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Interstate 71

[I-71] Interstate 71 in Kentucky connects Louisville to the Northern Kentucky area. It is officially considered a north-south interstate; however, its route—even into Ohio— is more diagonal. I-71 has the distinction of being the only main line interstate to begin in Kentucky; its southwestern terminus is at the Spaghetti Junction interchange in downtown Louisville. The highway joins with I-75 in southern Kenton County and crosses into Ohio along with I-75 over the Brent Spence Bridge.

Construction began on I-71 in November of 1965, and it was completed by July of 1969. I-71 in Kentucky is 106.821 miles long; however, it run concurrent with I-75 for 29.097 of these miles: it is only an independent route for 77.724 miles.

Kentucky’s new speedway is located at exit 57 off of I-71 in Gallatin County.

Related images: [2 images related to this topic.]

Related news topics: [Boone County] [Brent Spence Bridge Replacement] [Carroll County] [Gallatin County] [Henry County] [Interstate 75] [Jefferson County] [Oldham County] [Trimble County]


I-71 News Items

[I-71] [I-75]
Governors Beshear and DeWine Submit Second Federal Funding Request for Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project
Posted: 11-May-2023 1:48PM CDT

From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet:

Governors Beshear and DeWine Submit Second Federal Funding Request for Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project
Additional funding will support bridge and roadway improvements that will grow the economy and invest in local communities
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug.10, 2022) – Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced today that a second federal funding application was submitted jointly by the two states to support bridge and roadway improvements along the eight-mile Brent Spence Bridge Corridor from the Western Hills Viaduct in Ohio to Dixie Highway in Kentucky.
The current funding request is through the Bridge Investment Program, which follows the May funding request through the Multimodal Projects Discretionary Grant Program. Ohio and Kentucky articulated in both applications that a total of $1.66 billion in federal grant funding is needed regardless of which discretionary grant program awards funds to the project. The states are applying to multiple grant programs to give themselves the best chance of receiving maximum funding, in keeping with the pledges of Govs. DeWine and Beshear to pursue every available federal dollar.

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[I-71]
Forty Years of I-71 in Oldham County
Posted: 27-Jul-2009 7:18AM CDT

The Courier-Journal looks at how the arrival of I-71 changed the nature of Oldham County: Courier-Journal: Interstate changes nature of Oldham County (July 27, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Location, Tolls Problems for Brent Spence Bridge Replacement
Posted: 12-Feb-2009 7:33AM CST

The Associated Press has a brief story about how the questions of where and how to pay for a replacement for the Brent Spence Bridge still remain to be answered: Associated Press: Tolls, location problems in bridge planning (Feb. 9, 2009) [Outside Link]

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

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

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[I-71]
I-71 Upgrade Plans Presented
Posted: 5-Feb-2006 2:23AM CST

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet recently held a series of public meetings to discuss plans to rebuild I-71 from “Spaghetti Junction” in downtown Louisville to the Gene Snyder Freeway (I-265): Business First of Louisville: Transportation Cabinet to hold public meetings on I-71 changes (Nov. 7, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[I-71]
I-71 Louisville Reconstruction Proposals Presented
Posted: 12-Nov-2005 2:00AM CST

The Courier-Journal takes a look at the proposed alternatives for rebuilding I-71 in Louisville and eastern Jefferson County: Courier-Journal: Plan aims to improve I-71 flow; Spaghetti Junction to Snyder targeted (Nov. 9, 2005) [Outside Link]

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

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

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Bridge Replacement to be a Signature Bridge
Posted: 30-Oct-2005 11:44PM CST

One percent of the budget to build a replacement for the Brent Spence Bridge will be used to improve the bridge’s aesthetics: Kentucky Post: Bridge will be one of a kind (Oct. 7, 2005) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Goal: Get bridge right; Much study underpins planning for Brent Spence replacement (Oct. 17, 2005) [Outside Link]

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

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

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[I-75]
Work Planned for I-75 in Cincinnati
Posted: 1-Jul-2005 3:51AM CDT

The Cincinnati Enquirer recently published a special section covering proposed improvements to I-75 in Cincinnati: Cincinnati Enquirer: I-75: The Big Fix [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Parsons Brinckerhoff Awarded $18 Million Contract to Perform Brent Spence Bridge Study
Posted: 30-Apr-2005 5:55AM CDT

The Ohio Department of Transportation and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet have awarded the engineering firm of Parsons Brinckerhoff an $18 million contract to perform a study on how to best replace the Brent Spence Bridge: Cincinnati Enquirer: Engineering firm gets $18M to design new Brent Spence (April 22, 2005) [Outside Link]

A group of residents is urging that any replacement bridge be constructed as a signature piece for the area: Cincinnati Post: Signature bridge urged (April 22, 2005) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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

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

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[I-71] [I-75]
Study Finds 14 Lanes Needed on Brent Spence Bridge
Posted: 9-Feb-2005 1:55AM CST

A Transportation Cabinet Engineer reported to the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce that a study of how to best upgrade or replace the Brent Spence Bridge has shown that the I-71/I-75 bridge over the Ohio River should carry seven lanes of traffic in each direction.

More information: Cincinnati Post: Proposal calls for 14-lane bridge (Feb. 8, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Bridge Structurally Sound
Posted: 10-Jan-2005 5:18PM CST

A recent report finds that the Brent Spence Bridge will remain structurally sound for at least the next 16 years so long as the bridge receives regular maintenance. This contradicts a 1999 study that found the bridge’s structural integrity would fail within 15 years.

More information: Cincinnati Enquirer: Interstate 71/75 span ruled sound (Jan. 9, 2005) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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[I-24]
Winter Storm Aftermath Continues
Posted: 24-Dec-2004 3:20PM CST

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 [Outside Link].

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Current Conditions

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

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

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[I-24]
Winter Storm Blasts Kentucky’s Roadways
Posted: 23-Dec-2004 6:28PM CST

The Henderson Gleaner reports that the 511 traffic information system fails to provide information about the hazardous conditions in the Henderson area: Henderson Gleaner: Road hotline fails this area (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

The interstates are open, but many secondary roads are impassible in Northern Kentucky: (Covington) Kentucky Post: Paralyzing storm shuts down travel (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

Road clearing was suspended overnight in parts of Western Kentucky due to blizzard like conditions, and four stopped tractor trailers blocked traffic on I-71 in Gallatin County: Associated Press: Parts of Kentucky at near standstill (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

A series of traffic accidents has caused long delays on I-24 in Western Kentucky. Motorists are asked not to call emergency services unless they are in immediate need of police, fire, or medical assistance: Associated Press: Wrecks tie up Interstate 24 (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

Forty members of the Kentucky National Guard were activated overnight and used military tow trucks and Humvees to rescue stranded motorists. Some cars stopped along I-24 due to accidents were caught in snow drifts: Courier-Journal: Storm limits transportation options (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

More information: WAVE 3: Winter Storm Coats Much Of Kentucky With Snow, Ice (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link], Lexington Herald-Leader: Kentucky is wet and cold (Dec. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet posts regularly updated traffic advisories to www.511.ky.gov [Outside Link]. You can also obtain Kentucky traffic information by calling 1-800-RDREPORT or by dialing 511 from any cell phone.

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[I-71] [I-75]
Details on Kentucky-Ohio Bridge Compact
Posted: 7-Dec-2004 1:03AM CST

The recently announced compact between Kentucky and Ohio specifies that Ohio will contribute 54.5 percent of the expected $18 million cost of a study to determine how to best replace the Brent Spence Bridge. Kentucky will contribute the remaining 45.5 percent.

More information: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Ohio and Kentucky Partner on Brent Spence Bridge Project (Dec. 2, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Kentucky-Ohio Bridge Compact to Aid Brent Spence Bridge Replacement Efforts, Timeline Extended to 2010
Posted: 5-Dec-2004 8:13PM CST

A new cooperative agreement between Kentucky and Ohio is expected to help the process to replace the Brent Spence Bridge: Cincinnati Enquirer: Ky., Ohio have bridge compact (Dec. 1, 2004) [Outside Link], Covington Kentucky Post: Ohio to help bridge project (Dec. 1, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: States unveil bridge deal (Dec. 3, 2004) [Outside Link]

A timeline showing proposed dates for steps towards the replacement of the bridge has moved construction of the bridge to 2010. The original 2003 hope was to have a new bridge open to traffic by 2009: Cincinnati Post: Bridge timeline revised to 2010 (Dec. 3, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[US 421]
Upcoming Public Meeting: US 421 Improvements between I-71 and Bedford
Posted: 28-Oct-2004 1:54AM CDT

On Thursday, November 18, 2004 the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will hold a public meeting to discuss improvements to US 421 from the interchange with I-71 in Henry County to Bedford in Trimble County. The meeting will be from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at Bedford Elementary School.

More information: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: To Discuss A Study for the Improvement of US 421 From I-71 To Bedford [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Bridge Replacement Gets $721,000
Posted: 11-Sep-2004 7:12AM CDT

The U.S. Department of Transportation recently awarded a $721,000 grant to Kentucky to help fund a study to determine how best to replace the aging Brent Spence Bridge: Kentucky Post: Kentucky awarded grant for Brent Spence Bridge (Sept. 10, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Update
Posted: 6-Sep-2004 9:01PM CDT

A member of the congressional committee debating the next federal transportation plan has suggested that area officials only ask only for the money they need for the next six years of planning to replace the Brent Spence Bridge and not the entire amount of money needed to replace the structure that carries I-71 and I-75 over the Ohio River: Cincinnati Enquirer: Brent Spence, 'an invitation to disaster,' may get funds (Aug. 27, 2004) [Outside Link]

Officials conducting the study of how to best replace the bridge have determined that the five current preliminary options are all worthy of additional study: Kentucky Post: Bridge plans offer smoother traffic flow (Sept. 3, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[New Route]
Construction Begins on New Speedway Connector Route
Posted: 20-Aug-2004 5:33AM CDT

Construction has begun a new route connecting the new exit 55 interchange on I-71 to the Markland Dam Bridge over the Ohio River has begun. The $17 million five mile project is expected to be complete in Spring 2006: Cincinnati Enquirer: Speedway road work to begin (July 14, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Bridge Notes
Posted: 20-Aug-2004 5:33AM CDT
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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Update
Posted: 12-Jul-2004 12:17AM CDT

U.S. Senator George Voinovich (R-Ohio) will escort U.S. Department of Transportation Assistant Secretary Emil Frankel and local officials on a tour of the Brent Spence Bridge this Monday: Cincinnati Post: Voinovich aids bridge project (July 10, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Post: Voinovich, U.S. official to tour Brent Spence (July 8, 2004) [Outside Link]

David Jones, the new chief highway engineer at the Department of Highways District 6 office, says the Brent Spence Bridge project will not be ignored: Cincinnati Enquirer: New leader says Brent Spence won't be ignored (July 10, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71]
Fatal Accident on I-71 Reroutes Traffic
Posted: 1-Jul-2004 2:45AM CDT

Two accidents on I-71, one resulting in a fatality, forced the temporary closure of the highway yesterday evening. As of last night the name of the victim had not been released: Courier-Journal: Interstate 71 crash leaves one dead (June 30, 2004) [Outside Link], WKYT: I-71 Crash Kills One, Reroutes Traffic (June 30, 2004) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Bridge Study to Begin Soon
Posted: 24-Jun-2004 1:31AM CDT

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will soon seek bids for a preliminary environmental study concerning the replacement of the Brent Spence Bridge: Cincinnati Enquirer: State to seek bridge study (June 10, 2004) [Outside Link]

In other news, due to lack of funding, the Brent Spence Bridge replacement project was not included in the Cincinnati-area long range transportation plan: Cincinnati Enquirer: Long-range transit plan passes, minus 2 biggies (June 11, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Update
Posted: 23-Jun-2004 8:01AM CDT

Martin T. Whitmer Jr., deputy chief of staff to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta, has acknowledged the need for a replacement of the Brent Spence Bridge; however, he reiterated President Bush’s commitment to holding the line on transportation spending: Cincinnati Enquirer: Need for new I-75 span acknowledged (June 6, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Post: Feds Backing Bridge Project (June 6, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Bridge Funding Engrossed in Budget Battle
Posted: 1-Jun-2004 6:51AM CDT

Senator Mitch McConnell (R-Louisville) says that funding for a study on how to replace or rehabilitate the Brent Spence Bridge is caught up in in-fighting over the federal transportation spending bill. The bill is currently in conference where conflicts between the House and Senate versions are resolved. In addition to resolving the differences between the bills, congress must also attempt to find a bill that pleases the president who has said he will veto any bill costing more than $256 billion.

Additionally, the governors of Kentucky and Ohio recently met. Both pledged support for the bridge replacement.

More information: Cincinnati Post: Governors promote region (May 27, 2004) [Outside Link], Kentucky Post: Leaders pledge to work together (May 27, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Bridge funding gets tangled (May 28, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Senator says funding for northern Kentucky bridge uncertain (May 28, 2004) [Outside Link], Kentucky Post: 'Family fight' hurting Brent Spence effort (May 28, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Covington bridge project slowed by rift over budget (May 29, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
State to Memorialize 931 Victims of Traffic Collisions at Northern Kentucky Welcome Center
Posted: 27-May-2004 6:39PM CDT

A memorial to the 931 people who died in traffic accidents in Kentucky in 2003 will be displayed at the I-71/I-75 southbound welcome center in Boone County today: Cincinnati Enquirer: 931 who died on roads remembered (May 26, 2004) [Outside Link]

The page linked above also mentions that the city of Covington is distributing a new map of the city.

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[I-71] [I-75]
Supporters of Brent Spence Bridge Replacement See Hope in D.C.
Posted: 24-May-2004 5:39PM CDT

Supporters of replacing the Brent Spence Bridge find comfort in the fact that senators from Kentucky and Ohio were appointed to a commission to resolve differences between the house and senate versions of a federal highway bill: Kentucky Post: Bridge on D.C. inside track (May 22, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Senators named highway conferees (May 22, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
News Notes
Posted: 18-May-2004 3:38AM CDT

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) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Plea made for new I-75 bridge (April 23, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Bridge plan calls for $15M (April 29, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Voinovich wants $15M for bridge (April 30, 2004) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link], Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer: No budget means no road plan (April 25, 2004) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link] 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) [Outside Link] 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) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link], Bowling Green Daily News: Speedy repairs on interstate are appreciated (May 8, 2004) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link] The new U.S. Grant Bridge is scheduled to open in 2005.

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[I-71]
I-71 Widening Public Meetings
Posted: 21-Apr-2004 5:06AM CDT

Over the next few weeks, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will be holding public meetings to discuss widening I-71 from Spaghetti Junction in downtown Louisville to the I-265 interchange in eastern Jefferson County.

More information: Courier-Journal: Input sought on I-71 problems (Apr. 16, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Federal Highway Bill Delayed
Posted: 21-Apr-2004 5:04AM CDT

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

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) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
KY 338-I-71/I-75 Interchange Reconstruction Ten Years Away
Posted: 29-Mar-2004 12:16AM CST

The proposed 2004 Six Year Transportation plan includes money to fund the design work to rebuild the interchange between I-71/I-75 and Richwood Road in Boone County; however, construction on such a project probably would not begin for ten years.

More information: (Northern) Kentucky Post: Relief is in sight (March 22, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Bridge Projects: Louisville vs. Cincinnati
Posted: 29-Mar-2004 12:15AM CST

The Cincinnati Enquirer compares progress towards building two new bridges at Louisville to the project to replace the Brent Spence Bridge: Cincinnati Enquirer: Bridge plan lags Louisville's (March 20, 2004) [Outside Link]

The Louisville plan has already cleared environmental approval—a major hurdle—and will be constructed before work starts in Northern Kentucky.

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[I-71] [I-75]
Possible Alternatives Eliminated from Brent Spence Bridge Study
Posted: 18-Mar-2004 8:41AM CST

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has eliminated a couple of alternatives from the Brent Spence Bridge replacement study. A plan to build a bridge for I-75 far to the west of downtown near the Anderson Ferry will not be studied, and a plan to build a bridge to the west of the current bridge along with a large new interchange west of downtown Cincinnati will not be studied. The latter was one of the six alternatives presented in January.

The changes were announced during a meeting of local transportation officials on Wednesday. At the same meeting, engineers presented data on why a tunnel was not a feasible alternative.

More information: Cincinnati Enquirer: Two bridge options dropped (March 11, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Post: New bridge options trimmed to 5 (March 11, 2004) [Outside Link], (Northern) Kentucky Post: Brent Spence options narrowed to five (March 11, 2004) [Outside Link], (Northern) Kentucky Post Corrections: Truck ban cost (March 11, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Covington Not Enforcing I-71/I-75 Truck Lane Restrictions
Posted: 11-Mar-2004 2:07AM CST

Signs posted along I-71/I-75 in northern Kenton County advice truckers to use only the right two lanes; however, an article in the Cincinnati Enquirer reveals that the Covington Police Department has chosen not to enforce this restriction: Cincinnati Enquirer: Trucks defy traffic signs on interstate (March 6, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Bridge Replacement Backers Find Promise in Two-Year Extension to Federal Highway Plan; Ban on Trucks Considered
Posted: 11-Mar-2004 2:06AM CST

Backers for a proposed project to replace the Brent Spence Bridge see promise in a proposed two-year extension of the federal six-year highway plan. In order to avoid long deliberations over a new six-year plan, the Congress may opt to extend the current six-year plan for two years. Lobbyists for the Brent Spence Bridge project would use the extra two years to build support for including funding for the bridge replacement in the next plan.

Additionally, a ban on trucks crossing the bridge has been considered; however, such a ban would not serve as a permanent solution as it would only cause further congestion on other bridges and highways in the area.

More information: Cincinnati Enquirer: Bill delay may aid Brent Spence (March 5, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Truck ban seen as no panacea (March 10, 2004) [Outside Link], (Northern) Kentucky Post: Bridge study: Don't ban trucks (March 10, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Bunning Reaffirms Position on Louisville and Northern Kentucky Bridges; Democratic Challenger Holds Bridge Meeting
Posted: 29-Feb-2004 9:41AM CST

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) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Bunning clarifies stance on bridges (Feb. 27, 2004) [Outside Link], Kentucky Post: Mongiardo: Replace the bridge (Feb. 27, 2004) [Outside Link], Kentucky Post: Bunning behind two spans in Louisville (Feb. 27, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Possible Funding Source for Brent Spence Bridge Replacement Found
Posted: 26-Feb-2004 11:49PM CST

Officials with Greater Cincinnati’s main transportation planning committee say they may have found a possible source for funding to pay for rehabilitating or replacing the Brent Spence Bridge. The house version of a six-year transportation spending bill currently under consideration in the U.S. Congress includes a $20.2 billion fund for “projects of regional or national importance.” The group hopes that the Brent Spence Bridge would be considered one of these projects. The bridge was recently identified as one of the top twenty four highway bottlenecks nationwide, and forms a vital link on I-75—the nation’s second busiest north-south interstate.

More information: Cincinnati Enquirer: Possible funding found for Brent Spence Bridge (Feb. 25, 2004) [Outside Link], (Northern) Kentucky Post: Fund could finance bridge (Feb. 25, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
“I didn’t say that all.” Bunning Denies Saying Louisville Bridge Project Should be Delayed
Posted: 24-Feb-2004 10:36AM CST

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) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Bunning talk on bridges a shocker (Feb. 22, 2004) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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[I-71] [I-75]
U.S. Congress Nears Passage of Transportation Bill
Posted: 21-Feb-2004 9:41PM CST

U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell said on Friday that he believes the U.S. Congress will pass a six-year transportation bill within the next few weeks; however, he has no idea if funding will be included for a replacement for the Brent Spence Bridge. He says that Kentucky’s junior senator, Jim Bunning, has taken the lead on securing funding for the bridge replacement project.

More information: Cincinnati Enquirer: McConnell: Transit bill near (Feb. 21, 2004) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Read Full Text]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Bridge is Nation's 24th Worst Highway Bottleneck
Posted: 20-Feb-2004 7:34AM CST

A nationwide study found that the Brent Spence Bridge is the nation's 24th worst highway bottleneck: Bridge big bottleneck (Feb. 19, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Florence Leaders Seek to Unite City
Posted: 13-Feb-2004 9:43AM CST

The city of Florence grew up on the eastern edge of I-71/I-75; however, as it grow it expanded to the west of the interstate. Today, it is a city divided by the interstate: there are no pedestrian crossings over the interstate in Florence. City leaders hope to gain $264,195 in federal-aid transportation funds for the construction of sidewalk along KY 18.s interstate crossing. The grant would come from the Federal-Aid Transportation Enhancement Program which is administered by the state; that state would also have to provide matching funds along with such a grant.

More information: Cincinnati Enquirer: Florence trying to unite two sides (Feb. 12, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
One Option for Brent Spence Bridge Replacement Would Open Land in Downtown Cincinnati for Development
Posted: 13-Feb-2004 9:41AM CST

One of the six options for replacing the Brent Spence Bridge would free land in downtown Cincinnati that is currently covered by the I-75/I-71 interchange for development. This land would be situated adjacent to the city.s new sporting venues.

More information: Cincinnati Post: Bridge option could free land for downtown projects (Feb. 10, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Why There Won't Be A Big Dig in Cincinnati
Posted: 8-Feb-2004 11:28PM CST

Columnist Dave Hofmeister of the Cincinnati Enquirer looks at why a tunnel is not among the options for replacing the Brent Spence Bridge (too expensive) and why rerouting I-71 onto I-471 wouldn't serve as a long term solution (it's already overcrowded): Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati Enquirer (Feb. 7, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Inadequacies Blamed in Fatal Accident
Posted: 7-Feb-2004 8:57AM CST

Police say the Brent Spence Bridge's lack of breakdown lanes contributed to the death of a motorist.

More information: Cincinnati Enquirer: Bridge's faults help take a life (Feb. 4, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Northern Kentucky Group Lobbying for Inclusion of Brent Spence Bridge Replacement in Federal Transportation Plan
Posted: 4-Feb-2004 4:25AM CST

A group lobbying on behalf of Northern Kentucky leaders is in Washington working to have money to replace the Brent Spence Bridge included in a federal transportation bill.

More information: Cincinnati Post: Delegation lobbying for bridge (Feb. 3, 2004) [Outside Link], Kentucky Post: Bridge funding sought (Feb. 3, 2004) [Outside Link], Kentucky Post: A dangerous bottleneck (Feb. 3, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Brent Spence Bridge Replacement May Require Electric Substation to Move
Posted: 3-Feb-2004 1:50AM CST

Among the many things that will be impacted by the final design for a Brent Spence Bridge replacement is a Cinergy electric substation just west of the current bridge on the Cincinnati side. It would cost $300 million to move the substation.

More information: Cincinnati Post: Bridge routes have $300M question mark (Feb. 2, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Former Governor Louie B. Nunn Dies
Posted: 30-Jan-2004 10:05PM CST

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) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Highlights of Nunn's Term (Jan. 30, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Former Gov. Louie B. Nunn dead at 79 (Jan. 30, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: GOP pioneer Nunn dead (Jan. 30, 2004) [Outside Link], Kentucky Post: Nunn legacy remembered here (Jan. 30, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Preliminary Alternatives for Brent Spence Bridge Replacement Announced
Posted: 30-Jan-2004 10:05PM CST

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has released a set of six preliminary corridors to examine during the study on how to best replace or rehabilitate the Brent Spence Bridge over the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky. All options include the construction of at least one new bridge and many would separate I-71 traffic from I-75 traffic.

The Kentucky Post has maps of each of the six corridors under review: Option 1 [Outside Link], Option 2 [Outside Link], Option 3 [Outside Link], Option 4 [Outside Link], Option 5 [Outside Link], Option 6 [Outside Link]

Completion of the bridge project and other Northern Kentucky projects could be delayed due to state budge problems. Federal aid is key to completing the bridge project.

More information: Cincinnati Enquirer: Plans show options for Brent Spence (Jan. 30, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Brent Spence Bridge replacement (Jan. 30, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Brent Spence replacement may force firms to close (Jan. 30, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Post: Bridge project options studied (Jan. 30, 2004) [Outside Link], Kentucky Post: Area road work hinges on feds (Jan. 30, 2004) [Outside Link]

Jan. 31 update: More information: Cincinnati Enquirer: Bridge backers race clock (Jan. 31, 2004) [Outside Link], Cincinnati Enquirer: Borgman cartoon [Outside Link] - Political cartoonist proposes his own options for replacing the Brent Spence Bridge

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[I-71] [I-75]
Federal Funding Announced for Northern Kentucky Road Projects
Posted: 29-Jan-2004 6:19PM CST

The 2004 federal omnibus spending bill which was approved by the senate last week includes $2 million to continue funding for a study on how to replace the aging I-71/I-75 Brent Spence Bridge across the Ohio River and $1.5 million for a connector route between the AA Highway and I-275.

President Bush must still sign the bill.

More information: Cincinnati Post: Feds OK $2M for Brent Spence (Jan. 27, 2004) [Outside Link], Kentucky Post: $2M targeted to Brent Spence work (Jan. 27, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
New ARTIMIS Signs To Be Installed in Northern Kentucky
Posted: 29-Jan-2004 5:08PM CST

Over the next few months the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will extend the Advanced Regional Traffic Interactive Management & Information System—Greater Cincinnati.s intelligent traffic system—with the installation of three additional signs in Boone County. Two signs will be installed on I-71/I-75—one for the southbound lanes and one for the northbound lanes—and one is already in place on eastbound I-275 near the KY 237 exit.

More information: Cincinnati Enquirer: More road alerts on the way (Jan. 26, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Greater Cincinnati Promotes Need for New Bridge
Posted: 16-Jan-2004 8:13AM CST

Cincinnati area leaders are attempting to promote the benefits of building a new bridge across the Ohio River to replace the aging Brent Spence Bridge. A replacement is expected to cost $750 million; however, local leaders feel the benefits of such a bridge would far out way the costs.

More information: Kentucky Post: Worth $750 million? (Jan. 15, 2004) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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[I-71] [I-75]
"Coalition for a New Bridge" Formed to Lobby for Brent Spence Bridge Replacement
Posted: 15-Nov-2003 6:09PM CST

A coalition, co-chaired by the senior vice-president of Toyota North America, has been formed to lobby for money needed to study and construct a replacement for the aging Brent Spence Bridge over the Ohio River. When the bridge opened in 1963, it was designed to carry 80,000 vehicles per day. Today it carries 149,000 vehicles per day.

More information: Kentucky Post: Coalition to lobby for a new bridge (Nov. 14, 2003) [Outside Link]

Update 17-Nov-2003: More information: Associated Press: Group urges replacing I-75 bridge (Nov. 16, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-71]
Signs Marking Site of Fatal Bus Crash Temporarily Removed
Posted: 15-Nov-2003 8:32AM CST

Signs marking the site of a 1988 fatal bus crash near Carrollton have been temporarily removed during a project to replace signs along the entire length of I-71 in Kentucky.

Some local residents would prefer the signs stay down permanently. They feel the signs unfairly connect Carrollton to the accident. The signs originally read "site of Carrollton bush crash;" however, they were later changed to read "site of fatal bus crash." Families of accident victims want the signs returned.

On May 14, 1988, a drunk driver collided head on with a church bus. Twenty-seven passengers on the bus were killed by the ensuing inferno. Forty other passengers were injured.

More information: Hardin County News Enterprise: Signs at site of crash taken down temporarily (Nov. 13, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-71]
Accident Closes Part of Interstate 71 in Carroll County
Posted: 12-Nov-2003 8:50PM CST

An accident involving a tanker truck carrying hydrochloric acid forced the early morning closer of I-71 between exits 44 and 57. The interstate will remain closed until at least Thursday. Travelers in the area are asked to use US 42.

Up-to-date information regarding highway conditions in the area can be found at: 511.ky.gov [Outside Link]

More information: WLKY: Kentucky Highway To Be Closed Until Thursday (Nov. 12, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-71]
Cow Disrupts Traffic on I-71
Posted: 3-Nov-2003 2:31AM CST

A cow escaped from a truck on Interstate 71 on October 16 and disrupted traffic near the Oldham County-Jefferson County line for some time before being destroyed by local officials.

More information: Courier-Journal: Cow loose on I-71 disrupts traffic, is finally captured (October 17, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[KY 393]
KY 393 Widening Project on Track for 2004
Posted: 3-Nov-2003 2:31AM CST

Right-of-way acquisition has recently been completed for the KY 393 widening project between KY 22 and Interstate 71 in Oldham County. This keeps construction on track to begin in 2004.

More information: Oldham County Era: Ky. 393 widening on track for 2004 (Oct. 13, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Northern Kentucky Leaders Seek to Replace I-71/I-75 Brent Spence Bridge
Posted: 1-Oct-2003 2:12AM CDT

Leaders seek to replace the aging Brent Spence Bridge over the Ohio River. The eight-lane bridge which was built in 1963 and last remodeled in 1985, is one of 15 bridges nationwide described by the FHWA as functionally obsolete. A study is currently underway to determine how to best replace the bridge.

More information: Associated Press: N. Kentuckians seek new bridge to Cincinnati (Sept. 23, 2003) [Outside Link], Cincinnati.com: Special Report: Collision Course (Sept. 22, 2003) [Outside Link] (an analysis of the Brent Spence Bridge and proposals to replace it)

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[I-71]
New Signs on I-71 Misspell Pewee Valley
Posted: 1-Oct-2003 2:04AM CDT

As part of a project to replace signs along I-71 between Louisville and I-75, the transportation cabinet employees erected three signs misspelling "Pewee Valley" as "Peewee Valley." Local residents noticed and reported the error after installation. The transportation cabinet corrected the spelling on the signs.

More information: Courier-Journal: State is to correct spelling on Pewee Valley road signs (Sept. 11, 2003) [Outside Link] (includes a photograph of a sign with the misspelling)

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[I-71]
Rebuilt I-71 Exit Ramp Promises Improved Access to the Kentucky Speedway
Posted: 8-Aug-2003 5:09AM CDT

A new two-lane ramp from I-71 to KY 35 promises better access to the Kentucky Speedway.

Two more projects are planned for the speedway area: widening of I-71 to three lanes north of the speedway and the construction of a new road from I-71 Exit 55 to the bridge across the Ohio River at Markland Dam.

More information: The Cincinnati Enquirer: Fans have speedier way to speedway (July 31, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
More Federal Money Could be Allocated to Study Brent Spence Bridge Replacement
Posted: 27-Jul-2003 1:22AM CDT

The House Appropriations Committee approved a transportation spending bill that allocated $2.5 million to study replacing the I-71/I-75 Brent Spent Bridge over the Ohio River. The bill must still be passed by the full house, the Senate, and signed by the President before becoming law.

In February, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet launched a $2 million study to determine how to best replace the aging bridge.

More information: Kentucky Post: Bridge may get $2.5M more (July 26, 2003) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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

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

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[The Ohio River]
Kentucky Post's Jim Reis Looks At the History of the Bridges over the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 6:21PM CDT

The Kentucky Post recently posted two columns from Jim Reis looking at the history of the bridges over the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky:

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[I-71]
Road Crews Fix Accident Causing Potholes on I-71
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 6:32AM CDT

Large potholes were blamed for a series of wrecks on I-71 in Oldham County in February. One of the potholes was as large as five feet in diameter.

More information: Courier-Journal: I-71 road crews get their fill of accident-causing potholes (Feb. 26, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-71] [I-75]
Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Leaders Seek Federal Aid for Brent Spence Bridge Replacement
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 5:24AM CDT

The Cincinnati Enquirer reported in this January 16, 2003 article [Outside Link] that leaders from the Cincinnati area planned to seek quick federal assistance in replacing the Brent Spence Bridge over the Ohio River. The bridge is route of I-71 and I-75 over the Ohio River from Kentucky into Ohio.

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

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

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

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

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[I-65]
New Tourism Signs Successful
Posted: 15-Feb-2003 4:44AM CST

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) [Outside Link], Daily News: All state sites would benefit from signs (Editorial, Feb. 4, 2003) [Outside Link]

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 [Outside Link].

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[I-71] [I-75]
Future of I-71/I-75 Bridge over Ohio River in Question
Posted: 31-Dec-2002 8:02AM CST

The Brent Spence Bridge which carries I-71 and I-75 over the Ohio River is projected to only have about 15 more years of useful life. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is beginning a 30 month study to determine how to extend the life of the bridge or how to best replace it.

More information: Enquirer: Obsolete and over capacity, Brent Spence Bridge is nearly out of time (Dec. 27, 2002) [Outside Link]

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

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

More information: KYTC Press Release [Outside Link]

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[I-71]
New Interchange on I-71 near Oldham/Jefferson County Line to be Studied
Posted: 7-Sep-2002 12:27AM CDT

The need and possible locations for a new interchange on I-71 between the Gene Snyder Freeway (Interstate 265/KY 841) and the Crestwood interchange (Exit 14) will be studied. Oldham County will contribute $10,000 to the study; the state will contribute $35,000; and Hills Communities, a Jefferson County development firm, will contribute $62,000. The interchange is being studied in the hope of relieving traffic on KY 22. No plans to build an interchange are currently in the state's Six Year Highway Plan; however, that document is amended on a bi-annual basis.

More information: Courier-Journal: Need for new interchange will be studied (Jun. 13, 2002) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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[I-71]
New Exit on I-71 to Help Speedway Traffic
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 1:34AM CDT

A new interchange has opened at mile marker 55 on I-71 to help with access to the Kentucky Speedway. The interchange is part of a connector road that will connect I-71 to US 42 at Markland Dam. The road is expected to be finished by the end of next year.

More information: KYTC Press Release [Outside Link]

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[I-265]
2.2 Mile Section of Gene Snyder Freeway Closes for Two Weeks
Posted: 5-May-2002 2:22AM CDT

According to this Courier-Journal article [Outside Link] the 2.2 mile section of the Gene Snyder Freeway (KY 841 at this point) between I-71 and US 42 will be closed for two weeks while the deck of an over pass is replaced.

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

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

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

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[I-71]
KYTC and FHWA Issue Joint Statement on I-71 Project
Posted: 28-Mar-2002 2:45AM CST

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary James C. Codell III and Federal Highway Administration Division Administrator Jose Sepulveda issued the following joint statement on the I-71 widening project in Jefferson County:

"We are working together to ensure that the proposed widening of Interstate 71 between Spaghetti Junction and the Snyder Freeway in Louisville is evaluated appropriately. The Transportation Cabinet has hired a consultant to perform preliminary engineering and environmental analysis for this route consistent with fiscal constraints and schedules contained in the Cabinet's Six-Year Highway Plan. The Cabinet will develop an environmental assessment for this project, and will work closely with the community throughout the development of the project to foster public ownership and participation in the decision-making process to determine if a six-lane improvement is acceptable."

More information: KYTC Press Release [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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[I-265]
FHWA Approves Development Plan Near Gene Snyder Freeway
Posted: 4-Feb-2002 8:25PM CST

According to this Courier-Journal article [Outside Link], the Federal Highway Administration has approved plans for a new development near the Gene Snyder Freeway and I-71 in Jefferson County. Federal approval was required because it involves construction near an entrance ramp to I-265.

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

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

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

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

Kentucky is mentioned several places in the bill:

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

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

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

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

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[I-275]
Another I-275 Ramp Closing
Posted: 12-Sep-2001 1:44AM CDT

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports in this Sept. 11, 2001 article [Outside Link] that another ramp at the I-275/I-75/I-71 interchange will be temporarily closed for repaving.

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[I-71] [I-75]
Kenton County Sheriff to Patrol I-71/I-75 in Northern Kentucky
Posted: 7-Sep-2001 3:06PM CDT

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports in this Sept. 7, 2001 article [Outside Link] that the Kenton County Sheriff will be aiding Fort Mitchell Police in patrolling I-71/I-75. Construction on the northbound lanes has slowed the response time of Fort Mitchell police; the extra help is expected to help the response time.

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[I-275] [I-75]
Work at I-75 and I-275 Interchange to Close Ramp
Posted: 16-Aug-2001 6:10AM CDT

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports in this August 15, 2001 article [Outside Link] that work on the I-75/I-71 and I-275 interchange will cause the temporary closing of a ramp.

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[I-71]
I-71 Construction Cleared for Speedway
Posted: 10-Aug-2001 2:51PM CDT

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports in this August 10, 2001 article [Outside Link] that repaving work along I-71 in Gallatin County has been suspended for the weekend to allow fans easy access to the Kentucky Speedway for the Belterra Casino Indy 300 on Sunday August 12.

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

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

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

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[I-71] [I-75]
I-71/I-75 Bridge Replacement Study May Start Early
Posted: 1-Aug-2001 9:57PM CDT

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports in this July 27, 2001 article [Outside Link] that the U.S. Senate may approve a bill authorizing $2 million to begin a study on replacing Brent Spence Bridge over the Ohio River in 2002. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet had been planning to start the study in 2006.

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