ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (Jun. 20, 2023) – As part of a larger theme to improve mobility on the west side of Bardstown and to reduce congestion near the historic downtown district, the intersection of US 62 and US 31E (West Stephen Foster Avenue and Cathedral Manor) will be rebuilt as part of a new roundabout project. Options for improving the intersection were weighted by heavy consideration of potential impacts to adjacent properties and structures. Combined with consideration of utility infrastructure in the vicinity, a roundabout provides the best solution.

A contract was awarded May 30th to Louisville Paving Company, Inc. in the amount of $3.595 million for the project. A pre-construction meeting with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), impacted utility companies and the contractor was held last week to determine a work timeline. There will be a closure of the US 31E side of the intersection beginning June 30th, lasting through July 30th. The US 62 movement will remain open. Access will be maintained to local entrances. This will facilitate quicker work of the highest impacting construction phase during summer break for local schools. Once that portion of the intersection reopens, work will continue through the end of November and allow for minimal traffic impacts during winter. Construction will resume in mid-March of 2024 and must be complete by August 1st of 2024.

Signs have been posted to alert motorists and the local community of upcoming work. Commercial/large vehicle operators are strongly advised to pay attention to signage along northbound US 31E with limited opportunity to turn around if detours are missed or ignored. A detour plan for the closure has been devised using input from local stakeholders and is attached to this press release. An overview map of the project is also included.

This project is one of many improvements featuring roundabouts for solutions at intersections with similar challenges throughout Kentucky. Along with the primary goal of improved safety, cost effectiveness and travel efficiency continue to be driving forces of these projects. Future intersection considerations will also include modification of traffic patterns at some traffic circles, which are commonly in use at town squares but are not exactly the same as roundabouts.

Construction updates as related to traffic impacts will be provided to local media outlets and posted on KYTC District 4 social media via Facebook and Twitter (@kytcdistrict4).