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Jefferson County

This page contains news and information about roads and highways in Jefferson County, Kentucky.

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Jefferson County News Items

[The Ohio River]
New Louisville East End Bridge Opens to Traffic
Posted: 23-Dec-2016 6:19AM CST

The new Louisville East End Ohio River bridge opened to traffic on Dec. 18. It will be officially known as the Lewis and Clark Bridge: East End Partners: Lewis and Clark Bridge, East End Crossing Open to Traffic (Dec. 18, 2016) [Outside Link]

840 WHAS posted this video of a drive across the bridge [Outside Link] on their Facebook page.

Courier-Journal coverage of the bridge opening: Courier-Journal: After decades-long wait, East End bridge opens (Dec. 19, 2016) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Tolling on Downtown Louisville I-65 Bridges and East End Bridge to Begin December 30th
Posted: 23-Dec-2016 6:02AM CST

From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet:

TOLLING TO BEGIN IN LOUISVILLE AND SOUTHERN INDIANA

I-65 and East End bridges will be tolled

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Dec. 13, 2016) –  Drivers traveling in Louisville and Southern Indiana need to prepare for the start of tolling on three Ohio River bridges. Tolling on the Louisville – Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project is scheduled to begin Friday, December 30

Tolled bridges include the two I-65 bridges connecting Downtown Louisville and Southern Indiana, the new Abraham Lincoln Bridge and the improved John F. Kennedy Memorial Bridge. The new East End bridge connecting the Gene Snyder Freeway in Prospect, Ky. with State Road 265 in Utica, Ind. will also be tolled. 

RiverLink is the name of the new, all-electronic tolling system that makes the project possible. There’s no stopping, no slowing, no lines and no coin machines. Toll rates range from $2-$12, depending on the size of vehicle and whether the driver has a RiverLink account and transponder.

Drivers with transponders will pay the lowest toll rates. Drivers can set up a prepaid RiverLink account to get a transponder. All E-ZPass transponders, including the I-PASS from Illinois and the Indiana Toll Road E-ZPass, will work with the RiverLink system. No further action is necessary.

Drivers without transponders will get bills in the mail, and pay higher toll rates. Drivers who do not pay their tolls will be charged a penalty and may face restrictions on vehicle registration until tolls and penalties are paid.

Opening a RiverLink Account

Drivers can open a personal account online at www.RiverLink.com, by phone at 855-RIV-LINK or in person at one of two RiverLink customer service centers. A personal account can include up to four vehicles, with a minimum balance of $20 to open the account. The account balance rolls over month to month.

The fastest way to open a RiverLink personal account is online. The website is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week with no wait. Transponders will be mailed to account holders, free of charge.

For businesses with more than four vehicles, the fastest and easiest way to open an account is by calling a specialized customer service representative at 855-RIV-LINK.

Choice of Transponders

RiverLink local transponder is free, one per registered vehicle. The small sticker adheres to the inside of windshield, is non-transferable and will work only on tolled bridges between Louisville and Southern Indiana.

RiverLink E-ZPass transponder is $15 per transponder. It’s mounted on the inside of the windshield, is portable from vehicle to vehicle registered to a single account and works in all 16 E-ZPass states (https://e-zpassiag.com/about-e-zpass/where-can-i-use-it).

The I-64 (Sherman Minton) and the US 31/Second Street (Clark Memorial) bridges across the Ohio River will not be tolled in connection with the project. Find more information at www.RiverLink.com.

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The Louisville – Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project includes two new bridges and their approaches, an improved Kennedy Bridge and reconstruction of the Kennedy Interchange, where I-65, I-64 and I-71 come together in downtown Louisville. The new Abraham Lincoln Bridge carries six lanes of I-65 northbound traffic. The improved Kennedy Bridge carries six lanes of southbound traffic. The new East End bridge will connect the Gene Snyder Freeway in Prospect, Ky. with State Road 265 (Lee Hamilton Highway) in Utica, Ind.

Find more details on the Ohio River Bridges Project at www.kyinbridges.com.

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[The Ohio River]
Aerial Photographs of Louisville East End Bridge Progress
Posted: 14-Sep-2016 5:55PM CDT

Courtesy of Aerial Innovations here are some photographs of the progress on the new East End Ohio River crossing in Louisville-Jefferson County [Outside Link].

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

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

From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet et al:

Transportation Leaders Announce Traffic Plans With Indefinite Closing of Sherman Minton Bridge
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (September 10, 2011) — The public should expect long traffic delays, especially during peak rush hours, with the indefinite closing of the Sherman Minton Bridge between Louisville and New Albany, transportation leaders on both sides of the Ohio River announced today.
Mayor Greg Fischer, joined by officials from the Indiana Department of Transportation and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, announced the following items to help alleviate some of the congestion.
  • When possible, it’s important for people to avoid peak travel times in the morning and evening.
  • People should carpool – three or four to a vehicle – to help reduce the number of automobiles on the interstates.
  • People should stagger their commute times – going to work early and leaving early or going to work late and leaving late.
  • Companies should be as flexible as possible and allow employees to work from home…to telecommute…and to have staggered arrival and departure times.
  • If possible, when traveling within Louisville, drivers should use surface streets and stay off the interstate. This will cause more congestion on side streets, however it will help alleviate cars on the interstates.
A detailed traffic management plan is being developed to ensure that congestion is alleviated as much as possible for as long as the bridge is closed. As soon as feasible, lanes of the Second Street Bridge will be converted to reverse lanes, though that is unlikely to occur before Monday.
When the reverse lanes are in place, there will be three southbound lanes and one northbound lane during the morning commute. For the evening commute, that will reverse, with three northbound lanes and one southbound lane. Traffic flow on the Kennedy Bridge (I-65) will remain normal.
Where possible, exit ramps along I-65 in Southern Indiana will be widened from one to two lanes to help traffic flow.
In addition, officials from the Transit Authority of River City are working with the two states to develop plans to use public transit to move people by buses across the river.
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[I-264]
Westport Road Interchange Should Open by May 1
Posted: 31-Mar-2010 8:10PM CDT

The new interchange between the Watterson Expressway (I-264) and Westport Road (KY 1447) is on track to open by May 1: Louisville Courier-Journal: Westport Road interchange to open by May 1 (March 13, 2010) [Outside Link]

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[I-64]
Sherman Minton Bridge Repainting Underway
Posted: 31-Mar-2010 8:00PM CDT

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

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[The Ohio River]
Facebook Groups Opposing Tolling of Ohio River Bridges Attract Nearly 1,000 Members
Posted: 31-Mar-2010 7:56PM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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[I-65]
Revive 65 Completion Delayed until January; Watterson Expressway Work Will Resume in March or April
Posted: 30-Dec-2009 10:10PM CST

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) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridges Project Lawsuit Moving to Kentucky Court; State to Sell Bonds for Right-of-Way Purchase
Posted: 30-Dec-2009 9:54PM CST

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) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Louisville Redevelopment Authority grants $6 million for Crittenden Drive relocation
Posted: 9-Nov-2009 7:48PM CST

The Louisville Redevelopment Authority board unanimously approved the grant of $6 million to the $30 million project to relocate part of Crittenden Drive just south of the Watterson Expressway (I-264) in Louisville. The relocation project is intended to make space of expansion of the Louisville International Airport: Louisville Courier-Journal: Airport's Crittenden Drive relocation project gets $6 million (Nov. 9, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[I-264]
Preston Highway ramp to I-264 closing uncertain
Posted: 5-Nov-2009 7:35AM CST

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s plan to permanently close an entrance ramp from Preston Highway (KY 61) to the Watterson Expressway has been put on hold indefinitely: Louisville Courier-Journal: Preston Highway ramp to I-264 closing uncertain (Nov. 4, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Bridge authority members named
Posted: 3-Nov-2009 10:12PM CST

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) [Outside Link], Associated Press: 7 appointed to bridge panel (Oct. 30, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Ramp connecting pedestrian walkway to Big 4 bridge lifted
Posted: 3-Nov-2009 9:37PM CST

Workers recently lifted a platform into place to connect the Big Four bridge to a pedestrian walkway. The abandoned railroad bridge over the Ohio River is being converted for pedestrian use: Louisville Courier-Journal: Big 4 platform to be lifted into place (Oct. 28, 2009) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Big Four Bridge project moving along (Oct. 31, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[I-65]
Road projects take fill back to nature
Posted: 3-Nov-2009 9:33PM CST

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) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Suit to stop Harrods Creek Bridge work in Jefferson County Dropped
Posted: 7-Oct-2009 8:57PM CDT

A lawsuit filed by preservation River Fields aimed at preserving a deteriorating one lane bridge over Harrods Creek in Jefferson County has been dropped. Work can now resume and widening and rehabilitating the bridge: Louisville Courier-Journal: Suits dropped, Harrods Creek bridge work can resume (Oct. 5, 2009) [Outside Link]

Update 9-Oct-09: The Courier-Journal ran an opinion piece about the bridge: Louisville Courier-Journal: River Parkway? (Oct. 9, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[I-65]
Construction on I-65 in Louisville to continue through mid-October
Posted: 7-Oct-2009 8:01PM CDT

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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[The Ohio River]
Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridges Project misses financing deadline for second year in a row
Posted: 7-Oct-2009 7:26PM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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[US 421]
Kentucky, indiana Apply for Federal Stimulus Funding for Big Four and Madison-Milton Bridge Projects
Posted: 30-Sep-2009 6:48PM CDT

Both Kentucky and Indiana have applied for federal money to apply to two Ohio River bridge projects: the replacement of the US 421 bridge over the Ohio River between Milton, Kentucky and Madion, Indiana and the redecking of the Big Four Bridge over the Ohio River in downtown Louisville: Louisville Courier-Journal: $25 million in stimulus money sought for Big Four Bridge (Sept. 24, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[I-65]
Work on I-65 in Jefferson County Causes Delays
Posted: 30-Sep-2009 6:33PM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Contingency Plans Being Made in Case Tunnel is Removed from East End Bridge
Posted: 21-Sep-2009 8:38AM CDT

Planners are making contingency plans for how to proceed if a tunnel under a historic Jefferson County property is removed from plans for the new East End Bridge that is part of Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridges Project: Louisville Courier-Journal: Tunnel to bridge is now in question (Sept. 20, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[I-65]
Beshear Highlights Louisville Highway Projects During Visit
Posted: 20-Sep-2009 8:06AM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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[I-65]
Roadwork on I-65 in Louisville to Replace Concrete Surface with Asphalt
Posted: 16-Sep-2009 5:13PM CDT

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 Ohio River]
Conservation Groups File Lawsuit to Block Louisville Bridges Project
Posted: 16-Sep-2009 7:34AM CDT

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) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Suit seeks to halt bridges project (Sept. 10, 2009) [Outside Link]

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

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[The Ohio River]
Bi-state Panel Meets to Discuss Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridges Project
Posted: 15-Sep-2009 10:38PM CDT

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) [Outside Link], Louisville Courier-Journal: Ohio River bridges project negotiators will meet Tuesday (Sept. 14, 2009) [Outside Link], Louisville Courier-Journal: Bridges negotiating team to meet Tuesday (Sept. 11, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Opinions Sought on River Road Improvements in Louisville
Posted: 24-Aug-2009 8:27PM CDT

Louisville's government is seeking opinions regarding improvements to River Road: Louisville Courier-Journal: Opinions sought on River Road plans (Aug. 21, 2009) [Outside Link], City of Louisville: River Road Corridor Plan [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio Rivers Bridges Projects
Posted: 24-Aug-2009 7:59PM CDT
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[The Ohio River]
Design for Indiana Side of Big Four Bridge Walkway Nearing Completion
Posted: 20-Aug-2009 7:25AM CDT

A contracting firm hired by Jeffersonville, Indiana is putting the finishing touches on its designs for the city's connection to the the Big Four Bridge. The former railroad bridge over the Ohio River is being converted to a pedestrian walkway: Louisville Courier-Journal: Jeff design for Big Four walkway nears completion (Aug. 12, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Ohio River Bridges Project Funding Remains Uncertain
Posted: 31-Mar-2009 9:47PM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Metro Louisville Government to Take Over Maintenance of All State Roads in Jefferson County
Posted: 31-Mar-2009 9:40PM CDT

Beginning April 1, 2009 the Louisville-Jefferson County metro government will take over maintenance of state roads and state controlled traffic signals in Jefferson County. The state will pay the metro government for the maintenance expenses.

More information: Louisville Courier-Journal: Louisville to maintain state roads; City will be paid millions a year; 66 jobs to be added (March 26, 2009) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Picnic Area to Open under Kennedy Bridge
Posted: 31-Mar-2009 9:29PM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Public Meeting to Discuss Improvements to Louisville's West Market Street to be Held on Feb. 18
Posted: 12-Feb-2009 5:58PM CST

A public meeting next Wednesday, Feb 18th for the West Market Street Corridor Improvement Study. The meeting will be at Shawnee High School at 5:30pm.

More information: West Market Street Meeting Flier, Project Web Site [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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[The Ohio River]
Indiana House Committee Approves Commission to Coordinate Bridge Efforts
Posted: 31-Jan-2009 10:57AM CST

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) [Outside Link], Louisville Courier-Journal: Indiana panel may focus on Ohio River bridges (Jan. 30, 2009) [Outside Link]

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

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[I-65]
I-65: The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Highway?
Posted: 31-Jan-2007 11:16PM CST

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) [Outside Link]

Section 2E.08 [Outside Link] 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.

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[The Ohio River]
Designs for Louisville Bridges Narrowed
Posted: 30-Jul-2006 11:19PM CDT

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) [Outside Link], Kentucky-Indiana Bridges: Downtown Bridge Design Alternatives [Outside Link], Kentucky-Indiana Bridges: East End Bridge Design Alternatives [Outside Link]

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

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

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[The Ohio River]
Designs Unveiled for Indiana Side of Big Four Bridge
Posted: 30-Jul-2006 11:12PM CDT

An engineering firm recently unveiled designs for the pedestrian approach to the Indiana side of the Big Four Bridge. The former railroad bridge between Southern Indiana and Louisville is being converted to a pedestrian and bicycle crossing: Courier-Journal: Beginning of an end for Big Four; Designs unveiled for Ind. side of walkway (May 10, 2006) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Big Four Bridge pedway may get boost from House; Federal spending bill includes $500,000 for it (June 14, 2006) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Gradual ramp will lead up to Big Four Bridge; soft soil foils other plan (June 17, 2006) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Search is on for Another Kennedy Bridge Painting Contractor
Posted: 30-Jul-2006 11:11PM CDT

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) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Kennedy Bridge will just be taupe; To save money, time, 2 colors cut (June 14, 2006) [Outside Link], Associated Press: State Rejects Lone Bid For Kennedy Bridge Painting (June 25, 2006) [Outside Link], Business First of Louisville: Bridge repainting bid comes in over budget (July 21, 2006) [Outside Link]

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

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

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[US 150]
K&I Bridge Video
Posted: 30-Jul-2006 11:09PM CDT

The Courier-Journal has posted a video of the Ohio River flowing past a barge lodged against the K&I bridge: Courier-Journal: Video: The Ohio River at the K&I Bridge (April 13, 2006 [Outside Link])

The railroad bridge is now operated by Norfolk Southern. At one time, it also carried automobile vehicle traffic.

Removal of the barge was delayed for some time: New Albany (Ind.) Tribune and Jeffersonville (Ind.) Evening News: Barge to enjoy holiday weekend in area; Stuck visitor to remain a few more days (May 27, 2006) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Crippled barge uprighted, moved; Fleet will push it to Mississippi (May 31, 2006) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Construction Begins on Louisville Bridges Project
Posted: 30-Jul-2006 11:08PM CDT

Construction work has begun on the Louisville east end bridge project. This phase of work involves the reconstruction of the current end of the Gene Snyder Freeway at US 42: Busines First of Louisville: Bridges project to begin construction activity (March 2, 2006) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Relief on way for U.S. 42-Snyder intersection; Open house to let public examine project (April 26, 2006) [Outside Link], Lexington Herald-Leader: Ground broken for two costly Ohio River bridges (June 20, 2006) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Dynamite work to start at U.S. 42 and Snyder (July 19, 2006) [Outside Link]

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[I-265]
Plane Lands Safely on I-265
Posted: 1-Mar-2006 5:46AM CST

On Sunday, a small plane landed safely on the Snyder Freeway after running out of fuel: Courier-Journal: Plane makes emergency landing on Snyder Freeway (Feb. 27, 2006) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Funding Louisville Bridges Project Could Delay 80 Other Road Projects
Posted: 1-Mar-2006 5:18AM CST

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) [Outside Link], Danville Advocate-Messenger: Bridge construction could delay U.S. 27 project in Garrard (Feb. 28, 2006) [Outside Link]

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

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

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[The Ohio River]
Kennedy Bridge Painting Contract Cancelled
Posted: 1-Mar-2006 2:39AM CST

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) [Outside Link], Associated Press: State cancels bridge painting company's contract (Feb. 9, 2006) [Outside Link]

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[I-65]
Plan to Reconstruct I-65 in Louisville Released
Posted: 5-Feb-2006 2:31AM CST

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) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Kennedy Bridge Painting Project Halts
Posted: 5-Feb-2006 2:27AM CST

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) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: State might extend deadline for painting Kennedy Bridge (Jan. 8, 2006) [Outside Link]

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

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

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[New Route]
Final Route of Old Henry Road-Crestwood Connector Route Chosen
Posted: 5-Feb-2006 2:24AM CST

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet recently held public meetings to discuss the chosen alternative for a connector between Old Henry Road at the Gene Snyder Freeway (I-265) in Jefferson County and the Oldham County community of Crestwood: Courier-Journal: Old Henry Road bypass apparently set; Final hearing held on alignment plan (Nov. 22, 2005) [Outside Link], Oldham County New Era: Plans for Old Henry bypass move forward (Nov. 28, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[KY 1447]
Part of Westport Road Widening Completed
Posted: 5-Feb-2006 2:24AM CST

Another phase of the Westport Road widening project in Jefferson County has been completed. The road has been widened to five lanes between the Watterson Expressway (I-264) and Herr Lane. A new interchange with the Watterson Expressway during the next phases of the project: Courier-Journal: First part of Westport project completed; Road widening work was stalled for years (Nov. 17, 2005) [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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[The Ohio River]
Louisville East End Bridge Design Process
Posted: 5-Nov-2005 4:10AM CST

The Oldham Era takes a look at the process of designing the proposed Louisville East End bridge: Oldham Era: Designers seek input for East End bridge (Nov. 4, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Cruise Gives Insight on Bridge Routes
Posted: 30-Oct-2005 11:44PM CST

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) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Two meetings will seek ideas on design of East End bridge; Open houses set for today, Thursday (Oct. 18, 2005) [Outside Link], Jeffersonville Evening News: Area residents weigh-in on east-end bridge design (Oct. 19, 2005) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: A recipe to rebuild Spaghetti Junction; Untangling plan will be unveiled this week (Oct. 23, 2005) [Outside Link], WAVE 3: Spaghetti Junction Makeover Projected To Cost $1.1 Billion (Oct. 28, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Public Gets Say on New Ohio River Bridge Designs
Posted: 2-Oct-2005 8:30PM CDT

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) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Residents' thoughts vary on downtown bridge (Sept. 21, 2005) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Thoughts on bridge flow freely at meeting; 'Spectacular' span? Low-maintenance? (Sept. 21, 2005) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Jefferson County Bridge Widened
Posted: 10-Sep-2005 9:42PM CDT

A bridge on Fern Creek Road in Jefferson County was recently widened: Courier-Journal: Road will reopen with wider bridge; Cedar Creek span is near subdivision (Aug. 3, 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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[The Ohio River]
“Big Four” Bridge Inspected
Posted: 10-Sep-2005 9:39PM CDT

The “Big Four” bridge over the Ohio River at Louisville was inspected in July. Local officials hope to turn the abandoned railroad bridge into a pedestrian bridge: Business First of Louisville: Big Four Bridge inspection under way (July 8, 2005) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Engineering crews check Big Four Bridge; Study to determine work needed to create walkway (July 9, 2005) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Shore work to precede bridge walkway; Last phase nears for Waterfront Park (July 24, 2005) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Jeff taking 1st step on Big Four walkway; Grant to go for drawings of access concepts (Aug. 20, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Kennedy Bridge Repainting Faces Problem
Posted: 10-Sep-2005 9:37PM CDT

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) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: State won't pay more for bridge work (July 7, 2005) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Setbacks again mar Kennedy bridge painting; Company says it needs more time, money to finish the job (Aug. 27, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Indiana Buys First Land for New Bridges
Posted: 1-Jul-2005 3:50AM CDT

Indiana has bought the first parcel of land that will someday become the right-of-way for the new Louisville east-end bridge: Louisville Courier-Journal: Indiana buys land for bridges project; Purchase is first in long process (June 12, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Long-term Plans for Improving KY 22 in Jefferson County Unveiled
Posted: 1-Jul-2005 3:49AM CDT

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet recently unveiled long-term plans to improve KY 22 in southeast Jefferson County: Louisville Courier-Journal: Ky.22 overhauls unveiled; Study suggests wider highway, other ideas (June 10, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Money May be Coming for Louisville Greenway Project
Posted: 1-Jul-2005 3:45AM CDT

The U.S. House of Representatives recently approved a bill that includes $3.1 million for the construction of a greenway project in Louisville. The project will eventually form a loop along the Ohio River in Louisville and Southern Indiana–the two sides of the river would be connected by walkways across the K&I Bridge and the Big Four Bridge.

More information: Louisville Courier-Journal: Greenway trail along riverfront might get $3.1million boost (May 31, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[I-65]
I-65 Work in Southern Indiana Complete
Posted: 1-Jul-2005 3:44AM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Countdown Signals Installed Throughout Louisville
Posted: 16-May-2005 12:04AM CDT

“Countdown” pedestrian signals have been installed at a number of Louisville crosswalks. These signals include a countdown timer to indicate how much time a pedestrian has to cross the street before the signal changes.

More information: Lousville Courier-Journal: 'Don't Walk' signs eliminate guesswork (May 14, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[New Route]
Bashford Manor Lane Widening Project to Start this Summer
Posted: 30-Apr-2005 5:55AM CDT

A project to widen Bashford Manor Lane is planned to begin this summer: Courier-Journal: Bashford Manor Lane widening project will start this summer (April 21, 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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[KY 1447]
Westport Road Widening on Track
Posted: 30-Apr-2005 5:51AM CDT

WAVE 3 TV reports that the Westport Road widening project remains on schedule: WAVE 3: Westport Widening Project Still On Track Despite Storm Delays (April 4, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[KY 1447]
Westport Road Widening Project Will Include Landscaping
Posted: 1-Apr-2005 3:52AM CST

The Westport Road widening project will include the planting of shrubbery along the newly widened highway. Construction on the final phase of the project, an interchange with the Watterson Expressway (I-264), is expected to begin in June 2006.

More information: Courier-Journal: Widening Westport Road (March 30, 2005) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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[The Ohio River]
East End Bridge Path Marked With Balloons
Posted: 1-Apr-2005 3:47AM CST

The Louisville Courier-Journal gathered reactions to a study that involved the use of balloons to mark the proposed path and height of the approaches to the proposed Eastern Jefferson County Ohio River Bridge: Courier-Journal: Balloon experiment marks path of planned bridge (March 10, 2005) [Outside Link]

In related news, Clark County, Indiana recently hired a consultant to help plan for development once the new east end bridge is open: The New Albany (Ind.) Evening News: County prepares for impact of east end bridge (March 11, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Residents React to East End Bridge Balloons
Posted: 10-Mar-2005 5:33AM CST

Louisville’s WAVE 3 gathers area-resident’s reactions to the balloons marking the path of the proposed east end bridge: WAVE 3: Prospect Residents Get Bridge Preview (March 9, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Balloons to Mark East End Bridge Path
Posted: 2-Mar-2005 4:17PM CST

On March 8th and 9th, engineers designing the new East End Bridge over the Ohio River in Jefferson County will use balloons to mark the approximate location and height of the approach to the proposed approach to the bridge: Business First: Balloons will simulate East End bridge approach (Feb. 28, 2005) [Outside Link]

March 9, 2005 Update: More information: Jeffersonville (Ind.) Evening News: Engineers will use balloons to show bridge approach elevation (March 6, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Jeffersonville, Ind. Considers Options for Big Four Bridge
Posted: 2-Mar-2005 4:17PM CST

Now that the legal battle over the Big Four Bridge appears to be over, the city of Jeffersonville in Indiana has restarted a project to determine what to do with the Indiana side of the bridge. The city of Louisville plans to connect the abandoned railroad bridge to its Waterfront Park and turn the bridge into a pedestrian walkway across the Ohio River: Jeffersonville, Ind. Evening News: Jeff considers options for Big Four Bridge connection (Feb. 28, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
K&I Bridge Targeted for Pedestrian Use
Posted: 9-Feb-2005 1:55AM CST

The mayors of Louisville and New Albany, Indiana are proposing that the K&I Bridge west of downtown Louisville become part of a 14-mile bicycle/pedestrian loop along the Ohio River in Louisville and Southern Indiana. The railroad bridge is owned and operated by the Norfolk Southern railroad. The bridge consists of two sets of railroad tracks—that carry up to thirty trains per day—down the center flanked by auto lanes on either side. The bridge was closed to vehicle traffic after an overweight truck broke through the metal grating of the roadway.

A spokesman for Norfolk Southern expressed concerns over the safety of such a plan.

More information: Louisville Courier-Journal: Letting cyclists on bridge backed (Feb. 8, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Land in Path of Louisville East End Bridge Develops
Posted: 7-Feb-2005 2:09AM CST

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) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Couple's dream home going up in path of proposed bridge (Jan. 23, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Louisville and Jeffersonville May Cooperate on Big Four Project
Posted: 7-Feb-2005 2:02AM CST

The cities of Louisville and Jeffersonville, Indiana may co-operate on a project to convert the abandoned Big Four railroad bridge to a pedestrian walkway according to Jeffersonville Mayor Rob Waiz: Courier-Journal: Louisville, Jeff may join forces on Big Four funds (Jan. 19, 2005) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Fight for the Big Four Bridge May Finally be Over
Posted: 19-Jan-2005 2:49AM CST

A developer may finally give up his fight to stop the city of Louisville from condemning the abandoned Big Four railroad bridge over the Ohio River after the Kentucky Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal of a lower court’s decision: Lousville Courier-Journal: Bridge walkway appears likely (Jan. 14, 2005) [Outside Link], Associated Press: City's Fight For Bridge May Be Over (Jan. 14, 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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[US 31E]
Residents Want US 31E Improved
Posted: 22-Dec-2004 9:07PM CST

In response to the number of accidents along the road, area residents would like to see safety improvements along US 31E between Bardstown and Louisville: WAVE 3: Residents Want Deadly Road Improved (Dec. 21, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-65]
Southern Indiana I-65 Reconstruction Project to be completed in January
Posted: 22-Dec-2004 9:05PM CST

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) [Outside Link], Indiana Department of Transportation: Revive 65 [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Engineers Examine How New Louisville Bridges Will Change Jeffersonville, Indiana Traffic Patterns
Posted: 11-Dec-2004 12:48AM CST

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) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
October and Year-End Transportation Konnection Newsletters
Posted: 11-Dec-2004 12:20AM CST

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

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)

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Two Portland Streets Will See Two-Traffic
Posted: 11-Dec-2004 12:17AM CST

Louisville Metro government recently began a project to convert parts of Portland Avenue and Bank Street to two-way streets in the community of Portland. The streets have been one-way for more than forty years. The changes will help traffic flow to a new Kroger grocery store.

More information: Courier-Journal: Portland prepares for two-way traffic (Dec. 7, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Officials Discuss Pedestrian Safety in Louisville
Posted: 11-Dec-2004 12:17AM CST

Just days after a study revealed Louisville to be a statistically dangerous place for pedestrians, the National Center for Bicycling and Walking led a workshop to discuss ways to improve pedestrian safety in Louisville. Bob Chauncey, the policy director for the organization, praised the recent addition of bike lanes in Seneca Park and urged the city to move forward with the Big Four Bridge project: Courier-Journal: Officials discuss ways to improve walking safety (Dec. 7, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Funding Secured for Big Four Bridge
Posted: 7-Dec-2004 1:03AM CST

U.S. Representative Ann Northup has secured $4.5 million in federal funds that will help pay to convert the abandoned Big Four Railroad Bridge over the Ohio River at Louisville into a pedestrian walkway: Assocated Press: Funding Approved To Turn Old Ohio River Bridge Into Pedestrian Walkway (Dec. 6, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Louisville Streets Dangerous for Pedestrians
Posted: 5-Dec-2004 8:12PM CST

A recent study has shown that pedestrian fatalities in Louisville occur at rate higher than the national average: Business First of Louisville: Pedestrian fatalities in Louisville above national average (Nov. 29, 2004) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Walkers, be wary (Dec. 1, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
LED Traffic Lights Take Hold in Kentucky
Posted: 5-Dec-2004 8:11PM CST

Transportation authorities across Kentucky have been replacing the incandescent halogen bulbs in stop lights with energy saving Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs. In addition to saving energy, the LED bulbs require less maintenance. LED technology has been around for decades; however, only recently have LED prices fallen to such a level where it became cost effective to them in traffic lights.

More information: Courier-Journal: LED traffic signals save money (Nov. 29, 2004) [Outside Link]

(Updated Dec. 22) More information: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Light Emitting Diode (LED) Traffic Signals are Being Installed in Kentucky to Reduce Cost and Improve Efficiency (Dec. 21, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Design Team Picked for Louisville East End Bridge
Posted: 17-Nov-2004 2:09AM CST

The design team has been picked for the new Louisville East End Bridge over the Ohio River: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: East End Bridge Design Team Selected (Nov. 12, 2004) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Bridge designer selected (Nov. 13, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Another Defeat for Company Blocking Sale of Big Four Bridge
Posted: 17-Nov-2004 2:06AM CST

The company trying to block the sale of the Big Four Bridge for use as a pedestrian walk way received another defeat when the U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear their appeal. The company has yet to win a single court case in its three years of trying to block the condemnation of the former railroad bridge: Courier-Journal: Ruling gives boost to plans for Big Four Bridge (Nov. 3, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Firm Picked to Design New Downtown Louisville Bridge
Posted: 31-Oct-2004 11:13PM CST

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 [Outside Link]. Construction is tentatively expected to begin in 2007.

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

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[The Ohio River]
Tolling New Louisville Bridges Become Campaign Issue in Indiana
Posted: 28-Oct-2004 1:57AM CDT

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) [Outside Link], (Jeffersonville, Ind.) Evening News: Hill, Sodrel battle over bridge tolls (Oct. 26, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Highway Litter Pickup Plan Unveiled in Louisville
Posted: 19-Oct-2004 11:59PM CDT

A $175,000 pilot program will pickup trash along Louisville’s major roads three times over the next 18 months: WAVE 3: Abramson Unveils Street Sweeping Program To Clean, Pick Up Litter On Major Roads (Oct. 18, 2004) [Outside Link], Louisville Courier-Journal: Program paves way for sweeping nearly 90 major suburban roads in Louisville (Oct. 19, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Ceremonial Painting Marks Start of Kennedy Bridge Repainting Project
Posted: 17-Oct-2004 8:31AM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Kennedy Bridge Painting Project Begins
Posted: 10-Oct-2004 11:50PM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Bridge Engineering Firms from across the US Compete to Design Louisville Bridges
Posted: 10-Oct-2004 11:47PM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Festival Will Celebrate 100th Anniversary of Tyler Park Bridge
Posted: 11-Sep-2004 7:11AM CDT

This years Tyler Park Fall Festival will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the opening of the bridge now known as Tyler Park Bridge. The bridge carries Baxter Avenue over a deep valley in Louisville. The festival will be held from 12:30 to 8:00pm Sunday in the park adjacent to the bridge.

More information: Courier-Journal: Fest will celebrate Tyler Park Bridge's 100th anniversary (Sept. 7, 2004) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: City park concerts get people out and about (Aug. 25, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[I-264]
Shawnee Expressway Rehabilitation Project Complete
Posted: 6-Sep-2004 8:59PM CDT

Work to rehabilitate the Shawnee Exressway—I-264 between Dixie Highway and I-64 west of downtown Louisville—was symbolically completed at an August 11, 2004 ribbon cutting.

More information: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Ribbon Cutting Marks End of Shawnee Expressway Project (August 11, 2004) [Outside Link], Shawnee Expressway Project: Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony (August 11, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Indiana to Split Costs of Painting Kennedy Bridge
Posted: 20-Aug-2004 5:34AM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
States Seek Design for new Louisville Bridges
Posted: 20-Aug-2004 5:33AM CDT

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) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Bridge designs sought (July 15, 2004) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
News Notes
Posted: 20-Aug-2004 5:32AM CDT
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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Louisville Wins another Round in Fight to Obtain Rights to the Big Four Bridge
Posted: 12-Jul-2004 12:16AM CDT

The Kentucky Court of Appeals has ruled that Louisville may condemn the Big Four Bridge and incorporate it into plans for a waterfront park. The railroad bridge was abandoned in 1969 after the merger of the New York Central and Pennsylvania Railroads and has sat unused since. The city would like to turn the bridge into a pedestrian walkway over the Ohio River. Despite losing yet another round in the legal battle for the bridge, a lawyer representing the current owners of the bridge plan to continue fighting.

More information: Courier-Journal: City wins another ruling in bridge battle (July 10, 2004) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Appeals Court gives city another win in effort to acquire bridge (July 10, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[New Route]
Preliminary Alternatives Chosen for Old Henry Road-Crestwood Connector Project
Posted: 12-Jul-2004 12:15AM CDT

The Oldham Era reports that the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet his recently reported its preliminary preferred alternatives for a new route connecting Old Henry Road in Jefferson County to the community of Crestwood in Oldham County. The four mile highway is expect to requite the razing of one home: Oldham Era: State chooses plan for bypass (July 9, 2004) [Outside Link]

More information on the project can be found on the official website for the project [Outside Link].

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Louisville-Area Transportation Plan Updated
Posted: 30-Jun-2004 12:12AM CDT

Some alterations have been made to the Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency’s Transportation Improvement Plans. The changes reflect changes relating to the funding of the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridge Project: The (Jeffersonville, Ind.) Evening News: Transportation plan is updated for Bridges project (June 28, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Road Paralleling Snyder Freeway Being Planned in Eastern Jefferson County
Posted: 30-Jun-2004 12:08AM CDT

Louisville Metro officials are planning a new road that would parallel the Gene Snyder Freeway between Seatonville Road and Shelbyville Road. The road would be built to the west of the freeway. Though a timetable for actual construction has not been set at this time, planners are hoping to develop a plan so that right-of-way can be purchased before the corridor becomes heavily developed.

More information: Courier-Journal: Road to run parallel to Snyder Freeway in the planning stage (June 25, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Transportation Cabinet Shows Off Its New “War Room”
Posted: 24-Jun-2004 1:36AM CDT

The Transportation Cabinet recently showed off its news “war room” to the media. The room in the cabinet’s new Frankfort offices allow officials to monitor road conditions around the state—including live video from Louisville, Northern Kentucky, and the Cumberland Gap Tunnel: Courier-Journal: High-tech operations center will aid emergency response (June 22, 2004) [Outside Link], Lexington Herald-Leader: Transportation base gets high-tech upgrade (June 22, 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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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
River Road Extension Planned in Downtown Louisville
Posted: 24-Jun-2004 1:32AM CDT

Louisville has plans to extend River Road along the Ohio River to the west of its current terminus in downtown: Courier-Journal: River Road extension proposed (June 15, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Contract Awarded to Paint the Kennedy Bridge
Posted: 24-Jun-2004 1:29AM CDT

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

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Anti-Litter Effort in Louisville
Posted: 23-Jun-2004 8:01AM CDT

State transportation funds are being used for an anti-litter ad campaign in the Louisville area: Courier-Journal: Anti-trash Push Starts (June 4, 2004) [Outside Link]

The funding was approved during the 2002 Regular Session of the state legislature.

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[The Ohio River]
Activist Group Denounces Louisville East End Bridge and I-66
Posted: 23-Jun-2004 8:00AM CDT
Topics: Topic listing supressed. [26 topics related to this item]

A report by a tax watchdog group and environmental activist group denounces plans to construct a new Ohio River bridge in eastern Jefferson County and plans to construct Interstate 66 across Kentucky: Courier-Journal: East End bridge draws fire (June 3, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
New Chief Engineer Appointed to Louisville Highway District
Posted: 23-Jun-2004 7:56AM CDT

Gov. Fletcher and Transportation Secretary Bailey have appointed Barry Sanders to serve as chief district engineer for the Transportation Cabinet’s District 5 which is based in Louisville.

More information: KYTC: Governor Ernie Fletcher and Transportation Secretary Clay Bailey Appoint Chief District Engineer for Highway District 5 in Louisville (June 1, 2004) [Outside Link], Business First: State Names Head of Louisville-area Transportation Operation (June 1, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Public Meetings to Discuss Louisville Area Transportation Needs to be Held Next Week
Posted: 27-May-2004 6:39PM CDT

The Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency will hold four meetings over the next couple of weeks to gain public input on Louisville Area Transportation needs. The comments will be used in the creation of the area.s long-term transportation plan: Horizon 2030.

More information: Courier-Journal: Hearings next month seek transportation suggestions (May 27, 2004) [Outside Link], Metro Louisville Department of Planning and Design Services Transportation Division [Outside Link]

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[KY 1447]
Westport Road Project Underway
Posted: 26-May-2004 3:24AM CDT

The Courier-Journal reports that a ground breaking ceremony was to be held for Westport Road reconstruction project today. The project involves widening Westport Road (KY 1447) from Hubbards Lane to Hurstbourne Parkway in eastern Jefferson County and a construction of an interchange with the Watterson Expressway (I-264). Construction of the $46.1 million project is expected to take several years.

More information: Courier-Journal: Westport Road widening project to start today (May 25, 2004) [Outside Link], Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Ground Breaking Held for Westport Road Project (May 25, 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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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Quickies: Honoring Native Musicians, Warren County Area Projects, Environmentalists Against Expedited Projects
Posted: 21-Apr-2004 5:05AM CDT

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

A ceremony has held recently to dedicate the Helen Brown Bridge [Outside Link]. 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) [Outside Link]

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

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reminds motorists to brake for construction workers [Outside Link].

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

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[The Ohio River]
Kennedy Bridge to Finally be Painted
Posted: 21-Apr-2004 5:04AM CDT

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) [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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[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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[The Ohio River]
Louisville Bridges Public Meetings
Posted: 29-Mar-2004 12:15AM CST

Public meetings were held recently to discuss funding for bridges over the Ohio River at Louisville; however, attendance was sparse and little information is available about what was discussed: (Jeffersonville, Ind.) Evening News: Public hearings to evaluate bridge funding (March 18, 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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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
2030 Louisville Area Transportation Plan Being Developed
Posted: 29-Feb-2004 9:41AM CST

The Jeffersonville (Ind.) Evening News reports that the Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency (KIPDA) has begun work on updating the Louisville metropolitan area master transportation plan. The next version of the plan is to include all transportation projects planned up through the year 2030. The KIPDA region includes five counties in Kentucky and southern Indiana.

More information: The Jeffersonville (Ind.) Evening News: KIPDA starts work on 2030 transportation master plan (Feb. 28, 2004) [Outside Link], KIPDA: Transportation Division [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Pothole Season
Posted: 29-Feb-2004 9:40AM CST

The Courier-Journal reports on the annual effort to fill in winter's newly created potholes: Courier-Journal: Open season on potholes (Feb. 27, 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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[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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[New Route]
Developments Continue Along Old Henry Road Despite Uncertainty over Re-routing
Posted: 20-Feb-2004 7:34AM CST

Despite the lack of a final concerning the reconstruction of Old Henry Road in Jefferson and Oldham Counties, developers continue to begin construction of new projects along the road. A planning study concerning reconstruction of the route between Crestwood and Pewee Valley is expected to be complete this summer.

More information: Courier-Journal: Two proposals for Old Henry Road advance (Feb. 18, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Concerns Raised Over Funding for Louisville Bridges Project
Posted: 10-Feb-2004 11:14AM CST

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) [Outside Link]

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[I-65]
University of Louisville to Undertake Traffic Study
Posted: 26-Jan-2004 2:38AM CST

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) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Transportation Spending Included in Omnibus Spending Bill
Posted: 26-Jan-2004 2:38AM CST

The spending bill approved by Congress this past Thursday includes funding for a number of Kentucky projects including $9.8 for the Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridge Project (including money for right-of-way purchase), $2.5 million to replace TARC busses and trolleys in Louisville, and $1.5 million to reconstruct the intersection of KY 911 and KY 115 in Oak Grove.

More information: Courier-Journal: Louisville projects net $36 million (Jan. 23, 2004) [Outside Link], (Louisville) Business First: Louisville projects getting $36.16 million in federal funding (Jan. 22, 2004) [Outside Link], (Hopkinsville) Kentucky New Era: Senate OKs $1.5 million for Oak Grove road upgrades (Jan. 24, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Motorists Ignore Jefferson County Road Closed Sign to Find: A Closed Road
Posted: 26-Jan-2004 2:37AM CST

For the past six months, motorists have ignored road closed signs on Dorsey Lane near LaGrange Road in eastern Jefferson County only to find that the road is, in fact, closed. On June 30, 2003, CSX Transportation closed the railroad crossing on Dorsey Lane; however, traffic still continues to try to cross there. In the process of turning around, motorists are destroying local resident Jim Weinert's driveway.

Weinert recently contacted CSX to see what could be done about the traffic situation.

More information: Courier-Journal: Hint to motorists: When sign says, 'Road Closed,' it is (Jan. 23, 2004) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Louisville Metro Councilman Proposes Southwest Jefferson Bridge
Posted: 18-Jan-2004 7:03PM CST

In addition to the two proposed new bridges in eastern Jefferson County, Louisville Metro Councilman Doug Hawkins is pushing for the construction of a bridge over the Ohio River in the western part of the county. The bridge would be two-lanes and would connect the Gene Snyder Freeway with either Cane Run Road or Indiana 111.

The environment impact study for the two proposed interstate bridges included a southwest bridge option; however, it concluded that traffic usage would not be high. A southwestern bridge would likely carry 14,000 cars per day compared to 68,000 for the easternmost proposed interstate bridge.

More information: Courier-Journal: Southwest Jefferson bridge proposed (Jan. 17, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Prospect Launches Self-Promotion Campaign
Posted: 6-Jan-2004 6:50AM CST

The northeastern Jefferson County suburb of prospect will promote itself during a year-long .We Love Prospect. campaign. The city hopes to use its proximity to a proposed Ohio River bridge to attract new residents.

More information: Courier-Journal: Prospect prepares PR blitz to counter bridge publicity (Dec. 22, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Kennedy Bridge Painting May Resume
Posted: 6-Jan-2004 6:48AM CST

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) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Bridge-painting, stopped after bribery scandal, may get jump-start (Dec. 6, 2003) [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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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Oak Street Interchange Open in Louisville
Posted: 6-Jan-2004 6:46AM CST

Work to construct a diamond interchange at 9th Street and Oak Street in Louisville has been completed.

More information: Courier-Journal: Oak Street interchange set to open tomorrow (Dec. 2, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Federal Money Earmarked to Study Big Four Bridge
Posted: 6-Jan-2004 6:46AM CST

U.S. Representative Ann Northup secured $750,000 in federal funding for a Corps of Engineers study on converting the abandoned Big Four railroad bridge in downtown Louisville to a pedestrian walkway connecting Louisville and Jeffersonville, Indiana.

More information: Associated Press: More federal money earmarked for Ohio River bridge study (Dec. 1, 2003) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Big Four study gains $750,000 (Dec. 1, 2003) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Bridge remains a monument to dead workers (Dec. 23, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Jefferson Boulevard Extension Opens
Posted: 6-Jan-2004 6:45AM CST

A 1.5-mile extension of Jefferson Boulevard between Outer Loop and Poplar Level Road in Jefferson County opened November paving the way for new developments in the area.

More information: Courier-Journal: New road paves way for Okolona business park (Nov. 21, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Receives National Roadway Safety Award
Posted: 6-Jan-2004 4:10AM CST

From http://www.kytc.state.ky.us/news/11-21-03.htm [Outside Link]:

Louisville, Kentucky (November 21, 2003)-The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) received a national award this week for an innovative safety project that has reduced the number of accidents at a busy Louisville intersection.
The Brook and Jefferson Streets intersection in downtown Louisville, with 32,000 vehicles a day, was also a very frequent scene for accidents and near-accidents. The Auto Incident Recording System (AIRS), consisting of video cameras, microphones, computers and a video recording system, was installed in July, 2001.
The data collected on AIRS showed that 50% of the crashes and 33% of the near crashes were associated with identical illegal left turns. Following the installation of additional signage and curb extensions, the crash number has been cut in half.
James C. Codell, III, KYTC Secretary, received the award on Wednesday in Washington, DC from the Roadway Safety Foundation and the Federal Highway Administration. Kentucky was one of 13 projects selected from more than 130 entries as an initiative for saving lives by improving roadway design, operations and overall planning.
The monitoring system is part of the Traffic Management System in the Greater Louisville Area (TRIMARC) project, which is managed by Northrop Grumman Mission Systems. The Louisville Metro Police and Public Works Department have been partners in the safety endeavor.
In announcing the award, Secretary Codell said, “Safety is the number one priority for us at the Cabinet and we are honored to be recognized for improvements that have made conditions safer for motorists.” Codell explained that the use of state-of-the-art technology to make roadways safer is truly the wave of the future.
Now that enhancements have been made at this key intersection, the equipment will be moved in the next few months to another high-incident location to collect similar data. The equipment is only used for improving safety and research purposes and not for enforcement. Louisville is the only US installation for this equipment, developed by Mitsubishi Electric Company of Japan.
-30-
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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Toll Road "Credits" to be Used to Fund LexTran and TARC
Posted: 15-Nov-2003 8:32AM CST

The commonwealth will use a provision of the federal Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA) to receive federal money to fund LexTran and TARC. The ISTEA allows states to use money spent constructing toll roads that are now part of the National Highway System to be used as credits to receive federal matching funds. Usually, states must match 20% of the federal money applied to highway and transit project; however, Kentucky will use credits accumulated through the construction of the Kentucky Turnpike and parkway system in place of the 20% state matching funds.

More information: KYTC Press Release: LexTran and TARC Public Transit Systems Receive Funding through Toll Road Monies (Nov. 12, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Governors Name Panel to Oversee Role of Minority Contractors in Louisville-Southern Indiana Bridge Project
Posted: 15-Nov-2003 8:31AM CST

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) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Governors appoint two-state panel for bridge projects (Nov. 13, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
Public Meetings Held to Discuss Plans for Fegenbush Road Intersections in Jefferson County
Posted: 11-Nov-2003 5:20AM CST

On Thursday, November 6, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet held a public meeting to discuss improvements to two Jefferson County intersections on Fegenbush Road: one at Outer Loop and the other Beulah Church Road.

More information: Courier-Journal: State seeks public input on intersection work (Nov. 5, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
New Aiken Road Bridge in Jefferson County Should Be Open By Year's End
Posted: 3-Nov-2003 2:32AM CST

A new bridge over Floyds Fork should be open by years end. An old one-lane bridge was closed in July 2002 after an inspector found dangerous problems with the bridge.

More information: Courier-Journal: Aiken Road bridge quickly takes shape (October 24, 2003) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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[I-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 1020]
Completion of 2nd Street Widening in Louisville Nears
Posted: 1-Oct-2003 2:19AM CDT

A project to widen four blocks of Second Street in downtown Louisville is scheduled to be completed on December 19. The project is currently three months behind schedule.

More information: Courier-Journal: Second Street project nears completion (Sept. 29, 2003) [Outside Link]

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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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[New Route]
Public Opinion Mixed on New Oldham County Connector
Posted: 1-Oct-2003 2:00AM CDT

Dozens of people have submitted comments on a proposal to build a new connector to route from near the Gene Snyder Freeway in Jefferson County to Crestwood in Oldham County. The new route would be four lanes and is intended to provide improved access to Pewee Valley.

More information: Courier-Journal: Dozens comment on connector road (Sept. 9, 2003) [Outside Link], Oldham County Era: State seeking input on Old Henry bypass (Sept. 12, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
FHWA Approves Routes for New Louisville Bridges
Posted: 1-Oct-2003 1:58AM CDT

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) [Outside Link], Courier Journal: Bridges project clears U.S. review (Sept. 24, 2003) [Outside Link], KYTC Press Release: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Recognized Nationally for Environmental Stewardship on Ohio River Bridges Project (Sept. 26, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-264]
Patrols to Increase on Shawnee Expressway during Reconstruction
Posted: 4-Sep-2003 8:32PM CDT

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will be employing off duty police to patrol the Shawnee Expressway 24-hours a day. The number of accidents on the 8-mile stretch of I-264 has increased sharply since construction began in March.

More information: Courier-Journal: Patrols to increase along stretch of interstate (Sept 3, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[KY 1020]
Work on 2nd Street in Louisville Unearths Street Car Tracks
Posted: 31-Aug-2003 4:28PM CDT

Work to widen and repave part of 2nd Street in downtown Louisville has unearthed ties and tracks from a street car system that last ran on Louisville's streets in 1948.

More information: Courier-Journal: Downtown streetcar tracks, ties unearthed (Aug. 31, 2003) [Outside Link] (includes photograph)

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[New Route]
Public Meeting Held to Discuss New Oldham County Connector Route
Posted: 30-Aug-2003 7:29PM CDT

Public meetings were held last week to discuss possible routes for a new connector route between Old Henry Old at the Gene Snyder Freeway in Jefferson County and KY 22 in Crestwood in Oldham County.

More information: Courier-Journal: Views on proposed road 2 counties are sought (Aug. 26, 2003) [Outside Link]

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

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

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[US 31]
Work to Repair Clark Memorial Bridge Frustrates Some Drivers
Posted: 8-Aug-2003 6:06AM CDT

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has begun an $8.9 million project to repair the deck the US 31 Clark Memorial Bridge across the Ohio River at Louisville. Delays on the bridge have forced some drivers to seek alternate routes across the Ohio River.

More information: Associated Press: Work on Ohio River bridge draws complaints (Aug. 8, 2003) [Outside Link], KentuckyRoads.com: George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge Photo Gallery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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[KY 1631]
New Crittenden Drive Opens Near Louisville International Airport
Posted: 22-Jul-2003 7:30PM CDT

A new four lane section of Crittenden Drive along the western edge of Louisville International Airport opened on Monday. That section of highway was closed in 1997 to allow for expansion of runways at the airport. The new section connects Crittenden Drive to Fern Valley Road south of the airport and provides better access to the UPS facility at the airport.

More information: Courier-Journal: Crittenden Drive stretch opens after rain delays; Four-lane road improves access to the UPS hub (July 22, 2003) [Outside Link] (includes photograph of the new road), KYTC Press Release: Crittenden Drive Reconnected Today [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Budget Woes Slow Road Construction Projects
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 10:55AM CDT

The state's budget problems will prevent the transportation cabinet from completing projects on schedules. In some cases, projects which are already underway may be halted.

Projects cited are the reconstruction of the Gene Snyder Freeway (I-265)/KY 22 interchange, widening of KY 70 in Hopkins County, and a bridge replacement project in Knott County.

More information: Associated Press: Transportation projects will be delayed because of budget woes (Jun. 16, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[I-265]
Deal Reached to Preserve Historic Properties Near Proposed Jefferson County Bridges; Money Allocated and Construction Could Start in Four Years
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 9:11AM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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) [Outside Link], Associated Press: 2 bridges over Ohio could cost $2.5 billion (April 17, 2003) [Outside Link], Associated Press: Two companies vying for Ohio River bridges project (July 7, 2003) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Bridges project to get $9.8 million House panel expected to OK funds Monday (July 18, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
State Sets Up Pothole Hotline; Louisville Spends $500,000 Fixing Potholes
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 8:09AM CDT

The Bowling Green Daily News reports in this March 14, 2003 article [Outside Link] that Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has setup a pothole reporting hotline. The hotline can be reached at 1-800-PATCH-IT (1-800-728-2448). If the reported pothole is on a state-maintained road, the automated system reports it to the appropriate highway district. The City of Bowling Green also has its own pothole report phone number.

The Courier-Journal reports in this March 23, 2003 article [Outside Link] that Louisville Metro expected to spend $500,000 on repairing potholes.

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[Louisville - Jefferson County]
New Aiken Road Bridge to be Built in Jefferson County
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 7:51AM CDT

The state's budge passed in March included money to build a new bridge over Floyds Fork in eastern Jefferson County. The existing one-lane bridge was closed to traffic in July 2002 when inspectors found that trucks were ignoring the 3-ton weight limit and the bridge deck was deteriorating rapidly. The Louisville Metro Government, who owns the bridge, planned to begin work to replace the bridge as soon as possible.

More information: Courier-Journal: Budget has $1.5 million for new Aiken Road bridge (March 12, 2003) [Outside Link] (includes picture of the bridge)

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[I-264]
Shawnee Expressway Work Begins
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 6:56AM CDT

The western leg of I-264 in Louisville between US 60/US 31W and I-64 is known as the Shawnee Expressway. In March, the transportation cabinet began work to rehabilitate the concrete surface of the expressway and improve the expressway's landscaping. No additional lanes will be added. The transportation cabinet launched a web site about the project at www.264info.com [Outside Link].

More information: Courier-Journal: Shawnee Expressway work to begin (Mar. 5, 2003) [Outside Link], KYTC: Shawnee Expressway Project [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Work on Shawnee Expressway to start a few days early (March 19, 2003) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Black subcontractors sought for expressway work (Mar. 8, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Scandal Coverage
Posted: 18-Jul-2003 5:42AM CDT

The transportation cabinet has run into a number of scandals of late. Here is a run down of articles related to the transportation cabinet's woes:

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Federal Budget includes Money for Kentucky Road Projects
Posted: 3-Mar-2003 10:37PM CST

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) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Budget funds projects in area (Feb. 15, 2003) [Outside Link], Herald-Leader: Kentucky projects in federal budget bill (Feb. 15, 2003) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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[The Ohio River]
KYTC Settlement with Whistle-Blower
Posted: 14-Feb-2003 8:44PM CST

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) [Outside Link], Herald-Leader: Bridge-painting lawsuit sealed (Jan. 12, 2003) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: State settled suit for $480,000 (Jan. 24, 2003) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Recent Professional Services Procurement Bulletins
Posted: 31-Dec-2002 8:25AM CST

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

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

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

More information: KYTC Press Release [Outside Link]

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

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

More information: KYTC Press Release [Outside Link]

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[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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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Road Plans for the Oxmoor Farm Development Upset Some Residents
Posted: 6-Sep-2002 10:21PM CDT

Plans for roads in the new Oxmoor Farm development in Jefferson County near Shelbyville Road (US 60) have upset some local residents. The plans call for connections between the new development and the adjacent neighborhoods in Jeffersontown. The article below mentions that urban planners now see connections between neighborhoods as important. It is believed that suburban congestion is a problem because neighborhoods are only connection in a few points; on the other hand older neighborhoods (such as the Old Louisville neighborhood) were laid out on a grid and have many more connections.

More information: Courier-Journal: Suburban road plan upsets some residents (Sept. 1, 2002) [Outside Link]

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[I-264]
Courier-Journal Reviews Louisville-Jefferson County Road Work
Posted: 24-Aug-2002 4:39AM CDT

The Courier-Journal reports on a number current and upcoming road projects in their August 23 edition. Among these projects are:

  • I-264 - A two-year project to reconstruct the western leg of I-264 between I-64 and Dixie Highway. This section of I-264 is known as the Shawnee Expressway. The 7.6-mile $60 million project will include adding two lanes near I-64. Work will begin in the spring.
  • Hurstbourne Parkway (KY 1747) - A project begin in July to extend Hurstbourne Parkway from Bardstown Road to Fern Valley Road.
  • Westport Road (KY 1447) - Westport Road will be widened to 5 lanes from Hubbards Lane to Hurstbourne Parkway. A new interchange will be constructed at I-264.
  • National Turnpike (KY 1020) - Widen to five lanes from Southside Drive to Outer Loop.
  • New Cut Road (KY 1865) - Widen to five lanes from Third Street Road to Outer Loop.
  • Jefferson Boulevard - Construct a four lane extension from McCawley Road north to Poplar Level Road.
  • Gene Snyder Freeway (KY 841/I-265) - Resurface three miles near Bardstown Road.

More information: Courier-Journal: ROAD WORK AHEAD: Watch for headaches (Aug. 23, 2002) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Sentencing of Kennedy Bridge Inspector Delayed
Posted: 24-Aug-2002 4:00AM CDT

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) [Outside Link], Courier-Journal: Bridge inspector threatened to kill foreman, tapes show (Aug. 20, 2002) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
Kennedy Bridge Painting Doomed from the Start
Posted: 12-Aug-2002 7:36PM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has scheduled several planning meetings:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Bridge Inspector 'Hammered' Two Previous Contractors
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 1:35AM CDT

The Courier-Journal reports that a transportation cabinet bridge inspector, Kevin L. Earles, who pleaded guilty to soliciting bribes told contractors that he had "hammered" two previous contractors. The federal government is investigating to see if Earles had solicited other contractors for bribes.

More information: Courier-Journal: Memo: Bridge inspector cited earlier bribes (June 21, 2002) [Outside Link]

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

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

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Two Bridge Contractors Attack Report
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 12:49AM CDT

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) [Outside Link]

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[I-265]
Northwestern Portion of Snyder Freeway Re-opens
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 12:45AM CDT

A section of the Gene Snyder Freeway between I-71 and US 42 that had been closed for two weeks for bridge work and pavement rehabilitation was reopened on May 20th.

More information: Courier-Journal: Repaved Snyder opens between I-71 and U.S. 42 (May 20, 2002) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Planning Agency Says Transportation Funding at Risk
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 12:04AM CDT

The Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency (KIPDA) believes that federal money for transportation projects is at risk because of the state's elimination of Vehicle Emissions Testing in Jefferson County. KIPDA believes that Jefferson County will now be unable to meet EPA guidelines to receive federal transportation money. Critics, including state representative Perry Clark (D-Louisville), say that the report uses faulty data and Jefferson County will still meet the EPA guidelines.

Courier-Journal: Transportation project funds may be at risk (May 5, 2002) [Outside Link]

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[Commonwealth of Kentucky]
Report Encourages Transportation Cabinet Reform
Posted: 31-Jul-2002 12:03AM CDT

The Transportation Cabinet's Reform and Review Committee, which was created last year to identify problems in the cabinet, has submitted a report which finds that the cabinet failed to investigate claims of extortion, oversee the work of a bridge inspector, and monitor a minority hiring program. The committee has suggested the creation of an Inspector General's Office to continue to monitor the work of the transportation cabinet.

More information: Courier-Journal: Reforms urged for Transportation Cabinet (May 10, 2002) [Outside Link], Messenger-Inquirer: Report: Most Transportation problems resolved (May 10, 2002) [Outside Link], 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-65]
Former Bridge Inspector Pleads Guilty to Accepting Bribes
Posted: 15-Apr-2002 4:47PM CDT

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 [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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[The Ohio River]
EPA Fears that 3 of 6 Proposed Ohio River Bridge Routes Would Cause Significant Harm
Posted: 28-Mar-2002 2:30AM CST

"Three of the six proposed routes for an east-end bridge crossing the Ohio River would significantly harm wetlands, endangered animals, creeks and neighborhoods, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says."

Full Article: EPA fears 3 proposed bridge routes harmful. The Courier-Journal. (March 27, 2002) [Outside Link]

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[The Ohio River]
What Goes Into a $22.1 Million Environment Impact Study
Posted: 25-Mar-2002 4:01PM CST

This Mar. 25, 2002 article [Outside Link] from the Courier-Journal covers some of the things that went into the $22.1 Million study of the environmental impact of the proposed Ohio River bridges. The study and its technical reports stand over eight feet tall. Among the things that went into the report are studies of bats conducted by gluing radio transmitters onto them, dredging the Ohio River to look for mussels, cataloging and analyzing historic properties, and recording noise levels a 178 points. Of course for all of the detail that went into the report, anti-bridge groups claim that it fails to accurately represent the environment of the area.

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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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[I-265]
City of Prospect Dislikes All Eastern Bridge Alternatives
Posted: 10-Jan-2002 5:55PM CST

This Courier-Journal article [Outside Link] reports that the city of Prospect dislikes all alternatives for an eastern bridge over the Ohio River in Jefferson County. Their favorite of the alternatives, however, is the alternative that bypasses Prospect. The Prospect city council claims that several proposed routes would make sections of the town uninhabitable.

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[KY 1747]
Hurstbourne Parkway Extension Construction to Begin in May
Posted: 10-Jan-2002 5:50PM CST

The Courier-Journal reports in this article [Outside Link] that a 3.3 extension to Hurstbourne Parkway will begin in May. The road will be extended from Bardstown Road to Fern Valley Road in Jefferson County. A gas pipeline has to be moved to allow for construction.

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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]
Bridge Inspector Indicted
Posted: 5-Dec-2001 6:50AM CST

According to this Courier-Journal article [Outside Link] 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.

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[I-264]
KYTC Reviews Sound Barrier Policy
Posted: 26-Nov-2001 9:42PM CST

This article [Outside Link] (no longer online) from MyInKy.com reports that the KYTC is reviewing its policy on placing sound barriers. The KYTC has a policy against erecting sound barriers after a road project is completed; however, requests by Upper Highlands Neighborhood Association's along Louisville's Watterson Expressway have them reviewing the policy. A study funded by the Louisville Board of Aldermen found that the noise is so loud that conversations could not be carried on outside.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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[I-265]
Report on New Louisville Bridges Expected Soon
Posted: 7-Sep-2001 3:14PM CDT

The Courier-Journal reports in this Sept. 7, 2001 article [Outside Link] 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 [Outside Link].

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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[I-64]
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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