wabash River crossing: Evansville Courier & Press: Railroad bridge swept away in flood (Jan. 12, 2005) [Outside Link], Evansville Courier & Press: Will the levee hold? (Jan. 13, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Warm Weather Begins to Thaw Kentucky Highways
Posted: 28-Dec-2004 4:48PM CST

Western Kentuvky’s interstates and parkways were passable, but ice persisted on roads in Christian County on Monday: (Hopkinsville) Kentucky New Era: Slushing along; Roads improving but still slippery (Dec. 27, 2004) [Outside Link]

More than one foot of snow shut down roads in Caldwell County: Princeton Times Leader: Blizzard conditions plague community (Dec. 27, 2004) [Outside Link]

Warmer temperatures are expected to help clear roads statewide: Associated Press: Forecasters say thaw will begin this week (Dec. 28, 2004) [Outside Link]

A train that had been blocking two railroad crossings in Henderson has been moved: The Henderson Gleaner: Stuck train finally gets moving (Dec. 28, 2004) [Outside Link]

Calloway County road crews hope to get a helping hand from warm weather: Murray Ledger & Times: Road crews hope to get aid from sun (Dec. 28, 2004) [Outside Link]

Hardin County residents are happy with local snow cleanup efforts: Hardin County News-Enterprise: Ice, cold temperatures hamper road cleanup (Dec. 28, 2004) [Outside Link]

Roads in Southern Illinois are slick, but open: WPSD NewsChannel 6: Illinois: Rural Roads Are Open But Slick (Dec. 27, 2004) [Outside Link]

US 41 and I-64 in Southern Indiana are in good shape: Evansville Courier & Press: Thaw turning storm into memory (Dec. 28, 2004) [Outside Link]

Up-to-date road conditions can be found at: www.511.ky.gov [Outside Link]

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[Western Kentucky Parkway]
Kentucky Continues to Dig Out from Last Week’s Winter Storm; Some Roads Refreeze Overnight
Posted: 27-Dec-2004 3:22AM CST

Higher temperatures during the day may have melted some of the ice and snow along Kentucky’s highways; however, falling temperatures during nights is causing some of it to refreeze. Refreezing made parts of the Western Kentucky Parkway and Edward T. Breathitt Pennyrile Parkway impassible Christmas night: Associated Press: State asks drivers to avoid western Kentucky parkways (Dec. 26, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Motorist should use caution traveling (Dec. 26, 2004) [Outside Link]

Current information regarding highway conditions can be found at: www.511.ky.gov [Outside Link].

On Christmas Day, snow and ice remained in the travel lanes of I-65 in several places. In the Louisville area, a number of abandoned vehicles remained along the shoulders and, in some cases, the travel lanes of I-65 and the Watterson Expressway. Secondary routes in both Warren and Jefferson County were still snow and ice covered; as were many of the ramps entering and leaving I-65.

Cleanup continued through Friday on I-24: Associated Press: Kentuckians continue to dig out of holiday snow (Dec. 24, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Kentuckians continue to dig out of snow (Dec. 24, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: State making progress on western Kentucky roads (Dec. 25, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Some still without power, roads cleared (Dec. 25, 2004) [Outside Link]

The Maysville area recovered quickly from the storm: Maysville Ledger Independent: White Christmas more shiny than fluffy; road crews scramble (Dec. 24, 2004) [Outside Link]

Several accidents were reported on I-71 near mile marker 58 in Gallatin County: Associated Press: Cold keeps its hold on state (Dec. 25, 2004) [Outside Link]

Improving conditions allowed shoppers to return the stores on Christmas Eve in Owensboro: Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer: Shoppers are back on track; Improving road conditions send residents heading to stores (Dec. 25, 2004) [Outside Link]

Summary of snow response in Henderson County: The Henderson Gleaner: Most crews stay busy helping folks, clearing roadways (Dec. 25, 2004) [Outside Link]

Problems continued on I-64 and I-65 in Indiana through Friday: The Jeffersonville (Ind.) Evening News: Snow freezes region; state of emergency declared (Dec. 24, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Some Roads Reopening After Record Snow (Dec. 24, 2004) [Outside Link], Evansville (Ind.) Courier & Press: A long stranded trip (Dec. 24, 2004) [Outside Link], New Albany (Ind.) Tribune: City struggles to keep streets clear as snow piles up (Dec. 24, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Interstates reopen to travelers in Midwest (Dec. 25, 2004) [Outside Link], Evansville Courier & Press: Snow gives travelers tales to tell (Dec. 25, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Some Indiana highways remained slick but passable after snow (Dec. 25, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Indiana highways slick but passable (Dec. 26, 2004) [Outside Link]

Paducah area information: WPSD NewsChannel 6: UPDATE: Major Roads Now Open (Dec. 24, 2004) [Outside Link]

More information: Associated Press: Warmth aids road crews (Dec. 25, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-24]
More Snow and Ice Information
Posted: 24-Dec-2004 1:47AM CST
Topics: Topic listing supressed. [33 topics related to this item]

Wrecks caused backups on I-71 and I-24 and summary of snow response statewide: Associated Press: Winter storm coats parts of Kentucky with snow, ice (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Winter Storm Coats Much Of Kentucky With Snow, Ice (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

Summary of snow response in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati: (Covington) Kentucky Post: Kentucky and Ohio counties declare weather emergencies (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Now, time to dig out (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

Snow response in the Glasgow area: Glasgow Daily Times: Winter storm hits Kentucky (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

Motorists became stranded on part of the Edward T. Breathitt Pennyrile Parkway near Hopkinsville: (Hopkinsville) Kentucky New Era: Storm paralyzes region (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

Gov. Fletcher has declared a state of emergency in the following counties and cities: McLean, Hancock, Livingston, Hopkins, City of Providence, City of Owensboro, City of Falmouth, City of Butler, Todd, Daviess, Crittenden, Carlisle, Shelby, Muhlenberg, Pendleton, Bullitt and Grayson: WAVE 3: Governor Ernie Fletcher's Office Declares State of Emergency (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

I-64 in Indiana remains closed between Evansville and the Illinois state line. The National Guard has been rescuing stranded motorists along the interstate: Associated Press: Guardsmen Rescuing Travelers Stranded On Southern Indiana Highway (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Stranded travelers recall cold night on snowbound highway (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Snow Storm Snarls Much Of Southern, Central Indiana (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link], Evansville Courier & Press: Indiana National Guardsmen rescue stranded motorists from Interstate 64 (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

Current Conditions

Information regarding conditions on Kentucky’s highway can be obtained by calling 1-800-RDREPORT, by calling 511 from an in-state telephone, or by visiting ww.511.ky.gov [Outside Link].

Maps of roads that will be cleared by the state government can be found at: www.kytc.state.ky.us/maintenance/Snow_Ice.htm [Outside Link].

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[I-64]
Shelby County Ordered to Remove Signs from Interstate
Posted: 23-Dec-2004 12:44AM CST

For about 18 hours motorists on I-64 could see that Shelby County claims to be the “American Saddlebred Capital of the World;” however, just 18 hours after the county road department installed the sign the state department of highways ordered the signs removed. Federal officials have established stringent rules governing the types of signs that can be installed along interstates, and the Saddlebred Capital signs ran afoul of those rules.

The signs will remain along other highways, including US 60.

More information: Shelbyville Sentinel-News: Signs go up, then signs come down (Dec. 22, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[KY 645]
KY 645 Meeting Notes
Posted: 22-Dec-2004 9:06PM CST

The Ashland Daily Independent reports that Carter County officials have high hopes for the proposed KY 645 extension following recent public meetings. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is working to complete a feasibility study to determine if KY 645 should be extended from its current terminus at US 23 to I-64 near Morehead.

More information: Ashland Daily Independent: Hopes high for Ky. 645 meeting (Dec. 17, 2004) [Outside Link], Morehead News: Second hearing held on KY 645 extension (Dec. 21, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-75]
SAFE Program Draws Praise
Posted: 5-Dec-2004 8:09PM CST

In October the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet began testing the Safety Assistance for Freeway Emergencies (SAFE) program in I-75 in Laurel County and I-64 in Franklin County and Shelby County. The SAFE program operates cargo vans over the highways and helps motorists with highway emergencies ranging from flat tires to running out of gas. When a SAFE driver aids a motorist, the motorist is given a comment card to return via mail; the comments so far have been overwhelmingly positive.

More information: Corbin Times-Tribune: The traveler's friend (Nov. 19, 2004) [Outside Link], Shelbyville Sentinel News: New program offers help for interstate breakdowns (Dec. 1, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
I-64 Widening in Clark County
Posted: 5-Dec-2004 8:07PM CST

Work has begun on a project to widen two miles of I-64 in Clark County. In addition to widening the interstate the two-year project will reconstruct several adjacent roads including parts of KY 1958 and Van Meter Road: Lexington Herald-Leader: I-64 Being Widened in Clark County (Nov. 17, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
New Route in Indiana Provides new Route to I-64
Posted: 15-Oct-2004 3:53AM CDT

A new connector route in Indiana provides a new route from Hawesville to I-64 in southern Indiana. The new Indiana 237 connects the Bob Cummings Bridge over the Ohio River at Hawesville to Indiana 37 and I-64.

More information: Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer: Connector to I-64 opens in Perry County (Oct. 4, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[KY 645]
KY 645 Extension Planning Still Active
Posted: 12-Oct-2004 1:24AM CDT

Planning continues for a proposed project to extend KY 645 from its current terminus at US 23 to I-64 near Morehead. No money has been allocated for construction of the project; however, a $500,000 feasibility study has been ongoing since 2002. The study will help determine whether such a route is needed and present preliminary alternatives for the route.

More information: Ashland Daily Independent: Ky. 645 extension still on track (Oct. 11, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
I-64 Bridge and Repaving Work to Finish in December
Posted: 12-Oct-2004 1:24AM CDT

A repaving and bridge rehabilitation project on I-64 near the Rowan/Bath County line is expected to complete in December. Three miles of the road are being repaved, and the deck of the Licking River bridge is being overlaid with a latex concrete. The latex concrete will serve to waterproof the bridge and extend its lifetime.

More information: The Morehead News: I-64 bridge on Rowan line to be done in December (Oct. 8, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Shelby County Officials Plan for I-64 Disruptions
Posted: 11-Sep-2004 7:12AM CDT

Shelbyville, Shelby County, and state officials are preparing plans for dealing with alternate routes during emergency closures along I-64. In the past, such closures have resulted in clogged traffic along US 60.

More information: Shelbyville Sentinel News: Officials hammer out plan for I-64 disruption (Sept. 8, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
News Notes
Posted: 20-Aug-2004 5:32AM CDT
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[The Ohio River]
Contracts Awarded for Design of Part of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridge Project; Bids Solicited for Bridge Design Contracts
Posted: 24-Jun-2004 1:32AM CDT

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has awarded two contracts for design engineering on two segments of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridge Project. Qk4, Inc. has been awarded a project to redesign the Spaghetti Junction interchange in downtown, and H.W. Lochner, Inc. has been awarded a project to design the extension of the Gene Snyder Freeway from I-71 to the new Ohio River bridge: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Two Kentucky Companies Named As Engineering and Design Consultants for Ohio River Bridges Project (June 17, 2004) [Outside Link], Business First: Consultants picked for Ohio River Bridges Project (June 14, 2004) [Outside Link]

Additionally, Kentucky and Indiana are soliciting for bids for a contract to design the bridges: Courier-Journal: State to seek bids on designs for new bridges (June 18, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
I-64/KY 180 Interchange Work Could Begin in 2005
Posted: 24-Jun-2004 1:31AM CDT

The Ashland Daily Independent reports that right-of-way acquisition and utility relocation work will soon begin for the I-64/KY 180 interchange reconstruction project. Tentative plans are for construction to start next year and finish in 2007: Ashland Daily Independent: Changes in store for interchange (June 11, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Winchester’s Van Meter Road/I-64 to Receive Upgrade
Posted: 24-Jun-2004 1:29AM CDT

Property acquisition for the reconstruction of the I-64/KY 1958 interchange in Winchester is likely to begin soon: Winchester Sun: Work on I-64 facing delays (June 7, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Four Kentucky Road Sites Ranked in Top 223 Highway Bottleknecks
Posted: 24-Feb-2004 10:35AM CST

Four locations across Kentucky have been identified as major highway bottlenecks by the National Highway Users Alliance.

The Brent Spence Bridge is ranked as the 24th bottleneck nationwide.

One of the interchanges between I-264 and I-64 in Jefferson County is ranked 119. These roads actually meet twice, but the report does not seem to specify which interchange this is.

The interchange between I-71/I-75 and I-275 in Kenton County ranks 150.

The I-64, I-65, and I-71 “Spaghetti Junction” interchange in Jefferson County ranked 163.

The rankings are based on a study of the amount of time drivers spend delayed at these points.

More information: National Highway Users Alliance: America's Worst Bottlenecks and the Benefits of Fixing Them [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
No Projects Cut from Six Year Road Plan, but Some Are Delayed
Posted: 20-Feb-2004 7:35AM CST
Topics: Topic listing supressed. [38 topics related to this item]

Transportation Cabinet Secretary Bailey told state legislators on Wednesday that no projects were cut from this year's version of the Six Year Highway plan; however, some projects have delayed due to the states budget problems.

The list of projects is too long to list here; however, some notable projects are listed below.

  • $118 million for the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridges Project. Some of this money will be raised by selling bonds that would be repaid when promised federal funding is allocated for the project.
  • $78 million for reconstruction of the Owensboro bypass to the east of its current alignment. This is meant to improve access to the William H. Natcher Bridge.
  • Widening of I-64 from Louisville to Shelbyville.
  • Widening of I-65 from the Tennessee State Line to Bowling Green.
  • Widening of I-75 in Scott and Grant counties.
  • Southern extensions of both the Breathitt Pennyrile Parkway and the William H. Natcher Parwkay.

A notable absence from the list is funding for replacing the I-71/I-75 Brent Spence Bridge over the Ohio River; however, the project remains on the unscheduled needs list and officials claim that it is still a priority. Construction on the project is still over a decade away.

This year the transportation cabinet has split the list into projects that will receive federal funding and projects that will not receive federal funding. Projects that will be funded only by the state are expected to be delayed and will be prioritized by need.

Update (Feb. 29, 2004): More information about projects in particular areas can be found here.

[Read Full Text]

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[The Ohio River]
Kentucky, Indiana Form Plan to Encourage Minority Involvement in Ohio River Bridges Project
Posted: 6-Jan-2004 6:47AM CST

Transportation officials from Kentucky and Indiana have adopted a plan to encourage minority-owned business involvement in the construction of two new interstate bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville.

More information: Business First: Kentucky, Indiana form plan to help businesses participate in bridges project (Dec.5, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
New Louisville Bridge Could Affect Waterfront Park
Posted: 3-Nov-2003 2:31AM CST

Plans for a new downtown bridge over the Ohio River at Louisville could disrupt the Waterfront Park.

More information: Courier-Journal: Bridge project design could threaten park (October 21, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Fayette County Residents Complain of Light Pollution from New I-64 Lighting
Posted: 2-Nov-2003 11:46PM CST

Many residents of rural Fayette County have lodged complaints about new high-mast lights on I-64. The lights are said to be visible from two to three miles away.

More information: Lexington Herald-Leader: Longing for the dark (Oct. 1, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[KY 67]
Final Section of the KY 67 Industrial Parkway Opens
Posted: 1-Oct-2003 2:14AM CDT

The section of the Northeastern Kentucky Industrial Parkway between KY 207 and US 23 at Wurtland opened on Thursday, Sept. 25. The two lane highway connecting I-64 to US 23 is intended to provide improved access to industrial development in Greenup County.

More information: Ashland Daily Independent: Industrial Parkway opens today (Sept. 25, 2003) [Outside Link], Ashland Daily Independent: 'It's a 50-year investment' (Sept. 26, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Public Meeting to Discuss Boyd County I-64 Interchange
Posted: 4-Sep-2003 8:41PM CDT

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will hold an open house meeting to discuss changes to the KY 180/I-64 interchange from 5p.m. to 7 p.m. next Thursday, Sept. 11, at Boyd County High School.

More information: Ashland Daily Independent: Changes coming for interchange (Sept. 3, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Kentucky Transportation Research Center Evaluates Traffic Information and Prediction System on I-64
Posted: 30-Aug-2003 7:17PM CDT

The University of Kentucky-based Kentucky Transportation Research Center is conducting a study of a system to provide drivers with up-to-the-minute information about traffic conditions through work zones on I-64 between Louisville and Lexington: KYTC Press Release: TIPS Helps Motorists Get through Highway Work Zones (Aug. 25, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[KY 1958]
I-64/KY 1958 Interchange to be Reconstructed in Clark County
Posted: 13-Aug-2003 11:33PM CDT

Work to widen I-64 in Clark County will soon include work to reconstruct Exit 94, the interchange with KY 1958. The Winchester Sun calls for the Exit 96 interchange with KY 627 to be reconstructed as well; however, no such plans currently exist.

More information: Winchester Sun: 96 interchange needs work, too (Aug. 12, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Work on I-64 Woodford County to Last Until October
Posted: 8-Aug-2003 10:41PM CDT

Diamond-grinding and concrete patching work on I-64 between Midway and the Franklin-Woodford County Line will begin Aug. 10 and will result in lane closures. The work is expected to last until mid-October.

More information: Herald-Leader: Work Begins Sunday on I-64 (Aug. 8, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Community Transportation Solutions Chosen to Lead Louisville Bridges Project
Posted: 25-Jul-2003 9:19PM CDT

Community Transportation Solutions, a Louisville based partnership, has been chosen to manage the 17-year project to construct two new interstate bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville. CTS says it will hold an international competition for the bridge designs, construct both bridges simultaneously, and complete the project in less than 17 years. The project also includes the rebuilding of Louisville's Spaghetti Junction.

The Federal Highway Administration is expected to approve plans for the bridges in August.

The CTS partnership was formed in 1998 to complete the bridge environmental study. The partnership is made up of Parsons Transportation Group of Chicago; HMB Professional Engineers of Frankfort; and Beam, Longest and Neff Engineers of Indianapolis.

More information: Courier-Journal: CTS will manage bridges project; Announcement today is a month ahead of schedule (July 24, 2003) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: CTS will oversee 17-year construction of 2 Ohio River bridges; Representatives promise quick, efficient service project (July 25, 2003) [Outside Link], Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: General Engineering Consultant Selected for Ohio River Bridges Project Development (July 24, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Over Two-hundred Photographs Added
Posted: 25-Jul-2003 11:36AM CDT
Topics: Topic listing supressed. [71 topics related to this item]

Two-hundred-and-sixty-two photographs of Kentucky's roads have been added to this website. The new photo galleries include:

A few new images have been added to the KentuckyRoads.com - Miscellaneous Signs and KentuckyRoads.com - General Images galleries as well.

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[KY 645]
Public Speaks Out About KY 645 Extension
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 10:08AM CDT

Public reaction to extending KY 645 from US 23 near Ulysses west to I-64 is mixed. Some claim it will cause environment havoc; others say it will improve the local economy.

More information: Daily Independent: Public speaks on 645 (June 6, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
I-64 Carter County Rest Area Employees Receive Award
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 5:46AM CDT

The employees of the eastbound I-64 rest area near Grayson in Carter County received 2002 Best Maintained Rest Area Award from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

More information: Ashland Daily Independent: Carter rest area workers honored (Jan. 31, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
KYTC Will Repair Damage to I-64 Near Carter and Rowan County Line
Posted: 3-Mar-2003 11:02PM CST

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will be repairng a collapsing embankment on I-64 near the Carter and Rowan County line. The project is expected to take 6 weeks to complete, and traffic will be down to one lane in each direction.

More information: Daily Independent: I-64 work will divert traffic (Feb. 17, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Ice Storm Closes Louisville Interstates
Posted: 17-Feb-2003 7:44AM CST

An ice storm closed parts of nearly every interstate in the Louisville area on the night of Saturday, February 15. Only I-65 remained completely open. Dozens of accidents were reported including a 24 car pile up on I-64 at Ninth Street in downtown.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet provides up-to-date information on road conditions throughout the commonwealth at www.511.ky.gov [Outside Link].

More information: Courier-Journal: Ice storm closes highways in city; accidents mount (Feb. 16, 2003) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Ice storm packs wintry punch (Feb. 17, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
I-64 Strategic Improvement Plan Released
Posted: 15-Feb-2003 5:53AM CST

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has released the I-64 Strategic Improvement Plan [Outside Link]. The plan covers possible upgrades to the entire length of Interstate 64 through the state.

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[I-64]
I-64 Designated the Purple Heart Trail
Posted: 30-Dec-2002 4:18AM CST

The entire length of I-64 in Kentucky has been designated the Purple Heart Trail. The Military Order of Purple Heart has undertaken an effort to have each of the 50 states and Puerto Rico designate one of their highways to honor recipients of the Purple Heart. Kentucky will erect 24 signs designating the Purple Heart Trail: one at each of I-64's entrances to the state and signs in each county along I-64.

More information: KYTC Press Release [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridge Project Selected for Accelerated Review
Posted: 30-Dec-2002 3:43AM CST

The Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges project has been selected to receive accelerated environmental review.

More information: KYTC Press Release [Outside Link]

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[New Route]
Final Report on Grayson Northeast Connector
Posted: 3-Nov-2002 9:19PM CST

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has posted the final report concerning the construction of a new connector route northeast of Grayson in Carter County.

More information: KYTC Division of Planning [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
KYTC Closes Some Rest Areas; Opens Others
Posted: 6-Sep-2002 10:15PM CDT

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will be closing several rest areas and opening a few new ones over the next few years. Two rest areas on I-64 in Shelby County, three rest areas on I-65 in Warren County and Hart County, and two rest areas on I-75 in Madison County will soon be or have already been closed; however, Kentucky is planning to build two new rest areas on I-65 in Hart County, and a one large rest area to serve both northbound and southbound traffic will be built on I-75 in Madison County. The new Madison County rest area will have parking for 400 cars, 100 trucks, and 13 oversized vehicles.

More information: Courier-Journal: Kentucky will spend millions to open new rest stops (Aug. 31, 2002) [Outside Link]

The article also briefly mentions the rest area on the Mountain Parkway and the service area on the Western Kentucky Parkway.

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[I-65]
Other Presentations: I-64 Weekend Project and I-65 Construction in Warren County
Posted: 3-Aug-2002 3:19AM CDT

There are a couple of more interesting presentations about road projects on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet web site. They can be found here [Outside Link].

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[The Ohio River]
Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridge Project
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 7:16AM CDT

Gov. Paul Patton of Kentucky and Gov. Frank O'Bannon of Indiana announced the preferred routes for a plan to build two new bridges across the Ohio River at Louisville and reconstruct "Spaghetti Junction" in downtown Louisville. The plan must now be approved by the Federal Highway Administration.

The downtown project would reconstruct the intersection of I-64, I-65, and I-71 and move it slightly southward. A new bridge would be constructed just to the east of the existing Kennedy Bridge. The new bridge would carry six-lanes of northbound traffic, and the existing bridge would be reconfigured to carry six-lanes of southbound traffic. The preferred route is known as C-1 in the bridge report.

The second bridge project is east of downtown. The preferred route, known as A-15, is a combination bridge and tunnel designed to avoid neighborhoods and historic structures. It would connect the Gene Snyder Freeway in Kentucky to IN-265 in Indiana. This is the "missing link" in the connection of Indiana's I-265 to Kentucky's I-265.

The project is expected to take 10 years and cost $1.4 billion to complete. Right of way acquisition could begin in two years.

More information: Courier-Journal: States choose bridge routes (July 26, 2002) [Outside Link], Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project [Outside Link]

The Courier-Journal has a special section with articles about the bridges, maps, and videos [Outside Link].

New developments in Indiana's Utica Township cause the count of houses in the path of the bridge to mushroom from 5 to over 75: more developments are planned for coming years. The new housing developments will increase the cost of the bridge project. More information: Courier-Journal: Indiana developments in path boost project cost (July 28, 2002) [Outside Link]

Other bridge information: Courier-Journal: Eminent domain can be hard to contest (July 28, 2002) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Upcoming Public Meetings: I-66, Breathitt Pennyrile Parkway, Other Routes
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 2:26AM CDT

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has scheduled several planning meetings:

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[I-265]
Reconstruction of Gene Snyder Freeway Interchanges with I-64 and Shelbyville Road
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 2:12AM CDT

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will hold a public information session from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on August 15 at Hite Elementary School in eastern Jefferson County to discuss the reconstruction of two interchanges on the Gene Snyder Freeway: one at I-64 and one at Shelbyville Road. Five plans for the interchanges were announced last year. At the meeting, one plan for each interchange will be announced. If there are no serious objections, those plans will become the final plans. Construction could start in 2004 and be complete by 2008.

More information: Courier-Journal: Public can view Snyder interchange plans (July 23, 2002) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
I-64 and Hurstbourne Parkway Interchange to be Reconstructed
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 2:04AM CDT

A project to reconstruct the interchange of Hurstbourne Parkway and I-64 in eastern Jefferson County is planned to begin in 2006. The interchange is currently one of the most congested and accident prone interchanges in Jefferson County. The reconstructed interchange will eliminate left turns across Hurstbourne Parkway and add ramps to Linn Station Road. The project has been dubbed "The Big Fix."

More information: Courier-Journal: 'Big fix' planned at Hurstbourne interchange (July 5, 2002) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Two Favored Routes Emerge for New Louisville Bridges
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 1:44AM CDT

Favored routes for two new bridges over the Ohio River have emerged from a group of citizens and officials conducting a study for the Ohio River Bridges Project. Although a final recommendation won't come until next month, alternative C-1 for a downtown bridge and alternative A-15 for an eastern bridge are the clear favorites.

The favorite route for a downtown bridge, C-15, would involve building a new bridge just east of I-65's Kennedy Bridge. Spaghetti Junction, the intersection of I-64, I-65, and I-71, would be rebuilt to accommodate the new bridge and relieve congestion on the interstate. Spaghetti Junction would be shifted to the south. This move would affect the Butchertown and Phoenix Hill neighborhoods in Louisville. The Indiana approach to the bridge would affect downtown Jeffersonville. The designers of Louisville's Riverfront Park anticipated the construction of alternative C-1 into their design for the park. The cost of the project is estimated to be $2 billion and would take 10 years to complete.

The favorite route for the new eastern Jefferson County bridge, A-15, manages to bypass Prospect, KY and Utica, IN to the delight of both communities. The route would connect to the current terminus of the Gene Snyder Freeway at US 42 in Jefferson County pass to the south of Prospect, cross the Ohio River, swing to the north of Utica, IN, and connect to Indiana Route 265. This route involves the construction of a tunnel on the Kentucky to minimize impact on the historic Drumanard Estate. If built this would connect the Kentucky I-265 to Indiana's I-265.

More information: Courier-Journal: Two bridge routes emerge as favorites (June 27, 2002) [Outside Link], Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project: Maps and Descriptions [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Procurement Bulletins
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 1:32AM CDT

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Division of Professional Services has posted several procurement bulletins [Outside Link]. Even if you aren't a contractor, these bulletins are useful for learning about upcoming road projects. Recent bulletins include:

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[New Route]
Northeastern Kentucky Industrial Parkway Expected to Open in August
Posted: 5-May-2002 2:29AM CDT

According to this article [Outside Link] from the Ashland Daily Independent the third and final phase of the Northeastern Kentucky Industrial Parkway is expected to open by August. The 14 mile two-lane road known as KY 67 will connect I-64 to the EastPark industrial site.

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[The Ohio River]
Spaghetti Junction Redesign Could Threaten Butchertown
Posted: 15-Apr-2002 4:56PM CDT

A redesign of Spaghetti Junction, the interchange between I-65, I-64, and I-71 in Louisville, which is planned as part of the Ohio River bridge project could affect the Louisville neighborhood of Butchertown. Local residents are seeking to have the area designated as a preservation district.

More information: Courier-Journal: Spaghetti Junction redesign proposals worry Butchertown [Outside Link]

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[I-71]
I-71 Project Faces Environmental Critics
Posted: 24-Mar-2002 2:56PM CST

Environmental concerns may delay work on widening I-71 and I-64 in Eastern Louisville. The Federal Highway Administration is requiring Kentucky officials to conduct a full environmental assessment with a plan to widen Interstate 71. Local environmentalists suggest that widening the road will adversely affect the area and suggest the construction of a light rail system or having employers change work hours. Others suggest that a light rail system is too expensive and that commuters will continue to drive.

I-71 is currently scheduled to be widened beginning in 2007, and the I-64 widening project is more than a decade into the future. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet plans to widen I-71 to six lanes from I-64 to the Gene Snyder Freeway. The current four lane highway is near its design capacity. The FHWA originally approved the plan, but is now concerned that six lanes may not be sufficient to handle projected 20-year traffic.

Congestion on interstates is measured using a grade system with A being the least congested and E being the most congested. Part of I-71 is graded D.

The 10-mile project is estimated to cost $40 million.

More information: WAVE3: Commuters Want Interstates Widened, Environmentalists Say No [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Aldermen back study of alternatives to I-71 project [Outside Link], Messenger-Inquirer: Environmental worries may delay or derail I-71 project [Outside Link] (no longer online), Cincinnati Enquirer: I-71 project near Louisville may face delay [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Widening of I-71 faces delay; study, alternatives requested [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Redesign of I-64/KY 180 Interchange Under Consideration
Posted: 4-Mar-2002 9:39PM CST

According to this article [Outside Link] from the Ashland Daily Independent a redesign of the exit 185 on I-64 at KY 180 is being considered. The interchange has been the site of numerous fatalities. If approved by the state legislature, construction could start in 12 to 18 months.

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[New Route]
State May Consider Several Options to Relieve Congestion in Grayson
Posted: 2-Mar-2002 7:22AM CST

After receiving mixed feedback on a proposed connector between Grayson and I-64, the Transportation Cabinet may consider multiple options to relieve congestion in Grayson. See this article [Outside Link] for more information.

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[I-265]
Governors Committed to New Louisville Bridges
Posted: 11-Feb-2002 1:54AM CST

The Courier-Journal reports in this Feb. 10, 2002 article [Outside Link] that the governors of Indiana and Kentucky both still support the proposed bridges over the Ohio River near Louisville.

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Public Meeting: Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridge Projects
Posted: 4-Feb-2002 8:20PM CST

The Courier-Journal reports in this Feb. 4, 2002 article [Outside Link] that public meeting will be held this week to discuss the Louisville-Southern Indiana bridge project. More information about the project can be found at www.kyinbridges.com [Outside Link]. The public is invited to comment on the projects until Feb. 25.

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[New Route]
Public Meeting: New Grayson I-64 Connector
Posted: 30-Jan-2002 2:34AM CST

The KYTC will be holding a public meeting on February 25, 2002 to discuss a possible new connector to I-64 northeast of Grayson. For more information, see here [Outside Link].

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Transportation Spending Bill Passes Both Houses of Congress
Posted: 8-Dec-2001 4:52AM CST
Topics: Topic listing supressed. [35 topics related to this item]

The conference version of the Transportation spending bill [Outside Link] has passed both houses of Congress and is now waiting to be signed by the President.

Kentucky is mentioned several places in the bill:

  • $2,000,000 for an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) providing Eastern Kentucky rural highway information,
  • $750,000 for an ITS for Lexington,
  • $2,000,000 for a statewide transportation operations center,
  • the corridors for I-66 and I-69 have been redefined: I-66 is now defined to use the Nunn Cumberland Parkway and I-69 is now defined to use the Carrol Purchase Parkway,
  • Kentucky may now post signs saying "Future I-69" on the Purchase Parkway and "Future I-66" in the Cumberland Parkway,
  • $4,000,000 for to help access to an industrial park in Clay and Leslie counties,
  • $50,000 for work on Kentucky 55,
  • $1,600,000 for work on Kentucky 192 in McCreary county,
  • $1,000,000 for improvements to the intersection at the end of Grover Carey Bridge in Owensboro,
  • $250,000 for work on Kentucky 61 in Green county,
  • $300,000 for work on Kentucky 92 in Whitley county,
  • $20,000,000 for I-66 (I believe this is the Somerset-London segment.),
  • $2,500,000 for I-66 in Pike County,
  • $320,000 for work on KY 1848 between I-64 and US 60,
  • $1,000,000 for the Monticello Street underpass in Somerset,
  • $1,000,000 for work on the Pennyrile Parkway (I believe this is for the southern extension to I-24),
  • $1,500,000 for work on Stone Coal Road in Johnson county,
  • $2,000,000 for work on US 25 near Renfro Valley,
  • $5,000,000 for work on US 27 between Somerset and KY 70,
  • $80,000 for work on US 27 near Burnside,
  • $850,000 for work on US 431 near Lewisburg,
  • $500,000 for right-of-way for US 60 in Henderson County,
  • $100,000 for work on US 41A,
  • $50,00 for Estill County bypass lighting around Irvine,
  • $300,000 for Estill County industrial park access road,
  • $400,000 for Fegenbush Lane Bridge at Fern Creek,
  • $1,000,000 for Henderson riverfront project,
  • $1,000,000 for engineering work on Kentucky 61 from Kentucky 487 to Columbia,
  • $800,000 for Johnstown Road,
  • $2,350,000 for Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for Regional Trail Improvements,
  • $1,000,000 for improved access to Louisville's water front park,
  • $600,000 for median on US 42 from Harrods Creek to River Road,
  • $1,800,000 for Owensboro Riverfront redevelopment project,
  • $42,600 for Park City sidewalks,
  • $2,000,000 for Somerset downtown revitalization,
  • $6,600,000 for Southern bypass around the southwestern portion of Somerset,
  • $125,000 for Vine Grove sidewalks,
  • $2,000,000 for Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge,
  • $1,400,000 for Cold Hill Road,
  • $995,000 for Craigs Creek Road,
  • $1,500,000 for Daniel Boone Parkway between mileposts 37 and 44,
  • $2,000,000 for Brent Spence Bridge replacement I-75 and I-71 near Cincinnati,
  • $375,000 for work at I-75 Exit 11,
  • $2,500,000 for Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges project,
  • $885,000 for Kentucky Scenic byways (Country Music Highway, Wilderness Road Heritage Highway, Cumberland Cultural Heritage Highway),
  • $30,000,000 for work Appalachian Development Highway System,
  • $4,534,000 for the Kentucky Transportation Department to provide buses, vans, cutaways, and bus facilities in the Commonwealth of Kentucky,
  • $1,500,000 for Big South Fork Scenic Railroad enhancement project, and
  • $5,000,000 for Southern Kentucky Intermodal Transportation Park.

Quite an impressive haul; however, there is no funding for I-175.

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[I-64]
$5.3 Million Bonus for I-64 Draws Criticism
Posted: 25-Nov-2001 2:27PM CST

According to this Courier-Journal article [Outside Link], a $5.3 million bonus awarded to Gohmann Asphalt and Construction for finishing work in I-64 in Jefferson County has drawn criticism for being so large. It is the largest bonus that the KYTC can remember being awarded, and it appears that bonuses for early completion will be smaller in the future.

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[I-65]
Study of New Louisville Area Bridges Released
Posted: 9-Nov-2001 7:45PM CST

The long awaited Draft Environmental Impact Study of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridge Project is complete. The study details several options for recommended improvements, including the no build option, several options for downtown bridge, options for new bridge in eastern Jefferson County, and options considering the effect of two new bridges. A number of public meetings and open houses [Outside Link] have been scheduled. The DEIS can be found here [Outside Link] and articles about the DEIS from the Courier-Journal can be found here [Outside Link].

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[I-64]
Environmentalists Attempting to Block New Morehead Connector
Posted: 29-Oct-2001 8:15PM CST

The Lexington Herald-Leader reports in this Oct. 29, 2001 article [Outside Link] (no longer online) that a group calling themselves Smart Progress is attempting to block the construction of a four lane connector between I-64 and US 60 near Morehead. The group is concerned that the road is not needed and will damage a recreation area in the Daniel Boone National Forest.

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[I-265]
KYTC Studies Traffic Problems on Snyder Freeway
Posted: 17-Oct-2001 3:35PM CDT

The Courier-Journal reports in this Oct. 17, 2001 article [Outside Link] that the KYTC is going to study traffic problems on the Snyder Freeway (I-265), I-64, and Shelbyville Road (US 60) in eastern Jefferson County.

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[I-64]
I-64 Project Finished
Posted: 2-Oct-2001 5:18AM CDT

The Courier-Journal reports in this Oct. 1, 2001 article [Outside Link] that the I-64 rehabilitation project in Louisville is finished. The project was completed several weeks earlier than projected, and the general contractor earned a $5 million bonus for the early finish.

I guess this means I won't have to report about this story anymore. :-)

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[I-64]
I-64 Project in Louisville Likely to End this Weekend
Posted: 27-Sep-2001 4:57PM CDT

According to this Courier-Journal article [Outside Link], the weekend closings of I-64 will likely end this weekend. If so this rehabilitation project will end seven weeks ahead of schedule.

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[I-64]
New Flying J Opens in Cannonsburg
Posted: 5-Sep-2001 9:04PM CDT

The Ashland Daily-Independent reports in this Sept. 5, 2001 article [Outside Link] that a new Flying J has opened off of I-64 in Cannonsburg. Roadgeeks seem to like Flying J's for some reason.

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[I-64]
I-64 in Louisville Will Remain Closed on Labor Day
Posted: 30-Aug-2001 3:35PM CDT

The Courier-Journal reports in this August 30, 2001 article [Outside Link] that I-64 in east Louisville will remain closed on Labor Day. This is part of the weekend closings to repave and refurbish the Cochran Hill Tunnels.

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[I-64]
I-64 Work in Louisville May Finish Early
Posted: 25-Aug-2001 3:23PM CDT

The Courier-Journal reports in this August 25, 2001 article [Outside Link] that due to good weather work on I-64 in Louisville may finish weeks early.

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[I-64]
New Lanes to be Added to I-64 near Lexington
Posted: 23-Aug-2001 12:22AM CDT

The Lexington Herald-Leader reports today in this article [Outside Link] that new lanes are being added to I-64 east of Lexington.

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[I-64]
I-64/US-23 Interchange to be Reconfigured
Posted: 16-Aug-2001 6:14AM CDT

The Ashland Daily Independent reports in this August 14, 2001 article [Outside Link] that changes will be made at the US 23 and I-64 interchange to alleviate congestion caused by coal trucks.

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[I-64]
I-64's Cochran Hill Tunnels will be dark
Posted: 13-Aug-2001 3:36PM CDT

The lights in the Cochran Hill Tunnels on I-64 in Louisville will be off for the next few weeks. The Courier-Journal reports in this August 13, 2001 [Outside Link] article that they are being replaced as part of the repaving work on I-64.

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[I-64]
I-64 Work in Louisville off with a Bang
Posted: 12-Aug-2001 7:07PM CDT

The Courier-Journal reports in this August 12, 2001 article [Outside Link] about the first weekend closing of I-64 for repaving work. They report that there were no delays along the detour routes and describe how the new pavement is designed to reduce traffic noise.

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[I-64]
Group to Fight Proposed Connector in Morehead
Posted: 10-Aug-2001 5:13PM CDT

The Ashland Daily Independent reported in this August 9, 2001 [Outside Link] article that a group in Morehead plans to fight a proposed I-64 connector there. The connector would help to alleviate traffic in Morehead; however, the citizens are considered that it would adversely affect the environment.

Thanks to Sherman Cahal [Outside Link] for pointing out this article.

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[I-64]
Repaving to Close Part of I-64 in Louisville on Weekends
Posted: 2-Aug-2001 4:02PM CDT

The Courier-Journal (Louisville) reports in this August 2, 2001 article [Outside Link] that I-64 from Grinstead Drive to the Watterson Expressway will be closed for 15 consecutive weekends starting on August 10th. During the closings the roadway will be repaved and the Cochran Hill Tunnel will be repaired. This is the first thorough repaving of the highway since it opened in 1970. Traffic will be routed around the closing on I-264 (Watterson Expressway) and I-71. A map of the project area is included.

Information on the project from the KYTC can be found here [Outside Link].

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