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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

[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.


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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)


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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]


[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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