On March 16, 2021, representatives from consulting group Michael Baker international, the Bowling Green-Warren County Metropolitan Planning Organization, and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet conducted a virtual public meeting to discuss early planning for construction of a new interchange on I-65 in Southern Warren County. Such an interchange would fill a fourteen mile gap between the interchange at Exit 6 in Simpson County and the I-165 interchange at Exit 20 in Bowling Green. Three potential alternatives under consideration are at KY 240 (Woodburn Allen Springs Road), KY 242 (Richpond Road), or at Carter Sims Road. Improving connections with US 31W (Nashville Road) and KY 622 (Plano Road) are also being considered. Construction of any such interchange is believed to be eight to twelve years away.

More information:

• Bowling Green Daily News: Woodburn area grades best on I-65 interchange study (March 17, 2021) 
• I-65 Interchange Feasibility Study 

From Kentucky Transporation Cabinet Department of Highways District 3 (Sept. 14, 2012):

District 3 Traffic Impact Report

 KYTC District 3:  Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, Todd and Warren Counties

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From Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Department of Highways District 4: 

I-65 Safety Improvements Will Begin Next Week South Of Elizabethtown

ELIZABETHTOWN, KY (May 25, 2012) – Median cable barriers are being installed along a two-lane section of Interstate 65 from the Hart/LaRue County line extending north approximately six miles into Hardin County (MP 74 – MP 80).  Once this work is completed, continuous cross over crash prevention measures will be in place from the current three-lane widening project in Barren County to just south of Elizabethtown.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet awarded George B. Stone Company, LLC the project contract on April 27^th of this year in the amount of $368,440.  Ninety percent of the contract amount is federally funded.

Work is expected to begin on Tuesday, allowing Memorial Day Weekend travelers to pass through the area without lane closures.  During the project, northbound and southbound inside shoulders will be closed.  Left (inside) lane closures will also be in place for both directions while contract crews pour concrete for the project.  Lane closures will only be allowed from 8pm Sunday through 11am Thursday.  All lanes will be open for weekend traffic, however shoulders will remain closed and workers may still be present.  Northbound and Southbound delays will be possible Monday through Wednesday during peak afternoon traffic hours.  Traffic updates are available at 511.ky.gov or from your phone by dialing 511.

Motorists are reminded that speed limits are reduced from 70 to 55mph through the work zone and double fines are in effect.

The project agreement specifies that to avoid penalties, the contractor must complete the median cable barrier installation by June 26^th, 2012.

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Work continues to progress on the construction of a Single-Point Urban Interchange  at I-65 exit 22—the interchange with Scottsville Road—in Warren County. From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Department of Highways District 3:

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (Aug. 30, 2012) – Motorists are advised to use caution and reduced speeds while traveling across the Scottsville Road/ US 231 interchange this evening between 8:00 pm and 6:00 am as crews shift traffic for both north and southbound directions on the bridge deck.

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From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and Indiana Department of Transportation (Apr. 20, 2012):

Kentucky, Indiana announce federal approval of Supplemental Final Environmental Impact Statement for Ohio River Bridges Project
Implements cost-saving measures, new Record of Decision expected mid-June

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (April 20, 2012) – The Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges project, designed to bring unprecedented improvements in cross-river mobility for the entire region, took a giant step forward today with federal approval of a new environmental impact statement.

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The 2012-2014 Biennial Highway Construction Plan which was recently passed by Kentucky's House of Representatives would fund the widening of I-65 between Horse Cave and Elizabethtown and the construction of a new I-65 interchange to serve the Kentucky Trimodal Transpark in Warren County. The bill must now be considered by the state senate: Bowling Green Daily News: Bill would fund local road work (March 18, 2012) 

From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet:

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet seeks to intervene
Suit by River Fields, National Trust poses danger of delay, higher cost

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 11, 2011) – To help ensure the Ohio River Bridges Project moves forward, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet today filed a motion to intervene in a lawsuit by River Fields and the National Trust for Historic Preservation against the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

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From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Department of Highways District 3 (Aug. 25, 2010):

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Department of Highways District 3 Office advises motorists to be aware of a permanent lane closure for the right hand lane of southbound Natcher Parkway beginning tomorrow morning at 7 a.m.

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A proposal to toll two bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville have spurred the creation of two opposition groups on Facebook: Louisville Courier-Journal: Groups opposing tolls on Louisville's Ohio River bridges are starting to form (March 23, 2010) 

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Department of Highways District 3 reports that work has begun on extending the Natcher Parkway from its current terminus at I-65 in Bowling Green to near the intersection of Dye Ford Road and US 231. The contract for grade and drainage work was awarded in November to Scotty's Contracting for $29,300,000.

There will be lane restrictions on I-65 from Exit 22 to mile marker 20 for the next year while work is underway on the parkway extension.

Completion of the Revive 65 project to reconstruct the pavement on part of I-65 in Jefferson County will be delayed until January due to additional work required to stabilize the soil below the highway. A nearby project to repair the concrete surface on the Watterson Expressway will be shut down until March or April: Louisville Courier-Journal: Revive 65 completion delayed until late January (Dec. 15, 2009) 

A federal judge has granted to the federal government request to move a lawsuit filed by two groups opposing the project's plan from a federal court in Washington, DC to U.S. District Court for the western district of Kentucky: Louisville Courier-Journal: Bridges lawsuit headed to Kentucky court (Dec. 23, 2009) 

Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear has authorized the sale of $100 million in bonds to start right-of-way purchases for the Ohio River Bridges projects: Louisville Courier-Journal: Governor OKs bond sale to start bridges project property buys (Dec. 18, 2009) 

Gov. Steve Beshear and Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson recently named members to a bi-state authority to oversee the Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project: Louisville Courier-Journal: Bridge authority members named (Oct. 30, 2009) , Associated Press: 7 appointed to bridge panel (Oct. 30, 2009) 

The Courier-Journal reports that concrete and other material being removed from I-65 and I-264 Watterson Expressway projects in Jefferson County is being used in reclamation projects in area quarries. The material is unsuitable for direct recycling so it is being used as fill material: Louisville Courier-Journal: Road projects take fill back to nature; Material from I-264 and I-65 repairs going into Natural Products quarry (Oct. 31, 2009) 

From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet:

Work on northbound Interstate 65 to continue through mid-October
Additional sub-grade repairs needed to support roadway

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Oct. 5, 2009) — Work on northbound Interstate 65 will continue a week longer than expected because of the discovery that ground beneath the road surface – an area known as the sub-grade – is unstable and requires extensive repairs.

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For the second straight year Kentucky and Indiana failed to meet a federal deadline to update the cost of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project: Louisville Courier-Journal: Bridges financing plan misses second annual deadline (Oct. 6, 2009) 

Work to replace the pavement on part of I-65 in Jefferson County is underway and causing some travel delays: Louisville Courier-Journal: I-65 work creates snarls (Sept. 22, 2009) 

During a recent visit to Louisvlle, Gov. Steve Beshear updated the status of a number of road projects in the area. These include:

• The construction of an interchange between KY 1447 Westport Road and I-264 Watterson Expressway.
• Widening of I-64 from I-265 Gene Snyder Freeway to Exit 28 in Shelby County.
• Median cable barrier installation along I-65.
• Reconstruction of a ramp at the interchange between I-64 and I-264 Shawnee Expressway west of downtown.
• Pavement repairs along various stretches of interstate.

More information: Louisville Courier-Journal: Beshear recaps road projects in Louisville area; $200M in work started or planned (Sept. 18, 2009) 

From the Office of Governor Steve Beshear:

Governor Beshear announces $28.7 million in improvements for Interstate 65
Among major construction projects under way or planned for Louisville area

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Sept. 16, 2009) — Gov. Steve Beshear, joined by Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson, today announced the beginning of a major construction project to repair the pavement on Interstate 65 in Jefferson County.

The $28.7 million project – “Revive 65” – involves the replacement of concrete pavement with asphalt on the 3-mile section of interstate between Fern Valley Road and I-264 (Watterson Expressway). It is among a dozen road and bridge projects, totaling more than $195 million, under way or planned for the Louisville area.

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The Louisville-based conservation group River Fields and the national preservation organization National Trust for Historic Preservation have files suit in federal court claiming that the Federal Highway Administration broke the law in its 2003 approval of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridges Project: Louisville Courier-Journal: River Fields lawsuit could halt Ohio River Bridges Project (Sept. 10, 2009) , Associated Press: Suit seeks to halt bridges project (Sept. 10, 2009) 

The Courier-Journal printed two letters to the editor in opposition to the lawsuits: Louisville Courier-Journal: Bridges lawsuit is criticized (Sept. 16, 2009) 

A new bi-state negotiating team met today in Louisville to discuss the creation of a bridge authority to oversee financing of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridges Project: Louisville Courier-Journal: Ky., Ind. panel recommends bi-state bridges oversight (Sept. 15, 2009) , Louisville Courier-Journal: Ohio River bridges project negotiators will meet Tuesday (Sept. 14, 2009) , Louisville Courier-Journal: Bridges negotiating team to meet Tuesday (Sept. 11, 2009) 

• Kentucky and Indiana have both appointed representatives to a group that will negotiate issues related to the Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project: Louisville Courier-Journal: Ky. negotiators named to establish bridges' authority (Aug. 17, 2009) , Associated Press: Beshear, Abramson appoint negotiators for bridges (Aug. 18, 2009) 

• Concerns over financing the bridges project could limit the ability to move quickly on other transportation projects: Louisville Courier-Journal: Bridges delay risks flexibility for smaller projects; December deadline looms for transportation projects (Aug. 18, 2009) 

• The Courier-Journal ran an editorial cartoon depicting the bridges project's looming December funding deadline: Louisville Courier-Journal: The Bridge to No Way (Aug. 22, 2009) 

Paving this week on I-65 in southern Warren County should signal the near completion of the project to widen the Interstate two three lanes in each direction through all of Warren County. From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Department of Highways District 3 on August 17, 2009:

Paving operations for I-65 in south Warren County

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Kentucky Transportation crews will be paving this week on the interstate between mile markers 15 and 20 (from north Simpson County to just south of the Natcher Parkway interchange) from 6 am until 7 pm.

Two lanes of traffic will be open in each direction.

Motorists are advised to use caution and be alert for trucks entering and exiting the work site along this area.

Update Aug. 24: The Daily News published an article about the I-65 widening project: Bowling Green Daily News: Expanded I-65 should be completed by end of Sept. (Aug. 24, 2009) , Associated Press: I-65 work to be done by September (Aug. 24, 2009) 

From Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Department of Highways District 3:

I-65 bridge rehabilitation work continues
Surface, joints being replaced on two sets of twin bridges in Hart County

ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (July 14, 2009) — Work to rehabilitate two sets of twin bridges – over Green River and US 31W – continues along Interstate 65 in Hart County.

• Northbound I-65 - Traffic will be pushed down to one lane and motorists can expect long delays while work is done on the northbound bridge over US 31W at mile marker 64. This work will continue around the clock until Thursday, July 16.

• Southbound I-65 - Traffic will be pushed down to one lane and motorists can expect long delays while work is done on the southbound bridge over the Green River at mile marker 61. This work will continue around the clock until Friday, July 24.

There will be a signed detour following US 31W for wide loads during the construction work.

Motorists are asked to use extra caution and may wish to seek alternate routes during this time (US 31W/US 31E).

Travelers can log on to the 511 system at www.511.ky.gov . for additional information about roadway conditions.

From KYTC Department of Highways:

I-65 bridge rehabilitation work continues
Surface, joints being replaced on two sets of twin bridges in Hart County

ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (July 1, 2009) — Work to rehabilitate two sets of twin bridges – over Green River and US 31W – continues along Interstate 65 in Hart County.

• Wednesday, July 1: Traffic will be pushed down to one lane and motorists can expect long delays while work is done on the southbound bridge over US 31W at mile marker 64.
• Thursday, July 2: Work will continue on the southbound bridge over US 31W until 10:00 am.
• Work will restart on Saturday, July 11th for the northbound bridge over the Green River at mile marker 61 at 4:00 pm.

There will be a signed detour following US 31W for wide loads during the construction work.

Motorists are asked to use extra caution and reduce their speed in the area.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has launched a pilot project to improve traffic control at incident scenes along interstate highways. As part of the pilot emergency responders will receive training and a standard kit including warning signs on a fluorescent pink background, portable sign supports, traffic cones, flagger paddles and high visibility safety vests. The initial pilot will be conducted in the Frankfort area and along the I-65 corridor from Franklin to Elizabethtown: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Transportation Cabinet launches pilot project to improve traffic control at incident scenes; Traffic control kits will help emergency responders improve safety (June 30, 2009) 

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet recently began installing cable barriers in the medians of some stretches of interstate. These barriers are intended to stop errant traffic from crossing the median.

From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Office of Public Affairs:

Median cable barrier installation to begin Monday along I-65 in Hardin
Motorists urged to use extra caution in the work zone

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 13, 2009) — Median cable barrier installation along Interstate 65, from mile marker 91 to mile marker 100, in Hardin County, is scheduled to begin Monday, March 16.

The northbound inside shoulder will be closed throughout the project, which is expected to take six to eight weeks. The northbound express lane will be closed intermittently on week days.

Installation of a second section, from mile marker 80 to mile marker 88, will begin as work on the northern section nears completion. That work will also require shoulder and intermittent lane closures. The barrier in both sections will be placed off-center on the northbound side of the median.

The speed limit will be reduced to 55 mph in the work zone and motorists are urged to use extra caution.

The $1.9 million contract, for installation of both sections, was awarded to George B. Stone Company, LLC, of Sharpsburg, Ky.

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The Courier-Journal recently reported that leaders from the two houses of the Kentucky legislature were divided on bills concerning funding the project to build two new bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville; additionally, federal transportation officials say that adding tolls to the bridge will cause an 18 month delay due to plans needing to be reviewed: Louisvlle Courier-Journal: Fate of bridges' funding bill is uncertain; tolls a hitch (March 26, 2009) 

Update (April 1, 2009): Louisville Courier-Journal: Kentucky inaction stalls Indiana bill on bridge projects; Oversight panels in states at issue (April 1, 2009) 

Now that I-65's Kennedy Bridge over the Ohio River has been repainted, an area underneath the bridge that had been used by the repainting contractors is being converted into a picnic area: Louisville Courier-Journal: Picnic area being built under Kennedy Bridge; Tables to offer 'killer view' (March 27, 2009) 

A committee in the Indiana House of Representatives has approved a bill that would create a commission coordinate activities related to the construction of two new Interstate bridges over the Ohio River near Louisville and a new bridge to replace the US 421 bridge over the Ohio River between Milton, KY and Madison, IN.

More information: Associated Press: Commission proposed to focus on Ohio River bridges (Jan. 30, 2009) , Louisville Courier-Journal: Indiana panel may focus on Ohio River bridges (Jan. 30, 2009) 

Update Feb. 12, 2008: The bill has passed in the Indiana House: Louisville Courier-Journal: Ind. House passes bridge commission bill (Feb. 12, 2009) 

This morning at 7:35am the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 3 office in Bowling Green reported that I-65 northbound was completely blocked mile marker 19.5 due to an accident involving a tractor trailer. Motorists traveling on I-65 northbound should consider alternate routes. Exit 6 is the last exit from I-65 before the accident site.

Update: all lanes are now open to traffic

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The Louisville Metro Council is looking for something to name in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. One idea currently being considered is endorsing a bill in the state legislature to name in I-65 in Jefferson County the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Highway: (Louisville) Courier-Journal: King naming ideas sought (Jan. 31, 2007) 

Section 2E.08  of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices states that freeways and expressways should not be signed as memorial highways so it is unclear what effect such a renaming would have.

The number of designs for the two proposed bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville have been narrowed to three apiece: Courier-Journal: Bridge options unveiled (July 19, 2006) , Kentucky-Indiana Bridges: Downtown Bridge Design Alternatives , Kentucky-Indiana Bridges: East End Bridge Design Alternatives 

A project to widen I-65 from the Tennessee state line to Bowling Green is underway: Franklin Favorite: Highway project expected to take several months (June 15, 2006) 

The state will try for a third time to have the I-65 Kennedy Bridge over the Ohio River painted: Courier-Journal: Kennedy bridge looking for yet another painter (May 8, 2006) , Courier-Journal: Kennedy Bridge will just be taupe; To save money, time, 2 colors cut (June 14, 2006) , Associated Press: State Rejects Lone Bid For Kennedy Bridge Painting (June 25, 2006) , Business First of Louisville: Bridge repainting bid comes in over budget (July 21, 2006) 

A shift of funding to the Louisville Bridge Project could delay dozens of other state road projects: Courier-Journal: Bridges plan could delay 80 state road projects; $789 million in federal funds now targeted for Louisville (Feb. 28, 2006) , Danville Advocate-Messenger: Bridge construction could delay U.S. 27 project in Garrard (Feb. 28, 2006) 

Earlier this month, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet cancelled a $17.8 million contract with Atlantic Painting Company for painting Louisville’s Kennedy Bridge. The state claims that Atlantic Painting was making sufficient progress towards completing the bridge repainting project: Courier-Journal: Kennedy Bridge painting deal canceled; State says job only 6 percent complete (Feb. 9, 2006) , Associated Press: State cancels bridge painting company's contract (Feb. 9, 2006) 

A study of I-65 north of the Watterson Expressway in Louisville has resulted in a set of proposed changes to the highway: Courier-Journal: $54 million revamp of I-65 ramps urged; Prospects of state paying for idea are uncertain (Jan. 29, 2006) 

Atlantic Painting Co., the contractor responsible for painting the I-65 Kennedy Bridge over the Ohio River at Louisville, recently walked off the project. The company claims that the weather is too cold for painting. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is unsure when work will resume: Courier-Journal: Painting work stops on Kennedy Bridge; State, company will discuss finishing job (Dec. 10, 2005) , Courier-Journal: State might extend deadline for painting Kennedy Bridge (Jan. 8, 2006) 

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) , Courier-Journal: Public will get chances to see ideas for bridge; Two hearings set on downtown span (Nov. 28, 2005) , Courier-Journal: Downtown bridge ideas unveiled; Public provides feedback on designs (Nov. 30, 2005) , Courier-Journal: Bridge designs to be unveiled; Public can see how eastern span may look (Dec. 11, 2005) , Courier-Journal: Spaghetti Junction debated; Forum explores removing I-64 (Jan. 12, 2006) 

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) 

A recent river cruise allowed are leaders to view the potential paths of the new Ohio River bridges at Louisville: Jeffersonville Evening News: Cruise gives insight on bridge routes (Oct. 7, 2005) , Courier-Journal: Two meetings will seek ideas on design of East End bridge; Open houses set for today, Thursday (Oct. 18, 2005) , Jeffersonville Evening News: Area residents weigh-in on east-end bridge design (Oct. 19, 2005) , Courier-Journal: A recipe to rebuild Spaghetti Junction; Untangling plan will be unveiled this week (Oct. 23, 2005) , WAVE 3: Spaghetti Junction Makeover Projected To Cost $1.1 Billion (Oct. 28, 2005) 

Two companies have been fined for safety violations relating to an accident that caused the death of a worker on the Kennedy Bridge Painting project: Louisville Courier-Journal: 2 companies fined in fatal fall from bridge (Sept. 21, 2005) 

Recently, members of the public had the opportunity to express their opinion on the design of the two proposed bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville.

More information: Louisville Courier-Journal: Public to get say on new bridge design; Downtown span's style, fit are topics (Sept. 19, 2005) , Courier-Journal: Residents' thoughts vary on downtown bridge (Sept. 21, 2005) , Courier-Journal: Thoughts on bridge flow freely at meeting; 'Spectacular' span? Low-maintenance? (Sept. 21, 2005) 

In other Louisville bridge related news, Indiana officials are urging that the proposed East End bridge be built before the downtown bridge: Louisville Courier-Journal: Eastern bridge priority urged; Officials say it will have greater economic impact (Sept. 29, 2005) 

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) 

Contractors have encountered a problem with “surface scale” while repainting the I-65 bridge over the Ohio River. The rust-laced surface scale is proving harder to remove from the bridge than originally expected.

More information: Courier-Journal: Kennedy repainting faces new obstacle; 'Surface scale' on bridge proves difficult to remove (July 2, 2005) , Courier-Journal: State won't pay more for bridge work (July 7, 2005) 

There was also some sad news related to the repainting project. A worker died after falling from the bridge: Courier-Journal: Kennedy Bridge worker killed in fall (July 15, 2005) , Courier-Journal: Setbacks again mar Kennedy bridge painting; Company says it needs more time, money to finish the job (Aug. 27, 2005) 

The state has promised to widen I-65 at the KY 100 interchange (exit 6) to improve access to a new commercial development.

More information: Bowling Green Daily News: State agrees to widen I-65 for Garvin project (June 8, 2005) 

Work to rebuild I-65 in Indiana just north of the Ohio River was nearing completion late last month. At that point the project was running seventeen months behind schedule and 17% above the original budget: Louisville Courier-Journal: I-65 work is all but finished; Construction delayed, runs over original cost (May 24, 2005) 

Part of the Kennedy Bridge is being sandblasted in preparation for repainting: Courier-Journal: Sandblasting preps bridge; Kennedy span soon will get its long-awaited paint job (April 21, 2005) 

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) 

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) 

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) 

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) 

WBKO 13 is reporting that work to widen I-65 from the Tennessee State Line to Warren County is expected to begin this summer: WBKO 13: Interstate 65 Set to Expand (March 30, 2005) 

Work to rebuild the I-65 bridges over the Salt River in Bullitt County has been causing gridlock throughout the area: WAVE 3: Gridlock Caused By I-65 Construction Affecting Area Drivers, Businesses (March 30, 2005) 

A recent study by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet identifies several alternatives for the proposed I-66 in Warren County and a new Bowling Green beltline route.

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Rolling road blocks were in place along I-65 between mile point 36 and mile point 43 this morning for utility work by Warren Rural Electric.

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A wreck this morning at I-65 mile marker 51 has forced the closure of I-65 southbound at exit 53 (KY 90). A detour has been posted. Up-to-date information on traffic conditions can be found at: www.511.ky.gov 

Work to widen US 68/KY 80 beginning at the intersection with US 31W north of Bowling Green is being done on an accelerated basis and being paid for with discretionary funds. The $2.5 million project is likely a prelude to the construction of a new interchange with I-65 to serve the new Kentucky TriModal Transpark. Completion of the widening is scheduled for May 15.

Work is also planned to begin soon to reconstruct KY 101 near the Warren County-Edmonson County line.

More information: Bowling Green Daily News: Traffic changes being planned (Feb. 7, 2005) , WBKO: U.S.68 SAFETY PROJECT GROUNDBREAKING (FEB. 7, 2005) 

Land in the path of the proposed bridge east of downtown Louisville is being developed, partially because of Kentucky’s laws governing right-of-way acquisition. Under Kentucky law, if land is condemned for the purchase of a highway, the original owner may repurchase it at the sale price if the land isn’t used in eight years.

More information: Courier-Journal: Land develops in bridge's path as state waits (Jan. 23, 2005) , Associated Press: Couple's dream home going up in path of proposed bridge (Jan. 23, 2005) 

State Rep. Rob Wilkey believes that work to widen I-65 from the Tennessee state line to Bowling Green could begin this spring. He also has high hopes for a project to widen US 31W from KY 1008 south of Franklin to the Tennessee state line: Franklin Favorite: 'Road projects a go,' Rep. Wilkey says (Jan. 20, 2005) 

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) , Associated Press: Motorist should use caution traveling (Dec. 26, 2004) 

Current information regarding highway conditions can be found at: www.511.ky.gov .

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) , Associated Press: Kentuckians continue to dig out of snow (Dec. 24, 2004) , Associated Press: State making progress on western Kentucky roads (Dec. 25, 2004) , Cincinnati Enquirer: Some still without power, roads cleared (Dec. 25, 2004) 

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

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) 

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) 

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

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) , Associated Press: Some Roads Reopening After Record Snow (Dec. 24, 2004) , Evansville (Ind.) Courier & Press: A long stranded trip (Dec. 24, 2004) , New Albany (Ind.) Tribune: City struggles to keep streets clear as snow piles up (Dec. 24, 2004) , Associated Press: Interstates reopen to travelers in Midwest (Dec. 25, 2004) , Evansville Courier & Press: Snow gives travelers tales to tell (Dec. 25, 2004) , Associated Press: Some Indiana highways remained slick but passable after snow (Dec. 25, 2004) , Associated Press: Indiana highways slick but passable (Dec. 26, 2004) 

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

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

Two days after a winter storm dumped record amounts of snow and ice on much of western and northern Kentucky, the commonwealth is still recovering. As of the time of this writing, the state highway information system reports that I-24 remains closed between Exit 25 (the Jullian M. Carroll Purchase Parkway in Marshall County) and Exit 65 (US 68/KY 80 in Trigg County). Kentucky’s other interstates and parkways are open; however, many stretches remain ice covered and the shoulders are dotted with abandoned vehicles. WBKO in Bowling Green reports that traffic is moving very slowly on I-65 and that the highway is still covered in ice near Elizabethtown. In many places, secondary roadways remain covered by snow and ice, and many roads are impassible.

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

More information: Courier-Journal: The big chill: Cold expected to hinder cleanup after storm (Dec. 24, 2004) , Courier-Journal: National Guard called to help stranded motorists (Dec. 24, 2004) , Courier-Journal: Road crews, others struggle to clear roads, unclog snarls (Dec. 24, 2004) , Lexington Herald-Leader: Traffic woes, power outages across state are storm's legacy (Dec. 24, 2004) , The (Henderson) Gleaner: Many autos abandoned; even highway crews having tough time (Dec. 24, 2004) , Associated Press: Stranded vehicles block part of I-64 (Dec. 24, 2004) , Cincinnati Enquirer: 'Cut in the hill' unkindest in snow; Interstate 71/75 bottleneck snares traffic for hours (Dec. 24, 2004) , Murray Ledger & Times: Snow causes plenty of headaches (Dec. 23, 2004) , (Hopkinsville) Kentucky New Era: White Christmas; Still slow going on snowy roads (Dec. 24, 2004) , Courier-Journal: Buses go where snowbound drivers fear to tread (Dec. 24, 2004) , The (Henderson) Gleaner: Santa on a tractor: Residents shovel, cope, and help each other (Dec. 24, 2004) 

A project to reconstruct 10 miles of I-65 in Southern Indiana is expected to be completed in January—two months behind schedule. The project, which began in 1999, widened the interstate and improved several interchanges between the Kentucky state line and mile marker 0.

More information: WAVE-3: Completion Of I-65 Improvement Project In Southern Indiana Delayed (Dec. 16, 2004) , Indiana Department of Transportation: Revive 65 

Consultants discuss how the new Louisville Downtown bridge will change access to I-65 and the US 31 Clark Memorial Bridge in Jeffersonville, Indiana: The (Jeffersonville, Ind.) Evening News: City faces new traffic pattern with new Ohio River Bridge (Dec. 10, 2004) 

The October 2004 and the 2004 Year-in-Review editions of the transportation cabinet’s newsletter have been posted to the KYTC Konnection page .

Among stories covered in the October 2004 edition are:

• The SAFE program that aids broken down motorists.
• Information about a KYTC employee’s trip to Russia to participate in an engineering exchange program.
• Coverage of the installation of new “Move Over or Slow Down for Stopped Emergency Vehicle” signs.
• Coverage of ceremonial beginning of the Kennedy Bridge repainting project.
• A story about KYTC employees rescuing a cat from an Ohio River bridge.
• Information about the opening of a reconstructed segment of US 421 in Harlan County.

Download: [Transportation Konnection – October 2004] (2.51 MB)

Among stories covered in the 2004 Year-in-Review edition are:

• Information and photographs of work on I-66 in Pulaski County.

Download: [Transportation Konnection – 2004 Year-in-Review] (2.32 MB)

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce would like to see studies to determine the feasibility of upgrading to the Audubon and Natcher Parkways to Interstate spur routes. The Audubon Parkway would be a spur route off of the proposed I-69 in Henderson County, and the Natcher Parkway would be a spur route off of I-65 in Warren County.

While most of the parkway system consists of four-lane divided limited access highways, most of the parkway system does not meet modern interstate standards. Among the problems are medians that are too narrow, shoulders that are too narrow, not enough open space along the side of the highway, and overpasses that are too low. An upgrade of any parkway to Interstate standards would be an expensive undertaking.

More information: Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer: Audubon eyed as I-69 spur (Dec. 2, 2004) 

The city of Bowling Green recently unveiled a 25 year plan for major thoroughfares through the city and surrounding county. Plans include widening most roads into the city and construction of new routes along the edges of the city including a new beltline highway.

More information: Bowling Green Daily News: Manager: City roads in dire need of changes (Nov. 16, 2004) , Bowling Green Daily News: Metro status leads to needs assessment (Nov. 17, 2004) 

The engineering firm Michael Baker Jr. Inc. has been chosen to design the new downtown bridge that is part of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridges Project. Designs for the bridge will eventually be presented at public meeting and displayed on www.kyinbridges.com . Construction is tentatively expected to begin in 2007.

More information: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Press Release (Oct. 29, 2004) , The (Jeffersonville, IN) Evening News: Michael Baker Jr., Inc. firm to design downtown bridge (Oct. 29, 2004) , Louisville Courier-Journal: Pennsylvania company will design bridge (Oct. 30, 2004) 

The idea of tolling the two new proposed bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville came to the forefront in Indiana's 9th District congressional race; however, the possibility of tolling the bridges is not currently being considered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Courier-Journal: Toll idea captures campaign in Indiana (Oct. 26, 2004) , (Jeffersonville, Ind.) Evening News: Hill, Sodrel battle over bridge tolls (Oct. 26, 2004) 

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has selected an engineering firm to discuss ways to improve access between I-65 and the southern Hardin County town of Glendale: Hardin County News Enterprise: Glendale project takes another step (Oct. 20, 2004) 

The ceremonial painting of a beam at Louisville’s Waterfront Park marked the beginning of a multi-year project to repaint I-65’s bridge over the Ohio River. The bridge will be painted in a scheme consisting of three colors: green, beige and chestnut brown. The project is also being staged in such away to limit the impact on motorists. Usually, at most one lane in either direction will be closed; however, two lanes may be closed between the hours of 1am-5am throughout the duration of the project. The pain job is expected to last for 30 to 40 years.

More information: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Ceremonial Painting On Louisville's Kennedy Bridge Marks Beginning Of Project (Oct. 14, 2004) 

After years of delays and scandals, another project to repaint the Kennedy Bridge over the Ohio River at Louisville has begun. The $8.7 million project has a deadline of July 31, 2006. The bridge was last painted in the 1970s.

More information: Courier-Journal: Kennedy Bridge paint job starts (Oct. 8, 2004) 

Five of the nation’s largest bridge designers will submit designs for the two new bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville. Area leaders want the bridges to be signature pieces that help define the Louisville metropolitan area. Designs for the new bridges are expected to be chosen this fall: Courier-Journal: Top firms compete to design 2 new bridges (Sept. 13, 2004) 

Courier-Journal columnist Bob Hill asked his readers to send him essays describing designs for the bridge: Courier-Journal: Bridge design needs some local flavor (Sept. 14, 2004) 

Before being reconstructed and widened, a section of I-65 in northern Warren County had been known as Death Valley. Now that the highway has been reconstructed safety has been improved; however, there have been several accidents involving standing water in the northbound lanes between mile maker 29 and 30.

More information: Bowling Green Daily News: After fix, I-65 spot still sees trouble (Aug. 31, 2004) 

Work was to begin in late August to repaint the Kennedy Bridge. The project is expected to last until August 2006.

More information: Business First of Louisville: Long-awaited painting of Kennedy Bridge begins (August 23, 2004) , Courier-Journal: Kennedy Bridge Readied for Painting Project (August 24, 2004) 

Under the terms of a little publicized agreement signed shortly before the bridge’s 1963 opening, Indiana is entitled to pay for half the costs of repainting the I-65 Kennedy Bridge over the Ohio River. Indiana has reimbursed $4 million for costs incurred so far: Courier-Journal: Indiana to split cost of painting I-65 span (July 30, 2004) 

At a July meeting, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet presented a number of ideas for improving traffic flow in and around Bowling Green. The plans include widening portions of I-65, Scottsville Road, and Nashville Road and the construction of new highway corridors that would provided access to the Natcher Parkway and I-65: Bowling Green Daily News: Public gets look at big picture for traffic flow (July 27, 2004) 

In other Warren County news, archaeologists are conducting a study of areas along a planned extension of Veterans Memorial Way into downtown: Bowling Green Daily News: Archaeologists digging through trash to find Bowling Green history (July 27, 2004) 

Kentucky and Indiana have begun soliciting bids for design work related to the two proposed bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville: Business First of Louisville: States seek design for Ohio River Bridges (July 14, 2004) , Courier-Journal: Bridge designs sought (July 15, 2004) 

The State of Indiana has already awarded contracts for the design and engineering of the Indiana bridge approaches: Business First of Louisville: Indiana names contractors for its portion of bridges project (July 26, 2004) 

The Herald-Leader reports that Kentucky will see roadwork on its major interstates for years to come: Lexington Herald-Leader: Expect some delays (July 2, 2004) 

The state currently plans on widening all of I-75 and I-65 and a large section of I-64 to more than four lanes. Work to widen I-75 is currently furthest along: 105 miles of I-75’s 192 miles in Kentucky are currently six lanes or wider.

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) , Business First: Consultants picked for Ohio River Bridges Project (June 14, 2004) 

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) 

That state has awarded a contract to paint the Kennedy Bridge. The winning contract was awarded to Atlantic Painting Co. of Oak Lawn, Ill. That company submitted the low bid at $17,777,777. Work is planned to begin by August, and the deadline for project completion is July 31, 2006. This project will be the largest project ever undertaken by Atlantic Painting.

Painting of the bridge was suspended in 2001 after contractors disclosed a state bridge inspector had been asking for bribes.

More information: Courier-Journal: Contract to be awarded to paint Kennedy Bridge (June 5, 2004) , Associated Press: State Ready to Try to Paint Bridge Again, Two Years After Scandal (June 5, 2004) , Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer: State ready to try to paint bridge again (June 6, 2004) , Lexington Herald-Leader: Bridge of Scandal to Get Paint at Last (June 6, 2004) , Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Painting Contract Awarded for Louisville's Kennedy Bridge (June 17, 2004) , Associated Press: Kentucky awards $17.8 million contract to repaint Ohio River bridge (June 17, 2004) , Courier-Journal: Kennedy Bridge painting due soon (June 18, 2004) 

Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky leaders continue to lobby for the replacement of the Brent Spence Bridge: Kentucky Post: Bridge replacement touted as national priority (April 22, 2004) , Cincinnati Enquirer: Plea made for new I-75 bridge (April 23, 2004) , Cincinnati Enquirer: Bridge plan calls for $15M (April 29, 2004) , Cincinnati Enquirer: Voinovich wants $15M for bridge (April 30, 2004) 

No state budget was passed, so there is no state road plan: Franklin Favorite: Area legislators predict state will have a budget (April 22, 2004) , Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer: No budget means no road plan (April 25, 2004) 

Jim Reis recognizes the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce for its work in securing money to replace the Shortway Bridge: Kentucky Post: A century of boosting business (April 26, 2004) 

Meetings on I-71 widening in Jefferson County bring a variety of opinions: Courier-Journal: Meetings on I-71 plans draw strong opinions (April 28, 2004) 

The Governor has signed a bill to expand the authority of the Buffalo Trace covered bridge authority: Maysville Ledger Independent: Denham sponsored bills signed by governor (April 28, 2004)  Public meetings must now be held before the state does any work to the area’s covered bridges.

A project to widen US 231 in Indiana from the Natcher Bridge to I-64 has begun: Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer: Project to 4-lane U.S. 231 begins (April 29, 2004)  The first five mile segment should be complete in 2 years.

P rospect residents are worried about an intersection on US 42: Oldham Era: Prospect residents seek help with U.S. 42 intersection (April 30, 2004) 

The Transportation Cabinet held a public meeting to discuss a new I-65 connector in northern Warren County: Bowling Green Daily News: Road options for transpark shown (April 30, 2004) 

The Transportation Cabinet was recognized by the US Fish and Wildlife Service for its work in protecting the Eggbert’s Sunflower: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Protects Endangered Eggert's Sunflower (May 3, 2004) 

Repairs were made to I-65 near mile marker 30 to correct a drainage problem: Bowling Green Daily News: Dangerous I-65 spot seeing changes (May 6, 2004) , Bowling Green Daily News: Speedy repairs on interstate are appreciated (May 8, 2004) 

The new US 23 over the Ohio River at South Shore is running “woefully behind:” Ashland Daily Independent: ODOT - Bridge project 'woefully behind' (May 13, 2004)  The new U.S. Grant Bridge is scheduled to open in 2005.

As part of a continuing project to recognize the birthplaces of Kentucky’s musicians signs have recently been erected honoring Ray Goins  and Curley Ray Cline . (Update (Apr. 24): WKYT: Bluegrass Fiddler Honored (Apr. 23, 2004) )

A ceremony has held recently to dedicate the Helen Brown Bridge . Helen Brown was influential in having the Pikeville area bridge built.

The Bowling Green Daily News reports on road projects planned for Warren and surrounding counties: Bowling Green Daily News: Transportation budget on track (April 5, 2004) 

Environmental groups oppose the Louisville Bridges Project, I-66, and other expedited projects: Courier-Journal: Environmental groups critical of bridges project (Apr. 9, 2004) 

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reminds motorists to brake for construction workers .

Kentucky’s State Highway Engineer, James M. “Mac” Yowell, has been inducted to the University of Kentucky’s Engineering Hall of Distinction.

If all goes as planned, by the end of 2005 I-65’s Kennedy Bridge over the Ohio River will be completely repainted for the first time since 1977. Originally the bridge was to be repainted in 1993; however, inspectors found cracks that needed to be repaired before continuing. In 1999, workers began repainting the bridge. The job ended two years later when contractors walked off the job claiming that state inspectors had solicited bribes. One inspector pleaded guilty to federal charges and is serving a six-year jail term.

More information: Courier-Journal: Eyesore bridge up for a paint job (Apr. 1, 2004) 

The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a transportation project authorization bill containing a number of Kentucky projects. Including:

The Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridges Project

• $7 million for continuing the Brent Spence Bridge replacement study
• I-65 connector route in Warren County
• Pennyrile Parkway extension in Christian County
• The Heartland Parkway
• I-66 northern bypass of Somerset

The Senate has passed a similar bill. Differences between the two bills must now be reconciled and passed by both houses before going before the president for his approval or veto.

More information: Courier-Journal: Bill with bridges money held up (Apr. 1, 2004)  , Business First of Louisville: House passes bill with funding for bridges project (Mar. 29, 2004) , Cincinnati Post: $7M for bridge a drop in bucket (Apr. 3, 2004) , Kentucky New Era: $8 million approved for parkway extension (Apr. 3, 2004) , Central Kentucky News-Journal: Parkway is closer to reality (Apr. 4, 2004) 

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that greater Cincinnati area projects are fairing poorly in the bill: Cincinnati Enquirer: Local roads kicked to the curb (Apr. 2, 2004) 

Officials at Bernheim Forest have recently applied for a grant to construct wildlife crossings to allow deer and other wildlife to cross I-65 in Bullitt County. The bridges would be covered in grass and other vegetation so as to appeal to the animals. Such projects have been used to help reduce roadkill rates in other states. The $20 million grant would be supplemented by $5 million from other sources.

More information: Courier-Journal: $25 million wildlife crossings sought for I-65 (March 28, 2004) 

American Engineers, Inc. of Glasgow was recently honored by American Consulting Engineers Council for their work on Cemetery Road widening project in Warren County. They shared the award with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and the City of Bowling Green.

More information: Glasgow Daily Times: American Engineers honored for design work (March 20, 2004) 

When the 2004 Recommended Six-Year Highway Plan was released Transportation Cabinet Secretary Maxwell Clay Bailey assured legislators that no projects had been removed the 2002 Six-Year Plan; however, the Courier-Journal has found that fifteen projects scheduled under the 2002 plan were moved to the unscheduled needs list in the new 2004 plan.

More information: Courier-Journal: 15 projects cut from road plan (March 3, 2004) , WKYT: 15 Kentucky Road Projects Cut Due To Budget Crisis (March 4, 2004) , Hardin County News Enterprise: State drops I-65 widening (March 5, 2004) 

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U.S. Senator Jim Bunning said he may have misspoke when he said that one of the two proposed Ohio River bridges at Louisville would need to be delayed during a conference call on Thursday. He said that work on the two Louisville bridges should not be delayed. Additionally, he said that he hopes plans for the replacement of Northern Kentucky's Brent Spence Bridge are included in the federal six year highway plan.

State Sen. Daniel Mongiardo, a Hazard democrat who hopes to unseat Sen. Bunning, held a meeting to discuss the Brent Spence Bridge replacement project on Thursday. Mongiardo said that he wanted to "get a local feel for what the public's understanding is of the problem of the bridge."

More information: Kentucky Post: Mongiardo to hold bridge discussion (Feb. 26, 2004) , Cincinnati Enquirer: Bunning clarifies stance on bridges (Feb. 27, 2004) , Kentucky Post: Mongiardo: Replace the bridge (Feb. 27, 2004) , Kentucky Post: Bunning behind two spans in Louisville (Feb. 27, 2004) 

The Bowling Green Daily News reports that funding for construction of a southern extension of the Natcher Parkway is included in the proposed six year plan. Initial design work has already been completed for the extension that would stretch for the parkway.s current terminus at I-65 to US 231 near Dye Ford Road.

Additionally, tolls are scheduled to be lifted from the entire length of the parkway once its bonds are repaid in 2007.

More information: Bowling Green Daily News: $20M Natcher extension on road toward construction (Feb. 28, 2004) 

According to an Associated Press story, U.S. Senator Jim Bunning told a Louisville civic group that one of Louisville’s new interstate bridges over the Ohio River will need to be delayed. The Associated Press reports that Sen. Bunning later told a WHAS-TV reporter, “I think it's very important that you get a bridge ... and make sure you decide where you are going to put the first one. And then, you are going to have to wait a year or two or three because we have to divert some money up into northern Kentucky to get that because ours is falling down.”

This shocked Louisville leaders. The two bridges have already been approved by the Federal Highway Administration as a single project, and the proposed state budget has allocated $118 million to continue design work for the bridges. Bunning said that the Louisville will get one bridge and then money will be used to replace the Brent Spence Bridge carrying I-71/I-75 over the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky. Bunning is from Northern Kentucky.

On Saturday, Bunning told a report from Louisville’s Courier-Journal that he never said the second bridge would be delayed and refused to give further comment.

Steve Higdon, president of Greater Louisville Inc, said that he believes Bunning was unaware that the two bridges had been approved as a single project and that as soon Bunning was made aware of this fact it would “put the entire issue to rest.”

More information: Associated Press: Bunning denies saying bridge project should be delayed for N. Kentucky bridge (Feb. 22, 2004) , Courier-Journal: Bunning talk on bridges a shocker (Feb. 22, 2004) 

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 

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.

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Transportation Cabinet Secretary Maxwell Clay Bailey has pledged his support for the Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project; however, he has declined to answer question about how much funding will be included for the project in the next Six-Year Highway Plan. The plan is expected to be released later this week. Bailey’s refusal to answer has raised concern among some bridge supporters that the state will not fully fund its required share of the bridge construction costs.

More information: Courier-Journal: State official pledges support for bridges (Feb. 10, 2004) 

Sen. Mitch McConnell helped to secure $7.25 million in funding for transportation work related to the Bowling Green Transpark. Funded projects include a new I-65 interchange and improvements to US 68/KY 80.

More information: Russellville News-Democrat & Leader: McConnell secures funds for Kentucky Transpark (Feb. 3, 2004) 

Update (Feb. 7, 2004): More information: Associated Press: Transpark lines up $212 million first tenant (Feb. 5, 2004) 

Former Governor Louie B. Nunn (1924-2004) died of heart failure yesterday, Thursday, January 29, 2004. He was 79. Gov. Nunn is remembered, among other things, for his contribution to the state's highway system. He proposed building roads connecting the state from east-to-west; during his term as governor from 1967-1971 more toll road bonds were issued to pay for highway construction than during the previous two administrations.

During his term of office, I-65, I-71, and I-75 were completed; a total of 585 miles of interstate highways were opened; and the Audubon Parkway and Daniel Boone Parkways were approved for construction. Additionally, planning work for the Cumberland Parkway and Green River Parkway (now Natcher Parkway) began.

More information: Courier-Journal: Former governor, force in GOP, dies (Jan. 30, 2004) , Associated Press: Highlights of Nunn's Term (Jan. 30, 2004) , Associated Press: Former Gov. Louie B. Nunn dead at 79 (Jan. 30, 2004) , Associated Press: GOP pioneer Nunn dead (Jan. 30, 2004) , Kentucky Post: Nunn legacy remembered here (Jan. 30, 2004) 

State Representative Jodie Haydon, D-Bardstown, is attempting to develop a tourist railway between the Kentucky Railway Musuem in New Haven and Lebanon Junction off of I-65. Such a train faces a number of hurdles, including obtaining permission from CSX to use the line.

More information: (Bardstown) Kentucky Standard: Plans underway to develop potential tourist railway between county, I-65 (Jan. 28, 2004) 

The University of Louisville will undertake a $150,000 of traffic conditions around their Belknap Campus. Of primary concern are a low underpass on Third Street, traffic on Eastern Parkway, and improving access to the campus from I-65.

More information: Courier-Journal: U of L gives its $150,000 traffic study the green light (Jan. 25, 2004) 

Former Radcliff Mayor Jennings Smith died last Sunday while on vacation in Florida. Smith, who served from 1990 to 1998, was a major force behind the construction of KY 313 which connected the city to I-65.

More information: Hardin County News-Enterprise: EDITORIAL: Jennings Smith never sought the spotlight, but his light shone brightly (Jan. 21, 2004) 

A new I-65 interchange for the Kentucky Tri-Modal Transpark, an Outer Loop around Bowling Green, and construction of I-66 are among plans discussed by Bowling Green leaders following a Citizen.s Summit last November.

More information: Bowling Green Daily News: Development city officials. main focus for coming years (Jan. 15, 2004) 

Work to repaint the I-65 Kennedy Bridge over the Ohio River may soon resume. The transportation cabinet plans to let bids for the project this month.

Work to repaint the bridge was stopped in October of 2001 after it was revealed that a transportation cabinet bridge inspector was soliciting bribes from contractors who were paining the bridge.

More information: Courier-Journal: Kennedy Bridge work may resume (Dec. 6, 2003) , Associated Press: Bridge-painting, stopped after bribery scandal, may get jump-start (Dec. 6, 2003) 

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) 

Kentucky Gov. Paul Patton and Indiana Gov. Joe Kernan have appointed a two-state committee to enhance minority participation on the Louisville Southern-Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project.

More information: Press Release from Office of Gov. Patton: Patton, Kernan Name Joint Panel to Oversee Minority Role in Ohio River Bridges Project (Nov. 13, 2003) , Associated Press: Governors appoint two-state panel for bridge projects (Nov. 13, 2003) 

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) 

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet presented several options for highways to connect the new Warren County Tri-Modal Transpark to I-65 at a public meeting on Oct. 9. Options include a new-freeway grade highway between I-65 and US 31W in northern Warren County and upgrading existing highways in the area.

More information: Bowling Green Daily-News: Public responds to interchange plan (Oct. 10, 2003) , Kentucky Trimodal Transpark 

The Federal Highway Administration issued a Record of Decision marking the approval of the Environmental Impact Study of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridge Project. This clears the way for final design and right-of-way acquisition.

Additionally, the U.S. Department of Transportation honored the transportation cabinet.s environmental stewardship in developing the bridge plans.

More information: Courier Journal: Couisville bridges project confirmed (Sept. 6, 2003) , Courier Journal: Bridges project clears U.S. review (Sept. 24, 2003) , KYTC Press Release: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Recognized Nationally for Environmental Stewardship on Ohio River Bridges Project (Sept. 26, 2003) 

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has scheduled the following public meetings to discuss various road projects in Kentucky:

• September 29 and 30 - Study US 641 in Lyon and Caldwell Counties: KYTC Division of Planning: US 641 
• October 9 - New interchange on I-65 in northern Warren County: KYTC: I-65/US 31W Connector Public Meeting Notice 
• October 9 - New KY 6 connector for Woodbine to Corbin Bypass in Knox and Whitley Counties: KYTC: KY 6 Public Meeting Notice 
• October 21 - Study US 421 in Jackson County: KYTC Division of Planning: US 421 Meeting Announcement 
• October 23 - Eastern Nicholasville Bypass in Jessamine County: KYTC: Eastern Jessamine Public Meeting Notice 
• November 6 - Rock fall correction and flood mitigation on KY 1964 in Woodford County: KYTC: Clifton Road Public Meeting Notice 

More information: Kentucky New Era (Hopkinsville): Public invited to view proposed U.S. 641 plans (Sept. 16, 2003) , Bowling Green Daily News: Interchange Meeting Set (Sept. 26, 2003) 

The Transportation Cabinet is seeking consultants to design a 2.6-mile highway to connect I-65 to US 31W in northern Warren County as part of the Kentucky TriModal Transpark. The road could conceivably extended as part of the Bowling Green Beltline project or the I-66 project. The transportation cabinet would like to have construction start on the road within two years; however, they also expect a full environmental impact statement to be completed, which could take some time.

More information: Bowling Green Daily News: Transpark seeking road developers (Aug. 9, 2003) 

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) , Courier-Journal: CTS will oversee 17-year construction of 2 Ohio River bridges; Representatives promise quick, efficient service project (July 25, 2003) , Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: General Engineering Consultant Selected for Ohio River Bridges Project Development (July 24, 2004) 

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

• Bridges of the Ohio River - Several of Kentucky's 40 bridges across the Ohio River.
• William H. Harsha Bridge Photographs - Photographs of Kentucky's first cable stayed bridge: the William H. Harsha bridge near Maysville.
• I-64 - Sherman Minton Bridge - The I-64 and US 150 bridge over the Ohio River in Louisville.
• Shortway Bridge - The Old KY 1120 bridge over the Licking River between Kenton and Campbell Counties.
• I-65 - John F. Kennedy Bridge - The I-65 bridge over the Ohio River at Louisville.
• US 31 - George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge (Second Street Bridge) - The US 31 bridge over the Ohio River at Louisville.
• I-65 - Miscellaneous Images
• KY 30 - Miscellaneous Images - Photographs of the new section of KY 30 under construction in Laurel County.
• I-65 Warren County Construction - June 29, 2001
• I-65 Warren County Construction - May 22, 2002
• I-65 Warren County Construction - August 15, 2002
• I-65 Warren County Construction - July 5, 2003
• I-75 - Miscellaneous Images - Includes photographs of I-75 widening projects south of Lexington.
• William H. Natcher Bridge - October 26, 2002
• William H. Natcher Bridge - February 8, 2003
• Louisville - Miscellaneous Images
• KY 3 and KY 645 - Inez - January 3, 2003
• AA Highway - Miscellaneous Images
• KY 67 - Miscellaneous Images
• KY 80 - Miscellaneous Images - Along KY 80 in Pulaski and Laurel Counties.
• KY 101 and KY 259 - Edmonson County - November 18, 2001 - A new section of KY 259 and KY 101 under construction in Edmonson County.
• US 23 - Miscellaneous Images
• US 60 - Miscellaneous Images - Photographs of the Cumberland and Tennessee River bridges.

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

The Indiana, Kentucky, and the Federal Highway Administration have reached a 40-page agreement with the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation that is aimed to protect historic properties near the sites of the two proposed bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville.

More information: Courier-Journal: Deal made to save sites by bridges (April 10, 2003) 

In other news, the Environmental Impact Study has been approved. The most recent federal budge includes $8 million to begin purchasing right of way, construction could start in four years, and the project should be complete by 2020. Total construction costs could be as much as $2.5 billion.

More information: Associated Press: Federal agency wants two bridges for Ohio River at Louisville (April 16, 2003) , Associated Press: 2 bridges over Ohio could cost $2.5 billion (April 17, 2003) , Associated Press: Two companies vying for Ohio River bridges project (July 7, 2003) , Courier-Journal: Bridges project to get $9.8 million House panel expected to OK funds Monday (July 18, 2003) 

A run down of Warren County area road projects:

• I-65 construction between Bowling Green and Smiths Grove is complete. A few miles of the interstate near the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Parkway are now under construction. This is part of a project to widen I-65 to six lanes from the Tennessee state line to Elizabethtown.
• The new intersection between I-65 and Cemetery Road (KY 234) is complete and open. It is now Exit 26 on I-65.
• Work to widen US 231 between Bowling Green and Alvaton is complete. Work has now started on the US 231 project to the south and east of Alvaton. US 231 is being widened to four lanes from Bowling Green to Scottsville.
• The City of Bowling Green and Warren County are funding work to rebuild and widen Cave Mill Road from Scottsvile Road (US 231) to Dishman Lane.
• The Natcher Parkway extension from I-65 to US 231 east of Bowling Green is still planned; however, there is currently no funding for the project.
• The planning process for I-66 and the Bowling Green Beltline project continues.

More information: Bowling Green Daily News: Road improvements (Jan. 31, 2003) , Bowling Green Daily News: Public will get view of plans for two roads (Feb. 6, 2003) , Bowling Green Daily News: Road construction in area makes for dangerous driving (April 10, 2003) , Bowling Green Daily News: End in sight for construction on U.S. 231 (April 14, 2003) , Bowling Green Daily News: Tolls to be halted on two roads (May 31, 2001) , Bowling Green Daily News: Work starts on another section of Cave Mill (June 30, 2003) , Bowling Green Daily News: Road paving will take place at night (July 12, 2003) , Bowling Green Daily News: ITA presents virtual transpark model (July 17, 2003) 

The federal budget for 2002 includes money for several road projects in Kentucky. These projects include:

• Planning for widening KY 101 in Edmonson County
• Planning for the construction of an interchange with I-65 for the Kentucky Trimodal Transpark in Warren County
• Right-of-way acquasiation and utility relocation for the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridge Project
• Bridge rennovation in Lincoln County
• Construction of a sound barrier on I-75 in Fayette County
• Widening of I-75 to six lanes in Rockcastle County
• Construction of the I-66 Northern By-pass of Somerset
• Bridge replacement on Monticello Street in Somerset

More information: Daily News: Region lands more than $13 million in funds (Feb. 15, 2003) , Courier-Journal: Budget funds projects in area (Feb. 15, 2003) , Herald-Leader: Kentucky projects in federal budget bill (Feb. 15, 2003) 

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 .

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

Research conducted by the University of Kentucky has determined that experimental tourism signs installed along I-65 in Southcentral Kentucky were successful in attracting tourists. The study concludes that expanding the program is warranted.

Brown signs showing the distance to several attractions in Warren County and Edmonson County were installed along I-65. Signs were also installed for the Kentucky Speedway on I-71 and for Patti's 1880's Settlement on I-24.

Before the sign program can be expanded, the signs must approved by the Federal Highway Administration.

More information: Daily News: Survey shows that tourism signs are successful (Feb. 3, 2003) , Daily News: All state sites would benefit from signs (Editorial, Feb. 4, 2003) 

Update June 1, 2004: These signs are officially known as "Post-Interchange Guide Signs." The Kentucky Transportation Center has produced this 41-page report on The Evaluation of Post-Interchange Guide Signs .

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reached a sealed settlement with Ron Gardner, a KYTC employee who alerted officials that inspectors were extorting bribes from contractors.

A judge opened the settlement in January at the request of the Courier-Journal. It was revealed that the KYTC paid Gardner $480,000 to settle the lawsuit.

More information: Daily Independent: Cabinet seals settlement with employee in whistle-blower case (Jan. 12, 2003) , Herald-Leader: Bridge-painting lawsuit sealed (Jan. 12, 2003) , Courier-Journal: State settled suit for $480,000 (Jan. 24, 2003) 

A former opponent to widening Cemetery Road in Bowling Green called the new road, Bowling Green's prettiest entry after trees were planted along the new road. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet landscaped the widened highway, which includes a new interchange with I-65, so that it would fit in well with the neighborhood.

More information: Daily News: Trees planted along road expansion (Jan. 12, 2003) 

Recent Professional Services Procurement Bulletins  include a study on rebuilding the interchanges on I-65  near the University of Louisville, a study on rebuilding KY 9 in urban Campbell County , and studies about constructing two new interchanges on the Mountain Parkway .

The new interchange between KY 234 (Cemetery Road) and I-65 in Bowling Green has opened. The interchange is just south of the Barren River and will be numbered as Exit 26.

More information: Daily News: Cemetery/I-65 link complete (Dec. 19, 2002) , Daily News: Cemetery/I-65 link nearly finished (Dec. 13, 2002) 

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

More information: KYTC Press Release 

If the weather cooperates, the new interchange between I-65 and KY 234 near Bowling Green could be complete by Thanksgiving. The newly widened I-65 is now 6 lanes between the Barren River bridge just north of KY 234 and US 68 north of Bowling Green.

More information: Daily News: Project still on schedule (Oct. 31, 2002) 

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) 

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

A $1 million bonus was awarded to Scotty's Contracting for completing a 3-mile section of widening work on I-65 in Warren County ahead of an August 23 deadline. Scotty's stands to receive another $500,000 bonus if they can complete another section of the project from mile marker 30 to the Oakland exit before September 12.

More information: Daily News: Bonus helps roadwork get a timely finish (Aug. 22, 2002) 

The sentencing for Kevin Lee Earles has been rescheduled for Sept. 27 to allow his lawyers more to prepare arguments against extra prison time sought by the government. Earles, a 23 year veteran of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, plead guilty to soliciting bribes from contractor that was repainting the Kennedy Bridge in downtown Louisville. Lawyers for the government are seeking added prison time because it has been revealed that Earles threatened to kill his victims.

In conversations secretly recorded by the FBI, Earles told a foreman that he would kill the foreman is the foreman turned him in. Earles threatened to ruin the business of the contractor and claimed to have previously used his tactics against a contractor repainting a bridge in Owensboro.

More information: Courier-Journal: Bridge inspector's sentencing postponed (Aug. 22, 2002) , Courier-Journal: Bridge inspector threatened to kill foreman, tapes show (Aug. 20, 2002) 

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has released information pertaining to public meeting concerning I-66 in the Bowling Green area:

• Aug. 15 Meeting  - 10 am-7 pm CDT / Brownsville Community Center / 108 N. Main St. / Brownsville, KY
• Aug. 14 Meeting  - 10 am-7 pm CDT / Bowling Green Public Library - Depot Br. / 401 Kentucky St. / Bowling Green, KY

The information includes an overview of the project  (PDF format) and map of conceptual corridors  (PDF format).

Work on Cemetery Road (KY 234) in Warren County is progressing. The new bridge over I-65 will open this week. The new interchange with I-65 is expected to open this fall.

Bids have been received for a 4.4-mile section of the new four-lane US 231 near the Warren County and Simpson County line. Grading on a section of the road near Scottsville has been completed and the surface may be completed this year. Another section of the road between Bowling Green and Alvaton including four new bridges over Drakes Creek and its flood plain could be complete by next spring. The entire project to widen the road from Bowling Green to Scottsville is expected to be completed in early 2004.

More information: Daily News: U.S. 231, new interchange work also progressing (Aug. 8, 2002) 

A three-mile section of I-65 in Warren County is expected to open soon. The contractor is being offered a $1 million bonus to complete the widening project by August 23. If they miss this deadline, there is a disincentive of $10,000 per day. This is the first time this incentive program has been used on a project in the area.

I-65 is currently being widened from KY 234 near Bowling Green to the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Parkway in northern Warren County. Bids will soon be let for widening projects north and south of the current construction area.

More information: [r:http://www.bgdailynews.com/cgi-bin/view.cgi?200208/08+bonus20020808_news.html+20020808|Daily News: Bonus a boost for I-65 work (Aug. 8, 2002)

A report commissioned by the FBI finds that the $14 million project to repaint the Kennedy Bridge over the Ohio River at Louisville was doomed from the start. The study reports that officials disregarded concerns that the project would wash old lead based paint into the Ohio River. The method of painting was also attacked: the state planned to "overcoat" the existing paint. The study predicted that this method would fail because the existing paint is unstable and would peel off. Work on painting the bridge was suspended in 2001 due to FBI inquiries alleged bribery and other flaws in oversight.

More information: Courier-Journal: Study blasts project to paint bridge (August 10, 2002) 

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

• One presentation is of the I-64 Weekend Project  that was undertaken in Jefferson County late last summer.
• Another presentation covers the reconstruction of I-65 in Warren County . It includes this picture  of a vehicle used to create the rumble strips along the shoulder.

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) , Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project 

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

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) 

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

The Bowling Green Daily News reports that I-66 may use part of I-65 in Warren County to make the connection between the Cumberland Parkway and Natcher Parkway in Warren County. More Information 

Also, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will hold two public meetings to discuss I-66 in the Warren County area. One meeting will be held on August 14 in Bowling Green, and another will be held the following day in Brownsville. More Information 

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) , Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project: Maps and Descriptions 

Two bridge contractors who were solicited for bribes have attacked an audit of the Transportation Cabinet saying that is flawed by omissions and errors.

Full story: Courier-Journal: 2 bridge contractors attack report (June 4, 2002) 

The draft Six-Year Highway Plan currently under review of the state legislature includes funding for a $30 million interchange on I-65 in northern Warren County. The intention of the interchange is to provide access to the proposed Kentucky Trimodal Transpark . A similar interchange is proposed for I-65 in Hardin County.

More information Daily News: Cash for interchange in proposal (May 14, 2002) 

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 

Kevin L. Earles, a 23-year veteran employee of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, pleaded guilty on March 28 to federal anti-corruption charges. He was accused of soliciting bribes during an inspection of the Kennedy Bridge over the Ohio River at Louisville. The Kennedy Bridge carries I-65 into Southern Indiana.

More information: Courier-Journal: Bridge Inspector Who Took Bribes Pleads Guilty 

The Bowling Green Daily News reports in this Mar. 3, 2002 article  that the Barren River Area Development Highway Safety Committee, a group composed of area elected officials and highway officials, is proposing education, engineering, enforcement, emergency services and enactment to change hazards they see on Kentucky roads. There have been nearly 200 deaths on roads in the Barren River area since 1997. Greg Meredith, from the Department of Highways, says that some of the improvements are more attainable than others, but that state budget constraints make it unlikely that many of the improvements can be implemented. On proposal, the construction of a barrier in the middle of I-65, is already part of the I-65 widening project.

WAVE 3  from Louisville reports that an 18-vehicle accident has occured three miles south of Lebanon Junction on I-65. The south bound lanes are closed. So far there are no reports of fatalities, though there are injuries.

The Bowling Green Daily News reports in this Feb. 13, 2002 article  that the state is studying the construction of a Bowling Green loop road as part of the Interstate 66 project. The road would connect I-66 to the Natcher Parkway north of Bowling Green. The road was originally proposed in 1972. The current study is expected to be completed in 2003 and any construction is still over ten years away.

Updated Mar-02: Glasgow Daily Times article .

The Bowling Green Daily News reports in this Feb. 10, 2002 article  that Warren County is slated to receive $187 million in road work during the next six years. This includes widening I-65, construction of new interchanges on I-65, extension of the Natcher Parkway, widening of Lovers Lane (KY 880), and widening of US 231 to Scottsville.

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

The KYTC will be holding public meetings to discuss the proposed Bowling Green Beltline highway and the location of I-66 between the Natcher Parkway and the Cumberland Parkway. More information can be found here .

The Bowling Green Daily News reports in this article  that three rest areas on I-65 will be closed: two in Warren County and a third in Hart County. The rest areas are being demolished because they are unable to handle current traffic on I-65. The stretch of road handles between 35,000 and 45,000 vehicles per day. Around 50% of this traffic is truck traffic, and the rest areas do not have adequate parking for trucks.

Update Feb. 10: This Glasgow Daily Times article  discusses the rest area work as well.

The Courier-Journal reports in this Feb. 4, 2002 article  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 . The public is invited to comment on the projects until Feb. 25.

According to this June 18, 2001 article  from the Bowling Green Daily News the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has considered reconstructing KY 259 from the current I-65 and Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Parkway to the intersection of KY 259 and KY 101 near Brownsville. A public meeting on this issue was held in July of 2001. An early report on the proposal can be found here . This project is in the same area as the proposed I-66.

This Bowling Green Daily News article  reports that work is progressing on several road projects in Warren County. Work is expected to finish early on a project to widen I-65 to six lanes between Oakland and the Barren River. Work on I-65 between the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Parkway and Oakland is expected to begin this spring. Work is also on schedule on rebuilding Scottsville Road (US 231) between Bowling Green and Alvaton. Eventually US 231 will be widened to four lanes between Bowling Green and Scottsville. Work on a new interchange between I-65 and KY 234 has slowed for the winter. Also work on the Natcher Parkway is expected to begin soon. The interchange between the Natcher Parkway and I-65 will be reconstructed south of its current location.

According to this Courier-Journal article  a federal grand jury in Louisville indicted Kevin Lee Earles, 41, on three counts of extortion for allegedly demanding bribes that totaled $18,000. Earles was a KYTC inspector for painting work being done on the Kennedy Bridge in Louisville. He reportedly told a painting-company executive that there was a ''history'' of making payments to inspectors.

The Daily News reports in this article  that work is progressing will on KY 234 Cemetery Road in Bowling Green. The road is being widened to five lanes from its intersection with US 31W to just past I-65. A new interchange is being constructed at I-65, and much of the widened road is being built on a new right-of-way north of the current route.

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  have been scheduled. The DEIS can be found here  and articles about the DEIS from the Courier-Journal can be found here .

The Lexington Herald-Leader reports in this article  that a second lawsuit has been filed over alleged illegal activity regarding inspection of the Kennedy Bridge. In this lawsuit, a KYTC employee claims he was demoted after reporting that state inspectors were falsifying records, getting kickbacks from a supplier and soliciting bribes from contractors.

The Courier-Journal reports in this Oct. 25, 2001 article  that a lawsuit has been filed claiming that KYTC officials and bridge inspectors solicited bribes regarding repainting work on the Kennedy Bridge over the Ohio River in Louisville.

The Bowling Green Daily News reports in this article  that a stretch of I-65 once known as "Death Valley" is safer now. Police claim this is because of increased police presence and that people are driving safer through the construction zone.

The Courier-Journal reports in this Sept. 7, 2001 article  that the results of a study outlining the strengths and weaknesses of nine possible bridge routes linking Jefferson County and Southern Indiana are expected next month. The eastern bridge alternatives would link I-265 in Indiana and Kentucky. Already, groups are preparing to fight both for and against the proposed bridges.

The official website for the study is www.kyinbridges.com .

This Sept. 3, 2001 article  from the Glasgow Daily Times reports that the Kentucky State Police is adding new Camaroes to their fleet of vehicles. These vehicles, while still marked, are meant to have a lower profile than the traditional gray Crown-Victorias. The KSP has termed them Special Enforcement Vehicles. The trooper interviewed in the article will be patrolling the Nunn and Blue Grass Parkways and I-65.

Forty-six new images have been added of I-65 Construction. These images show scrap I-beams that are going to be used to construct pedestrian bridges and images from several bridges and overpasses along I-65.

According to this August 10, 2001 article  from the Bowling Green Daily News, Western Kentucky University will receive an unusual gift from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: scrap I-beams from two bridges over the Barren River that are being dismantled. The I-beams will be used to build a pedestrian walkway to a new parking lot on the University's campus.

Two new pictures have been added to the I-65 Construction feature. They show the north bound view of the construction north of Exit 28 in Warren County.